The mission of the CHNGE project is to prevent gang involvement and violence by fostering collaboration between law enforcement, schools, and the community. Through data-driven strategies, education, and direct intervention, we aim to provide youth with the tools, resources, and opportunities to choose positive paths, ensuring a safer future for all.

The CHNGE (Creating Healthy Alternatives Neutralizing Gangs) initiative, spearheaded by the JESTES Coalition, is dedicated to preventing gang involvement and empowering youth in Pelham, Camilla, and Mitchell County, Georgia, through a collaborative approach that includes community engagement and education.

  • Dr. B. Keith Jones
    Role: Program Manager, CHNGE Initiative
    Email: bkj@bkeithjonesconsulting.org
    Phone: (229) 221-3771

    • Dr. Jones coordinates the CHNGE program, working with local organizations, educational advocates, and law enforcement to reduce gang activity and support youth development.

Parker Educational Advocacy

  • Michael Parker
    Role: Lead Facilitator, Cognitive Programs
    Phone: (229) 403-0790

    • Michael Parker facilitates cognitive programming, focusing on decision-making and life skills for youth, as part of the CHNGE initiative.

  • Amelia M. Parker
    Role: Literacy Support Facilitator and Evaluator

    • Amelia Parker provides literacy support, conducts program evaluations, and facilitates referrals for youth, aiding their educational development within the CHNGE program.

Community Relations Leadership

  • Dr. Charles E. Gilbert
    Role: Faith-Based Community Liaison
    Phone: (229) 328-6045

    • Dr. Gilbert strengthens community-wide engagement through faith-based initiatives, supporting CHNGE’s outreach goals.

Additional Key Personnel

  • Felisha Draggs
    Role: Community Outreach Coordinator
    Email: knowyourworth004@gmail.com

    • Felisha Draggs works to enhance community engagement by promoting safe alternatives to gang involvement and supporting local youth.

  • LaTrese Schofield
    Role: Training Coordinator, Cognitive Behavioral Programming

    • LaTrese Schofield manages training for mentors and volunteers, with a focus on trauma-informed care and adolescent development.

  • Donna Tebought
    Role: Strategic Implementation Consultant

    • Donna Tebought oversees program implementation, supporting CHNGE’s long-term impact through strategic planning.

Law Enforcement Leadership

  • Chief Nealie McCormick
    Role: Chief, Pelham Police Department
    Email: pelhampd@cityofpelhamga.com

    • Chief McCormick coordinates crime prevention and youth outreach, collaborating closely with the CHNGE program.

  • Chief Johnny Hendricks
    Role: Chief, Camilla Police Department

    • Chief Hendricks supports community policing and youth intervention as part of the CHNGE initiative.

  • Sheriff W.E. Bozeman
    Role: Sheriff, Mitchell County Sheriff’s Office

    • Sheriff Bozeman collaborates on CHNGE’s public safety and juvenile justice objectives.

  • Captain Roscoe Jones
    Role: Community Relations Liaison, Mitchell County Sheriff’s Office

    • Captain Jones connects youth and families to CHNGE resources, fostering community engagement.

  • Officer Zachary Fallin
    Role: Crime Prevention Officer, Pelham City Schools

    • Officer Fallin leads crime prevention and youth outreach in Pelham City Schools.

  • Deputy Martin Barnes
    Role: School Resource Officer, Mitchell County Schools

    • Deputy Barnes supports at-risk youth identification and provides access to CHNGE services within Mitchell County Schools.

Connect with Us

For more information or to get involved, reach out to us at chnge@jestes4u.org or call (229) 221-3771. We are committed to supporting youth and building a safer community in Pelham and Mitchell County.

CHNGE IN ACTION KEY PARTNERS