We recently sat down with Kisha Webster, Founder of the Greenmount West Community Center (GWCC), a community center whose mission is to empower the youth of the Grrenmount West neighborhood, and their families through sustainable programming and innovative partnerships in a safe, community art space. Kisha is also a host to a Kierra Curtis, one of our Public Allies. Read more about her work at the GWCC, and being a host for a Public Ally!
Baltimore Corps: How did you become involved with Public Allies?
Kisha Webster: I became involved with Public Allies after hosting Baltimore Corps Fellow, Nicholas Mitchel I found that Public Allies focus on young -adult leadership spoke to me personally & professionally because of my commitment to mentor & coach young adults. Additionally; the mission of Public Allies stresses the importance of "creating a just & equitable society through diverse leadership" which I believe is paramount in combating the current climate in the United States.
BC: How has having a Public Ally (Kierra) expanded capacity/strengthen the work at Greenmount West Community Center Foundation?
KW: Having Kierra Curtis as a Public Ally has strengthened the work of the Greenmount West Community Center Foundation because she provides a fresh outlook of why our organization must continue to create opportunities for young adults to lead and follow in a manner which enhances them personally and professionally. Kierra has represented our organization locally and nationally- these moments have positively stretched her to become a stronger public speaker & leader. She has attained new skills in the areas of grant writing, podcasting and video documentary. Kierra's skills got stronger, and we became stronger as an organization! Kierra's role as a Public Ally helped to validate the mission & vision of the Greenmount West Community Center Foundation which is to create boundless opportunities for youth and families to grow.
Kisha Webster, Founder of The Greenmount West Community Center Foundation
BC: Why should other organizations consider bringing on a Public Ally?
KW: If other organizations; are truly invested in our city, our state, our country, young people, individuals of diverse backgrounds(economic, social, education, gender expression, etc.) and true equitable opportunities then they should consider bringing on a Public Ally.
To become a host to a Public Ally click here.
To read more about the Greenmount West Community Center click here