06/03/2026
RAGV 2026 Team NCO Spotlight:
Candice - Board Member & Volunteer (left, both photos)
Participating in the Race Against Gun Violence is more than just a run for me; it is a vital extension of my life’s work. As an educator who has been committed to supporting children for over 25 years, I have seen firsthand how much a young person’s environment dictates their ability to thrive. Adolescence is a naturally vulnerable stage defined by identity development and career exploration, but for some of our youth in Bronzeville, these milestones are often overshadowed by the weight of trauma.
The statistics are sobering: nearly every middle and high school student in this community has witnessed or personally experienced violence. When academic pressures and social development are compounded by the hyper-vigilance required to navigate gun violence and systemic oppression, the need for intentional intervention becomes a matter of urgency.
I am racing in support of New Community Outreach because they provide the safe space our children need. Their commitment to violence prevention and trauma care doesn't just offer a temporary refuge; it equips students with the tools to break cycles of violence and envision a future defined by opportunity rather than fear.
On a personal level, I am running alongside my 13-year-old daughter. I want to inspire her to understand that we can not be passive observers in our community. By supporting New Community Outreach, we are investing in the mental and physical health of Bronzeville’s youth, ensuring that every child has a safe space to grow, lead, and succeed.
Donate now: Runsignup.com/NCO