Photos by: Keystone Productions
Baltimore, MD — They were previously identified as being among Baltimoreans at the greatest risk for violence engagement.
But on Saturday, July 25, Youth Advocate Programs (YAP®) Inc.’s Group Violence Reduction Strategy (GVRS) participants gathered for a celebratory brunch in their honor.
The keynote speaker was Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott, who credited GVRS for being a major contributor to the city’s 60% reduction in violence since his administration launched the initiative four years ago.
“Baltimore is leading the way. This is about looking at public safety the right way,” Mayor Scott said.
The Avenue Kitchen & Bar event also honored community members whose support helps YAP strengthen and sustain program outcomes.
YAP is one of the city’s two nonprofit GVRS community services providers. YAP GVRS participants are men, women and youth who are group affiliated, formerly incarcerated, individuals recently losing a loved one to gun violence, and others identified as being at the greatest risk for violence engagement.
YAP-assigned referrals include males ages 25 and older; women of all ages; and male and female youth, ages 12-15. Guided by our No Reject, No Eject policy, we also serve some males ages 16-24.
By the beginning of July, YAP served 284 of Baltimore’s highest risk individuals, 77 of whom are currently enrolled. YAP Outreach Workers and Life Coaches work with participants on average about a year. But every case is different.
YAP President and CEO Gary Ivory, National Board Chair Board Chair Clarence Campbell, and Board Member Jason Szanyi, joined the festivities, along with Chief of Policy and Governmental Affairs Tim Ragland, Regional Director Sean Robinson, and Executive Vice President Dr. LaVeisha Cummings. YAP was joined by Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (MONSE) Chief of Staff Chanel White, MONSE’s GVRS team, and community partners at the event.
“At the core of all our programs are principles of our signature, evidence-based, family-centered, accountability-focused individual and family wraparound services model,” Ivory said. “Once we earn the trust of those referred to us, we engage them in safety planning and intensive strength-based case management that includes connecting participants and their families to individualized educational, economic and emotional needs tools and community resources that lead to stability.”
YAP is a 50-year-old national nonprofit that gives communities across the U.S. safer, more effective, and less costly alternatives to youth incarceration and residential placements. The nonprofit applies principles of its youth justice and child welfare model in its violence reduction work in Baltimore and other cities.
Invited guests included current and former program participants and their families along with YAP outreach workers and life coaches, many of whom live in or are from the neighborhoods and share life experiences of those they serve. Participants’ success stories included securing employment, moving from homelessness to stable housing, rekindling family relationships, and achieving other personal milestones linked to reducing community violence.
YAP President and CEO Gary Ivory, National Board Chair Board Chair and Baltimore native, Clarence Campbell, and Board Member Jason Szanyi, joined the festivities, along with Chief of Policy and Governmental Affairs Tim Ragland; Regional Director Sean Robinson and Executive Vice President Dr. LaVeisha Cummings.
YAP GVRS Life Coaches and Outreach workers wrote and presented success stories of the participants with which they work.
The following current and former YAP GVRS participants were recognized by their Assistant Director Arnitra Smith and her team of GVRS Life Coaches and Outreach Workers, Andre Bell, Elisha Johnson, Lamont Keaton, and Frankie Jones:
Robert
Mr. Robert began participating in the YAP GVRS Program in 2026. At the start, he was facing several life challenges and difficult circumstances. However, in the short time he said he has received valuable support and credits YAP for helping him recover from a severe leg injury. He developed a plan to address his child support obligations, and he’s accepting guidance on his employment journey. Mr. Robert says the encouragement and support is helping him stay motivated, remain focused on his goals, and build confidence in his ability to improve his situation. As a result, he says he feels more hopeful about achieving stability and creating a better future for himself and his family.
“M” (could not be present for safety reasons)
M started with the YAP GVRS Program in 2025 during a difficult period in his life when he felt he had very few available options. He credits his Life Coach for transparently sharing his own personal experiences and life journey lessons. M said that openness helped him feel comfortable enough to open up about his circumstances and challenges without fear of judgment. M says he is grateful for the support and guidance provided throughout the process of relocating to a safer environment and beginning a new chapter in his life. M said the encouragement, understanding, and consistent support have helped him move forward with confidence and given me hope for a more positive future.
Marcus V.
Marcus V. has exemplified determination, perseverance, and positive growth. When his Life Coach began working with him in March, he did so with an open mind and a listening ear, committed to learning about his goals, strengths, and needs, not from the case notes, but directly from him. Marcus approached the process with openness and a willingness to move forward. His major goal was to remain on a positive path and get a job. He had more than 15 years of work experience, but needed a strong, professional resume. Business Development Coordinator, Ms. E. Young, stepped up to help, and he developed a strong resume. He applied for several jobs and is now gainfully employed as a Port of Baltimore Security guard in Highlandtown. With accountability, hard work, dedication, and resilience Mr. V. knows firsthand that mistakes of his past do not define his future.
