Patrick Young talks resilience and economic empowerment

There is a strong debate on this subject Equality in FocusKevin E. Hooks sits Patrick YoungA man whose life is full of resilience and transformation. From enduring a 13-year prison sentence to pioneering initiatives to prevent gun violence and economic empowerment, Young has become a leading voice for change. This interview details his mission to elevate his community, the obstacles he faces, and the impactful work he does through Social Peace and SHARP Men.

A journey marked by endurance

Patrick Young’s story is one of survival, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of progress. Born and raised in New Orleans, Young’s life changed forever when he lost his brother to violence, sending him down a troubled path. He spent nearly 14 years in prison and faced a daunting 65-year sentence, which was later commuted. Rather than letting incarceration define him, Young emerged determined to make a difference.

After his release in 2012, he was appointed New Orleans’ first Director of Gun Violence Prevention and went on to found SHARP Men, an organization that provides professional attire for those reentering society. “My life has been a whirlwind since I was born, but I’ve learned how to navigate the water,” Young says, comparing her experiences to New Orleans’ iconic storms. His journey is a testament to the strength it takes to overcome challenges and bring others along the same path.

Legacy of Community Strengthening

Hooks and Young delve into Young’s commitment to the community and discuss how his work with Social Peace and SHARP Men has paved the way for others facing economic and social barriers. Drawing on personal experience, Young explains that the focus is not on recognition but on making a real impact. Their work in workforce development and reentry initiatives aims to reduce the high unemployment rate among formerly incarcerated individuals, close gaps, and provide critical financial literacy resources.

For Young, legacy means “tangible things you can see, feel and walk by every day.” From helping more than 800 people find jobs in New Orleans to diverting young people from the cycle of poverty and violence, their efforts are profoundly reshaping society.

Overcoming barriers through policy and education

As a thought leader, Young addresses systemic issues that plague communities of color. Reflecting on life after incarceration, he discusses barriers to accessing financial resources, housing, and employment. He believes economic literacy is essential to breaking these cycles and calls for structured support similar to programs for veterans to assist those returning to society. “If we can look at an effective model, we can adapt that model and teach people how to transition into economic development as part of their learning,” Young says, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy in maintaining one’s independence.

His latest book explores these themes, aiming to provide a roadmap for financial and personal development tailored specifically to the unique challenges faced by formerly incarcerated individuals.

Peacekeeper Initiative

Young’s last attempt, PeacekeeperThe community expands its work into digital spaces. Recognizing the threats to young people in online environments, Young’s initiative aims to create a safe digital playground through intervention and prevention, following the example of lifeguards who monitor children in physical playgrounds. Hooks praises this approach as groundbreaking, noting the impact of digital influence on real-life violence.

By founding Peacekeeper, Young hopes to develop safe online spaces that are free from the risks of cyberbullying and the harmful effects that can spill over into offline violence. “We are building a metadata platform where parents and mentors act as ‘peacekeepers,’” Young explains, adding that the goal is to protect the mental and emotional well-being of young people in digital spaces.

Patrick Young’s journey from incarceration to community leader is a story of redemption and purpose. His efforts to elevate his society through economic empowerment, systemic reform, and innovative solutions demonstrate his deep commitment to social progress. Through initiatives like SHARP Men and Peace Guard, he makes a lasting impact on his community, reminding us all of the power of resilience, hope, and the drive to leave a legacy grounded in tangible change.

AI helped summarize this episode of Equity in Focus.