Meet The Team
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Jacqueline
CEO/Director
Meet Mrs. Jacqueline Collier. In 2010 Garland Scott, William Gardner and Jacqueline Collier looked to establish a safe haven to help ex-offenders and those looking to change their life's direction. The goal was to provide a place that did not resemble where they had been for the past 5 - 20 years. Thus, Noah's Ark was built - a place where people can feel safe and access much-needed resources and education.
If you think Noah's Ark only plays a part in educating the people it serves, think again. Jaqueline notes that her work with Noah’s Ark has forced her to take a deep look within. This self-introspection helped her realize that each of us is unique and valuable in our own way. As a result, she’s learned to be a better listener and manager. Ms. Collier prides herself on knowing the organization serves as a staple for those who man have deemed unable to be rehabilitated. Her satisfaction is fueled by her ability to lend a helping hand to those that society has otherwise written off. There’s no question that this is hard work but what Jacqueline loves about her role at Noah’s Ark is seeing the plan work. This happens most when her staff comes in from a long day of dealing with the community and they are excited about how well they were received and the effects they had on the community. It is an indescribable joy to be able to continue the work that she and her team are doing to change the social norms out East.
Monique
Program Manager
Meet Monique Buchanan. Monique came to Noah’s Ark looking to make a change in the Jacksonville community by helping to reduce violence. Her hope is that her passion, supported by the efforts of the team, can not only make a difference in the lives of those she meets but make the community a better place to live. Ms. Buchanan notes that seeing people with a renewed chance at life, despite their past, is one of the greatest rewards. During her time at Noah’s Ark, she's found the one constant in this work -- there are a lot of hurt people; mentally, emotionally and economically.
She recognizes that the fight against violence is an uphill battle and to successfully conquer it, it takes partnerships with other like-minded organizations. Ms. Buchanan knows that in order to cure violence, you must get to the root of the problem first. There is no one-size-fits-all method. Every individual who is a victim or has committed a crime needs specialized resources and help, and Monique is glad she is part of a team that offers just that. If you ask her what she’s passionate about, she’ll tell you, “changing lives and motivating people by helping show their purpose and value. There isn't much that Monique doesn’t like about her work at Noah’s Ark. But she prides herself on working with her team, participants, community, and building partner relationships. One of her biggest joys is seeing young people achieve their goals while staying out of trouble thanks to the influence of Noah’s Ark.
Thomas was drawn to Noah’s Ark with the hope of being an advocate of change. His yearning to end the senseless shooting and killings in his community piqued his interest. His dedication to the work to cure violence was fueled by his dedication to the very people who were in the same predicament he once was in. Without question, there is so much to learn when dealing with a community with a history of hurt. Since working with Noah’s Ark Thomas has not only learned the importance of mediating conflict but prides himself on perfecting the skill daily. He’s passionate about helping community youth turn from a life of crime by helping them find who they are. He finds solace in having the opportunity to help change lives by encouraging them to be better than they were yesterday. The most rewarding part of his job is interacting with a participant when they realize that it is possible to change while helping them focus on self-improvement.
Thomas J.
Outreach Supervisor
Thomas was drawn to Noah’s Ark with the hope of being an advocate of change. His yearning to end the senseless shooting and killings in his community piqued his interest. His dedication to the work to cure violence was fueled by his dedication to the very people who were in the same predicament he once was in. Without question, there is so much to learn when dealing with a community with a history of hurt. Since working with Noah’s Ark Thomas has not only learned the importance of mediating conflict but prides himself on perfecting the skill daily. He’s passionate about helping community youth turn from a life of crime by helping them find who they are. He finds solace in having the opportunity to help change lives by encouraging them to be better than they were yesterday. The most rewarding part of his job is interacting with a participant when they realize that it is possible to change while helping them focus on self-improvement.
Toddrien C.
Violence Interrupter
Meet Todd. While some people are chosen to do this work, others are called. For Todd, some saw his calling and thought he’d be a great fit for Noah’s Ark. Although he wasn't quite sure what he was getting himself into, he quickly realized that he was already doing the work. Working to help cure violence and share peaceful alternatives in the Jacksonville community is a big part of the job. But while helping others, Todd learned there were lessons for him as well. He attributes his improved social skills, budgeting, and parenting to the work he does with Noah’s Ark. He prides himself on now being better equipped to handle any situation on a professional level. What he likes most about working at Noah’s Ark is the success the team witnesses when they work together. Todd is passionate about family, life, and human rights.
Lamarco W.
Violence Interrupter
Meet Lamarco. If you ask him his story on how he came to Noah’s Ark, he’d tell you, “divine intervention. While there are so many things to learn and build upon as an employee of Noah’s Ark, Lamarco admits during his time with the organization, he has honed skills that have made him a better professional. He is passionate about family and work, which we all can agree to go hand and hand in this line of work. Lamarco enjoys the unpredictability of his job but says he enjoys the community events the most.
Meet Biko. The need for change is what brought him to Noah’s Ark. He was tired of witnessing the senseless shootings and murders happening in his neighborhood. Since joining the team, he’s learned things don’t change, people do. This is why he dedicates his time to not only influencing positive change but helping to rebuild the community. Biko enjoys meeting so many new people in the community thanks to his line of work. He admits that while shooting responses are never a happy time, he appreciates the involvement of the community. It further reminds him that change is on the horizon.
Biko M.
Community Outreach
Dorian T.
Violence Interrupter
Dorian came to Noah’s Ark after realizing his passion aligned with the mission of the organization. He was eager to get started when he learned the focus was peace in the community. Since working with Noah’s Ark, he has grown a fond appreciation for working as a team and attributes teamwork to the ongoing success of the organization. Dorian’s passion is fueled by change. He prides himself on his ability to influence change that others can relate to. As you can tell, Dorian loves his role as a Violence Interrupter He especially enjoys the team-building events and team community outreach. I guess you can say, teamwork makes the dream work.
Bermadia S.
Outreach Worker / Back up Hospital Responder
Bermadia came to Noah’s Ark after learning about the Cure Violence program. After meeting Ms. Monique and Ms. Jackie, she knew this was where she wanted to be. Since working at Noah’s Ark, Bermadia has learned to never allow the audience to redefine who she is and never, ever compromise her own integrity. She knows change is abrasive, but strategy is key. Bermadia’s passion lies in the ability to help change lives by creating a positive foundation for everyone. Seeing the team working together and smiling are some of her most enjoyable moments at work. For her, smiles mean goals were successfully met. Now that’s a win/win.
