Rev. John H. Powell. Photo by Tony Gilberson, Pensacola News Journal
By Rebecca Ross
Pensacola News Journal
March 19, 2011
The Rev. John Powell wants to give something back to the city he loves. Person by person, "on God's time," he hopes to improve Pensacola.
The 59-year-old pastor is the founder of Truth for Youth Inc., a nonprofit organization that has been providing youths community activities since 1993. Most recently, it has sponsored a weekly series of open mic events at The Belmont Building in downtown Pensacola.
There, Powell often can be found behind the drums, encouraging others to find the rhythm of success.
Q: What is the primary goal of Truth for Youth?
A: To keep in constant communication with our community and inform them of positive activities and social engagements that everybody can get involved with. We want people of all ages and races, whether they're on or off the streets, to know that there's a safe place where they can come.
Q: What are some of your current projects?
A: What we're really excited about is transforming the Belmont Building into a community center and a home for the arts, as well as other nonprofits. Our primary goal is to raise enough money to put a roof on the building and do some refurbishments. We think it will become a wonderful place for all ages to enjoy all kinds of activities. Our young people need a safe and structured environment that's open on the weekend, or at night, to help them stay out of trouble.
Q: What is missing from the lives of Pensacola's youths?
A: There's always been a missing mechanism in society; I call it an image. Without an image, a child or person can't aspire to be anything. They need someone to look up to and to inspire them. What we're trying to do is put good image-makers in front of them to help build their self-esteem and make them want to become worthwhile tax payers. You need to fill the void with something positive.
Q: What are some positive "void fillers"?
A: Music is a truly valuable resource. It's something you never lose, no matter how old you get. I find that if you put a musical instrument in a child's hands, they'll stop being so mischievous. And the better they get at performing, the more attention and respect they'll receive.
Q: How can adults help at-risk youths?
A: Be a role model. Our society rewards bad behavior far more than good behavior, and that needs to stop. All it takes is one person telling a child, "No, you can't do that," or "That is unacceptable." We forget that children crave guidance, rules and responsibility. Every young person needs someone they can respect.
Details: http://www.truthforyouth.org/
Truth For Youth, Inc. needs your help in RAISING THE ROOF!!!
Truth For Youth is trying to raise money to build the Truth For Youth Learning & Resource Center. It will be a place for kids, young adults, and families to develop personal skills, receive training, learn a vocational trade, or participate in family-friendly activities. Please visit http://www.truthforyouth.org/ for insight on what Truth For Youth is trying to do. For any questions, please contact:
Rev. John Powell 850-393-0332
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