Jermaine S. Smith has been on a life journey of helping others, particularly the most vulnerable populations within our society through a track-record of civic engagement ranging from church to fraternity community service projects. The journey began on the frontlines through work in the Office of Mental Health Children’s Community Residence. His experience in the Human Services field is his foundation and aspiration for a desire to effect positive change in the world he lives in. Currently, he is responsible for the successful implementation of youth development programming for over 246 youth in foster care. Prior to working in youth development, he worked in a department where he earned four promotions within five years including roles as a Youth Counselor and Recreational Specialist, where he created and implemented a revolutionary recreation model. With aspirations of running for elected office after his graduate studies, Mr. Smith believes there is a great opportunity to impact change through policy that will speak to the macromanagement of resources that go into the community. Having started as a frontline worker and working his way to becoming the Director of Youth Development for one of largest foster care agencies in New York City, he has seen how much influence leadership has directly impacted the lives of the population which we serve.