Darron
Since entering the program in 2022, Darron’s journey has been a roller coaster with both highs and lows. He has faced challenges with decision-making and managing his temper. In the beginning, Darron was not always on the same page as his Life Coach and did not fully see that through the program, he could pursue greatness and reach his full potential. Over time, however, Darron has grown tremendously. He has developed into a fine young man and a wonderful father. He has demonstrated resilience, determination, and a strong commitment to improving his life. Darron successfully built his own landscaping company from the ground up. Equipped with multiple lawn mowers, weed whackers, and other professional equipment, he has a growing business. He has also launched his own clothing brand, which is also experiencing success. Through hard work, perseverance, and personal growth, Darron now possesses the tools necessary to be successful in this thing we call life.
Marcus P.
Marcus is one of the GVRS program’s youth participants. He has grown tremendously right before the eyes of the YAP Program. When Marcus first entered the program, he was on probation and faced several challenges within his home environment. He struggled with maintaining consistent contact with his life coaches and had difficulty following the rules. At the same time, Marcus remained determined to improve his situation. He continued attending school, successfully completed his probation requirements, and worked hard to stay out of trouble. Throughout his journey, he has demonstrated resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Today, Marcus is actively and aggressively seeking employment while continuing to make positive choices for his future. His commitment to personal growth and accountability has been evident in every aspect of his life. Since joining the YAP Program, Marcus has made a complete 360-degree transformation for the better. He has matured into a responsible young man who understands the importance of making positive decisions and staying focused on his goals.
Mr. James
Although he faced repeated setbacks in his search for jobs during the hiring process due to background checks, Mr. James refused to give up. After continuing to submit applications despite feeling discouraged, he successfully secured employment. In addition to holding down a job, Mr. James is pursuing his entrepreneurial goals through his clothing line, which has already begun generating income. And he recently shared with his Life Coach that he is interested in learning wholesale real estate. Coincidentally, his Life Coach has experience wholesaling properties and has been able to provide guidance and encouragement. Through his participation in YAP and with guidance from his Life Coach, Mr. James has remained focused on personal and professional growth. His commitment and perseverance recently led to his selection for a position in the construction field. He is dedicated to creating a stable and successful future for himself and his family.
The following current and former participants were recognized by YAP GVRS Assistant Director Crystal Evans’ team of GVRS Life Coaches and Outreach Workers, Jimmy Little, Tim Schriver, Sterling Hering, Daryll Still, and Danyae Morgan.
Sharday
When she first joined the program, Sharday was leaving jail and beginning a new chapter. No more wrong place at the wrong time for her. She was determined to move forward and embrace every opportunity for growth. Since entering the program, she has earned her driver’s license and secured stable employment earning more than $50,000 a year. She’s staying out of trouble and working to have her record expunged. Reflecting on her YAP journey, she shared, “It has gotten me moving in the right direction.”
Nicholas
Nicholas started the program several years ago after facing complex challenges. Prior to his GVRS involvement, he spent 4 years surviving on the streets, selling drugs, and engaging in activities that ultimately led to his incarceration on handgun possession charges. When he came home, he received the letter from the Office of Mayor Brandom M. Scott referring him to YAP. At the time, he was struggling with a debilitating and progressive eye disease called keratoconus, which results in blurred and distorted vision. The specialized contact lens needed to manage his condition cost more than $1,000. Through the program, he was connected to the appropriate healthcare resources and coverage needed to obtain the lens. This life-changing assistance significantly improved his vision and quality of life. As a result, Nicholas was able to obtain his driver’s license and secure professional employment as a driver with AMPORT, an opportunity he never imagined possible. He’s now attending certification classes to further his career opportunities and recently achieved a major milestone. He moved into his first home. Nicholas credits YAP with helping him overcome significant barriers. His journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of second chances.
Jamal
After experiencing the tragic loss of his cousin and the near-fatal shooting of his brother, Jamal heard from the office of Mayor Brandon M. Scott. He was being referred to YAP for services, including being relocated for safety. Jamal came to the program angry, unmotivated, and struggling with grief. With guidance and support, Jamal began seeing light at the end of the tunnel. He obtained his driver’s license, established an LLC for his moving and hauling business, and secured stable housing. Today, he continues to maintain his apartment, and he remains focused on building a positive future with no desire to return to the streets or seek revenge. Jamal expressed his deep gratitude to Mayor Scott, the GVRS program, and his Life Coach for helping him transform his life and create a path toward long-term stability and success.
Jerrell
Jerrell came to YAP after a close friend of his was shot. At first, he thought it was just like any other program. But he said with the YAP Outreach Team, he recognized sincerity and a genuine commitment to helping him succeed. So he gave YAP a chance. He said his objective is providing long-term stability for himself and his family. His career goals are obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License or HVAC certification. Through YAP’s support, Jerrell got a foot in the career door — employment with the Port that he’s held for two years now. He’s off the streets and focused on building a better future, developing important life skills such as discipline, punctuality, money management, and professionalism. He’s working towards becoming a longshoreman. Jerrell is an outstanding father to a 17-year-old. By example, he demonstrates leadership, being your own person, and avoiding negative influences, making good decisions, resisting peer pressure, and staying away from drugs and other harmful behaviors.
