News
February 16th, 2024
Our Visit to Black Hands Universal, A Site Visit Story
On a crisp sunny, yet snowy, afternoon, our CEO, two board members, and a volunteer joined me for a site visit to Black Hands Universal, an innovative organization dedicated to empowering the community through rehabilitation rather than punishment, as well as creating and maintaining a platform for the disenfranchised. The purpose of this site visit is not only to gain insight into the organization’s mission and operations, but to bridge the knowledge gap and build trust within our community.
Upon arrival, we were welcomed by the founder, “Mr. Legendary” himself, Harry O’ Smith. The visit began with a comprehensive overview of Black Hands Universal’s diverse programming as he took us through a historical journey. From educational initiatives to community outreach projects, the organization demonstrated a commitment to addressing various needs within the community. We were particularly impressed by the range of programs aimed at fostering personal and professional development. Harry talked about their GED program and their pre-apprenticeship program which partners with OSHA to teach basic safety and health information to entry-level workers in construction. We could not keep up with the numerous programs he talked about! He emphasized the importance of forging strategic partnerships with local businesses, educational institutions, and government agencies…as a connector. We gained valuable insights into how collaboration played a pivotal role in expanding the reach and effectiveness of the organization’s initiatives.
A key component of the visit was our question-and-answer session, where we had the chance to seek clarification on various aspects of Black Hands Universal’s operations. From financial sustainability to scalability of programs, Harry provided transparent and insightful responses, highlighting his dedication to accountability and transparency.
We left with an appreciation for the impactful work being carried out by Black Hands Universal. The experience affirmed Black Hands Universal as a beacon of positive change for our community and a much-needed resource. I have heard stories about community members who have directly benefited from Black Hands Universal’s programs. These poignant stories underscored the organization’s positive impact on individual lives and highlighted its role as a catalyst for positive change within our community. I was so happy that we did this site visit!
Where to next…The Sciencenter! To RSVP for this and other visits, click HERE. If you would like to schedule a site visit, please contact Gloria at gcoicou@cftompkin.org.