Each day in February, we are featuring a local, Greater Green Bay Black Herstory/History Maker. This is a 5 part series. Check out part one here. Check out part two here. Check our part three here. Check out part five here.
Tameika Hughes-Foote
Bio: Tameika is deeply passionate about serving women in the community by focusing on their self-development. She channels this passion both in her role as a Case Manager at St. Johns Ministries and through her own business called, GoGirl! Life Coaching, LLC, and her recently founded non-profit organization You! Inc. Drawing from her personal life experiences, Tameika understands the significance of cultivating healthy self-development and the consequences of neglecting it. Her ultimate goal is to empower women with the tools to lead lives marked by a recognition of their power, self-worth, and the nurturing of positive relationships. Tameika firmly believes that by achieving this, she can contribute to building a stronger community.
Reason Nominated: Tameika has been such an amazing asset to the community. She works tirelessly to connect people and create spaces for folks in the area. She is always willing to help with projects and brings such a thoughtful insight to the work.
James McGee
Bio: James McGee is the BYA-WI Community Coordinator and youth supervisor at We All Rise African American Resource Center. I love what I do, and I am able to grow and be a part of an organization that is dedicated to serving our community. This opportunity has allowed me to be able to work with an incredible team of people whom I have learned a great deal from. Working with the youth at the center is rewarding, and I look forward to the great things that they will accomplish in their lives.
Reason Nominated: I believe James should be nominated for the amazing work that he does for the youth program. I have witnessed James to be calm in demeanor, relaxed, patient, and quietly humorous. He is a great role model for the youth.
He goes out of his way to make sure that the youth are picked up from school and dropped off safely at their homes when the program is over. He organizes learning events, unique eating places, recreational activities, and so much more.
He is a great mentor to the youth and the community. Thanks for all that you do James! Keep being you!
Categories:
Community Leadership
Educational Excellence
Cultural Enrichment
Social Justice and Activism
Entrepreneurship
Aaron Walker
Bio: Aaron "AJ" Walker currently serves as the Police Lieutenant for the UW-Green Bay Police Department. AJ works closely with the Dean of Students office and currently serves as the staff advisor for the Men of Color Alliance (MOCA). Additionally, AJ is the Curriculum Committee Chair for Leadership Green Bay. He holds a master's degree in Professional Studies and is working on his Doctor of Education, where he is intensively studying Black males' success in higher education. AJ is a Chicago Westside native (Henry Horner Projects) and is married with three children: Nya, Jordy, and Kale.
Reason Nominated: Aaron (AJ) Walker works as the Lt. Of Police for UW Green Bay and is always willing to give of himself to strengthen the relationship between the police and those they serve at UW Green Bay. AJ is always willing to serve on panels or participate in events like the Achievement Summits bringing 6 to 8th graders on campus. AJ willingly shares his stories about his educational journey helping kids feel like they are not alone if they may think school isnt for them. AJ also frequently helps with TRIO/Upward bound by leading a creative writing workshop showing kids people who look like them can be creative. AJ also led a workshop for Lovin The Skin I'm In on having "The Talk" with your kids. AJ his willingness to share his experiences while being his full authentic self is what makes him a staple in this community and why I believe he should be highlighted.
Categories:
Community Leadership
Educational Excellence
Granny - Yvonne Lawson
Bio: Yvonne Lawson, also known as Granny, is a beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and wife living in Green Bay for 20 years. She spends her days helping our community through her work with Kingdom Agenda Church, We All Rise: African American Resource Center, and walking our neighborhood seeing how she can help. “Without God I would have never made it this far. God is always on my side. All the wonderful people I have met through God.” -Yvonne Lawson
Reason Nominated: Seemingly tireless provider of nourishment and goodwill to the poor in the city
Categories:
Community Leadership
Social Justice and Activism
Malik Lynch
Bio: My name is Malik Lynch and I am the proud owner of Fresh Prints Of Green Bay. Local black owned printing company that specializes in screen printing, embroidery, and promotional items. This business was created to provide affordable quality clothing for the youth and community. Born and raised in Bronx New York, fashion has always been a thing for me. We love to get get FRESH!!! My true passions are advocacy for the youth. I enjoy being the person I wish I had when I was a teen. Someone positive to look up to and get advice from. I am a former GBAPS employee where I served as Student Learning Advocate for about 6 years. I am also a Green Bay East Red Devil for life. Lol!!! All the work I do in the community is only so the youth can have a promising future. Lastly, if there is one thing you should know about me. I love to see people WIN!!!!
Reason Nominated: Malik always aims to work for the kids of the community. He is a mentor to many young entrepreneurs and is always willing to help anyone in need. He is a gem in this community!
Reason Nominated: Malik exemplifies history changemakers with his positive impact on the community. Through his business, Fresh Prints, he is a leader, mentor, entrepreneur and role model for Black folks in our area. In addition, his dedication and commitment to supporting community efforts is commendable and admirable. In alignment with the 2024 theme, Malik reflects the significant impact of Black folks in our community, making him deserving of recognition. Thank you, Malik!
Categories:
Community Leadership
Educational Excellence
Cultural Enrichment
Entrepreneurship
Devin Tinnon
Bio: Devin Tinnon is originally from Milwaukee, WI, moved to Green Bay in 2005, and has been traveling to and from since. He is going into his fourth year with We All Rise. The first two years were hands-on direct care with survivors as a Crime Victim Advocate at the organization. In 2023, Devin was promoted to a Shelter Manager role at All Seasons Transformation, a sober living facility that can house 49 men facing life hurdles. Devin is now a leader in providing programming, case management, and holistic healing/mental health services for the individuals at All Seasons Transformation. When Devin is off, he enjoys spending quality time with family, including his two lovely sons and partner, and his work friends. He has been through many hurdles in life up until now, and Devin is eager to help others improve their lives through his work with We All Rise.
“By helping We All Rise, it helps the client help themselves. We promote the healing of all.” -Devin Tinnon
Reason Nominated: Devin is very passionate about "fighting for people who can't fight for themselves" His leadership at AST plays a vital role in addressing supporting individuals during periods of transition and promoting long-term stability, independence, and well-being. He worked this past year to help guests get access to fresh food and "dirt therapy" by creating a space for a small garden that guests cultivated and harvested. He plays a crucial component in community-based efforts to help individuals rebuild their lives.
Reason Nominated: He is hard working, selfless and an example of strong leadership and integrity. He gives his all every day. He's also a great father. He is a great advocate and support to the community.
Categories:
Community Leadership
Cultural Enrichment
Social Justice and Activism
Charles Caston
Bio: Meet Charles Caston, a dedicated community partner and navigator hailing from Milwaukee, WI. Having spent the last decade in Green Bay, Charles is not only a loving father to six children but also a devoted advocate for the most marginalized individuals in his community. Through his work, Charles strives to make a positive impact, offering support and guidance to those who need it most. His commitment to uplifting others is evident in every step of his journey, embodying the spirit of compassion and community service.
Reason Nominated: Charles is plays a critical role in connecting the community. He has such a passion for helping people and he plays a vital role in fostering unity, empowerment, and addressing unique challenges faced by the Black community. Through intentional outreach he has established relationships and connections to engage authentically with community members. He works to connect and assists residents in navigating complex systems, accessing resources, and understanding their rights – particularly in areas such as healthcare, education, and employment. He works to promote opportunities such as educational resources and job opportunities. He serves as a liaise with institutions, local government, and other organizations to ensure that policies and programs address the specific challenges faced by the Black community. Thank you, Charles!
Categories:
Community Leadership
Educational Excellence
Cultural Enrichment
Social Justice and Activism