Charles
Just a few years ago, Charles was heading down a path that could have led to incarceration and a future filled with missed opportunities. But Charles’ story did not end there. Charles received a letter from Mayor Brandon M. Scott. It was more than just a piece of paper. It was an invitation. It was an opportunity. It was a message that said, “We believe you can choose a different path.” Through YAP, Charles connected with a Life Coach who is also a former football coach. That mattered because Charles needed someone who knew firsthand the meaning of meeting someone where they are. Charles began to attend school regularly and started seeing himself differently. YAP made it possible for him to have a tuxedo so he could fully experience high school and attend his junior prom with confidence and pride. Charles has always had a passion for barbering. Through YAP, he met local barbershop owners and professionals who could help him envision a future in the industry. Charles is expected to complete probation next month and begin his senior year. After that, he’ll be off to barber school paving the path for his dream to be a master barber. The big plan is to own and operate his own barbershop and to create opportunities for others in his community.
Tonka
Tonka takes accountability for the mistakes in his past. Mistakes that included bank robbery convictions resulting in six and a half years in prison. He re-entered society determined to change the direction of his life. Following his release, the Mayor’s Office offered Tonka a second chance. On parole, he knew he had to find stable employment, make an honest living, and become a law-abiding citizen. He says the support he received through YAP has been lifechanging. He often says YAP treats him like family. He appreciates the value of participating in cultural events and outings but is especially grateful for the positive relationships he has built along the way. Tonka has maintained steady employment at a furniture warehouse and remains committed to living a productive and positive life. His priority is raising his son to become a responsible, respectful, and successful young man. Known for his magnetic big smile, Tonka aspires to work with youth and become a positive role model for others.
Taylor
Taylor became involved with YAP after surviving a traumatic shooting at her home. She was sitting on her front porch with her cousin. Taylor was shot twice in her arm, and the home was riddled with bullets. In shock and pain, Taylor wrapped her injured arm and screamed for someone to call her mother. Fortunately, the Baltimore Police Department and Baltimore City Fire Department responded immediately. Instead of sending a letter, Mayor Brandon M. Scott personally visited Taylor’s home and spoke with her family. They were immediately placed in relocation services for their safety. For a long time, any loud popping noise triggered fear and anxiety in Taylor. The experience changed her family. Plus Taylor was in and out of the hospital. To this day, one bullet remains lodged in her arm. Taylor came to YAP with the goal of healing, avoiding retaliation, and moving forward with her life. During court proceedings, she witnessed the suspect cry and express remorse. Rather than holding onto anger, Taylor felt compassion, chose forgiveness, and sincerely hopes he makes better choices for his future. Taylor participated in the nonprofit’s YAPWORKS job readiness program, where she learned valuable skills, including responsibility, punctuality, and professionalism. And she got a job as a restaurant hostess where she learned patience, time management skills, and the importance of teamwork. She only left to focus on finishing high school in August and pursuing Pharmacy Technician training. Taylor is grateful to Mayor Scott, YAP, and the entire GVRS Program for supporting her and her family during one of the most difficult periods of her life.
Community partner honorees recognized by the YAP GVRS team for their support include:
GVRS Leaders:
- Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement Director Stefanie Mavronis
- Chief of the Group Violence Reduction Strategy Mr. Terence Nash
- Group Violence Reduction Strategy Service Partnership Manager Dr. Raymond Greene-Joyner
- Group Violence Reduction Strategy Community Partnership Manager Mr. Reginald Williams
- Group Violence Reduction Strategy Community Partnership Manager Mr. Marvin McKenstry
- And Group Violence Reduction Strategy Service Partnership Manager Ms. Bernice Walker
- GVRS Community Moral Voices
- Joyous Jones
- Pastor Derrick Dewitt, Sr.
- Pastor Tony Murray
- Pastor Lavern Murray
- Elder Clyde Harris
- Crystal Parker
- Kin Brown-Lane
- Earl Young
PEACE Team Partners
- Eric Brown
- Angola Brady
- Avon McCray
Baltimore GVRS Police Department and Maryland Parole and Probation Partners:
- Baltimore Police Department GVRS Coordinator Laurieann Beard
- Sergeant Jonathan Garrett
- Detective Sheila Raheem
- Detective Odis Daniels
- Detective Diamond Sykes
- Detective Quinton Perry
- Detective Bernadette Grimes
- Community Partnerships Neighborhood Coordinator Cecilia Alvarez
- Maryland Public Safety and Correctional Services Senior Agent Candice Thompson
Workforce development and employment partners
- Shannon Queen with the Baltimore Port Authority
- Phoebe Lestebe with Clean Corp
- Deweta Logan, owner of 1810 Catering Restaurant
Malik, a former participant, who was recognized at a November 2024 celebration encouraged the honorees not to give up and shared an update on his life.
“I started my own business, a cleaning company called Kody Solution, and have a contract to clean three YAP offices,” he said
If you’re looking to support YAP’s work, I encourage you to learn more about them at YAPInc.org.
The honorees got addition encouragement from Moral Voices, Pastor Tony Murray from Doxa Ministries as part of his invocation.
