ORGANIZATON OVERVIEW
Created in 2005, Operation Making a Difference offers a 120-day minimun Back to Basics intensive mentoring program for at-risk youth and their families that is geared towards helping participants become productive citizens at school, at home, and in society.
Youth between the ages of 9 and 18, some with learning difficulties and/or behavioral issues, meet twice a week with parents and/or legal guardians attending one session. Sessions topics taught by staff, local mentors, and community partners include mental health, peer pressure, conflict resolution, sexual health, drug awareness/prevention, and self-discipline. In addition, tutoring and employment placement options are offered. Participants also enjoy extracurricular activities, volunteer opportunities, and an optional Bible study as part of the program.
Operation Making a Difference believes that application of fundamentals will enhance not only the individual, but also the community and society at-large.
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ORGANIZATION GOALS
- Establish a network of businesses, agencies and organizations that will support and service those in need
- Improve access to health and social services
- Develop resources to assist where services are not available
- Organize community representation to create solutions to problems for youth and adults
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With God ALL things are possible...
~Matthew 19:26
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As a former president of the Youth Service Council, a former member of the Juvenile Conference Committee and a member of The Children's Policy Council, Keith A. Reed, Excecutive Director of Operation Making a Difference, Inc., has over 30 years experience working with youth. He is also a Retired Deputy Sheriff of 25 years.
A formal member of the Advisory Board for the LAUNCH Program, as well as serving on the Dean's Advisory Board Committee for Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University School of Arts and Sciences, he is committed to mentoring youth and facilitating the strengthening of families.
A Desert Storm Army veteran, Mr. Reed is certified in Gang Resistant Education and Trainer (G.R.E.A.T); was awarded a certificate of Understanding and Teaching of Young Adults, Appalachian State University. he was selected as an honor member to Cambridge Who's Who's and attended the Virtual Alabama School Safety Summit. It is no wonder that the Alabama Democratic Conference Community Service Award went to Mr. Reed. He is the past Vice-President for the Alabama Gang Investigators Association (AGIA).
Mr. Reed believes that basic family principles and effective communication are the keys to strong families. As it has been stated, Mr. Reed has a calling and that call is to guide the youth of today toward the path of tomorrow.
Mr. Reed is available for Public Speaking Engagements as well as trainings and workshops in the following areas:
- Social Awareness Conferences
- Church Support Services
- School Prevention Programs
- Small Group Setting Instruction
- Classes for Parents
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Board of Directors
Cleophus Adkins
Special Investigator, AL DOLBPC
State of AL
Meteasa L. Collins Henderson
Assistant District Attorney
Jackson County, AL
Dr. Cary Grant
Adjunct Instructor (AAMU)
Normal, AL
Dr. Theresa J. Gurley, Psy.D.
Clinical Psychologist, LPC-S
Huntsville, AL
Richetta A. Wilkerson
Logistics Management Specialist (ret.)
Redstone Arsenal, AL
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