A Record of Service
Otis has a proven track record of service to his community, working to effect positive change through youth development and policy advocacy.
While studying at SIU-C, Otis coordinated a mentoring program called Young Forever on the East side of Carbondale with his fraternity. The mission of the program was to level the playing field for students from low socio-economic communities.
Observing firsthand the transformative impact his work had on mentees in the program, Otis was propelled to join Teach For America as a science teacher at CICS Longwood Middle School. But Otis didn’t enter the classroom just to teach science. He was motivated to impact young black boys outside the four walls of the school building.
Otis brought the Culturally Helping and Making Positive Success (CHAMPS) male mentoring initiative to his middle school. Through this program, Otis was able to empower, educate, and expose young Black men, and facilitate workshops on metacognition, political strategies, and de-escalation skills.
As a grassroots organizer at the Workers Center For Racial Justice, Otis leads policy campaigns to advance workers rights, access to childcare, police reform, and opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals. He also serves as the community representative on the local school council board at Englewood STEM High School.
Upcoming Events
Drop offs by appointment7613 S Coles Ave, 3BWhether it's last year's dress or purse, or food you won't use, gather the pieces you no longer love, and join us for a stylish (yet thrifty) clothing and food drive. Please pre-wash or pre-clean items. Contact LaJuanna at 219-344-8246 to schedule a drop off.