On Thursday, February 12, the White House hosted the My Brother’s Keeper Community Challenge National Convening. The Convening brought together representatives from local communities across the country that accepted the Community Challenge and hosted local action summits so they can inspire and learn from each other. Among the attendees were Gary natives, Mary Cossey, Director of Constituent Services for the City of Gary, and Eddie Melton, Manager of Governmental and Community Relations for NIPSCO. Opening remarks were delivered by Senior Advisor to President Obama, Valerie Jarrett, and Attorney General Eric Holder.
President Obama launched My Brother’s Keeper to address persistent opportunity gaps faced by boys and young men of color and to help ensure that all young people can reach their full potential.
“It was an honor not only to be at the White House, but to meet with some of the most forward thinking, innovative minds in the country,” said Cossey. “I can’t wait to bring the ideas back to Gary to implement in our community.”
Last November, the City of Gary along with a host of local organizations hosted their first My Brother’s Keeper Summit. The findings from these summits that were held nationwide were discussed at the White House and next steps were developed.
“This is the beginning of something great,” said Melton. “We are armed with information that could potentially change the lives of countless young males. All they need is the opportunity, and we are going to give it to them with the help of My Brother’s Keeper.”
To learn more about the Convening click here