Akron Community Voice

07/24/2024

Are you interested in learning about being prepared to purchase your first home? Then join us for this free Home Lending workshop
on 7/24/2024 @5:30PM 50 S. Main Street in the Chase Building downtown across from the main library. Please RSVP
RSVP LINK:

Photography / Videotaping Notice: All individuals attending this event may be recorded and videotaped, and such recordings may be used in audio, visual and audiovisual productions (“Content”) created by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (together with its affiliates, “Chase”). Your attendance will c...

04/21/2024

What a Saturday! The Women’s Luncheon, A Slot Car Convention, The Delta’s Event and The Uncle Nearest Cigar Night Out.

03/22/2024

If you want to go fast.. go alone. If you want to go far....go together!
- African Proverb
Happy Friday!!

03/22/2024

Your haters are fans too!

02/07/2024

We are doing it again!! Join us as we celebrate eleven impactful Black women Feb 22nd. Music, food and fun. FREE EVENT. RSVP at eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-excellence-mixer-tickets-816146685707?aff=oddtdtcreator

02/01/2024

Black History Month affords us the chance to challenge what we learned in history, dig deeper, and find out the actual events of the past that were not taught in schools. It allows us to learn about, celebrate, and honor Black leaders. Many of these leaders endured sacrifice and suffering and must be honored.

01/30/2024

Today we celebrate Dejuana Waters-Herald!!

De'Juana Waters-Herald is a dedicated community servant who has overcome adversity to become a catalyst for transformation and progress.
Growing up in a community grappling with socioeconomic hardships, she set out to uplift her community through education, support, and advocacy, establishing initiatives that address critical needs within her community. She is the Founder/CEO of BRIDGE THE VILLAGE, an organization that serves, supports, and educates youth and families throughout the community.

Her ability to bring diverse stakeholders to the table, fostering an atmosphere of inclusivity and unity, is a testament to her outstanding leadership skills. Her story serves as an inspiration to others, demonstrating that with dedication, resilience, and a heart for service, even the most challenging circumstances can be overcome to create a brighter future for all.
Recognizing the Power of Collaboration: De'Juana firmly believes that collaboration is key to success. She is the CEO/ Lead PC Consultant of Given Charge Services, a coaching and consulting agency focused on cultivating communities one step at a time.

She has led numerous community projects that have brought together individuals, communities, and organizations with shared objectives. Her empathy, perspective, and perseverance have led her to establish initiatives geared toward community building. De'Juana's exceptional leadership skills are evident in her ability to bring diverse stakeholders to the table, creating an inclusive and unified environment.

Show her love & support today!!!

01/29/2024

We’re starting our week off strong by celebrating CEO & Culinary Extraordinaire Chef Dannika Stevenson!

Dannika Stevenson is an Akron native and CEO & Owner of SIPSAVORSOUL, LLC and SIPSAVORSOUL Cooking School, Akron’s first community cooking school.

Her culinary career began at the tender age of 4, cooking and baking alongside her Great-Grandmother, Pearl. For the past 20 years, she has worked in various culinary roles such as prep cook, beverage and banquet server, chef assistant, and culinary instructor. She is an outstanding culinary professional with extensive experience in the fields of culinary, nutrition education, and public health. She is also a certified wine educator with the American Wine School. In her spare time, Dannika is an avid baker and cookie decorator.

Dannika has conducted over 450 cooking classes and demonstrations and has partnered with organizations such as SouthStreet Ministries, Let’s Grow Akron, Akron Public Schools, Akron Summit Community Action, Portage Path Behavioral Health, Akron Public Library, WIC/Summit County Health Dept, Wingfoot Church, Summa Health, Cleveland Clinic, Lebron James Family Foundation and many more. She has regularly cooked on New Day Fox 8 Cleveland, and her delicious recipes have been featured in Taste of Home Magazine, Babe Magazine, Akron Life Magazine, Voyage Ohio, Canvas Rebel, and Hope Magazine. In April 2023, Dannika won the 330 Flavor Showdown Chopped Competition. In November 2023, Dannika won the “Golden Fork” Award from the Akron Urban League for the success of her food business. Dannika presently instructs multiple after-school cooking programs and also serves as a Suppertime Meal coordinator at Stark Fresh which provides homemade, fresh meals to Stark County residents. Her mission is to fight food insecurity and hunger and increase health and well-being for children and families throughout all communities.

Dannika is an active member of Eta Delta Sigma of Sigma Gamma Rho, Inc. and Les Dames d'Escoffier International-Cleveland Chapter. In addition, she has graduated from Leadership Akron Diversity of Board Class 3, Mayor’s Citizen Institute, Neighborhood Leadership Institute of Summit County, MORTAR, Akron Community Foundation Institute of Emerging Philanthropists, and Love Akron's JEDI program. She was a former member of the American Culinary Foundation, Akron Public Arts Council, OH Black Women’s Leadership Caucus, and GASP.

Dannika is a licensed foster parent and loves caring for children and her chihuahua, Monte. She enjoys food photography, traveling, and watching classic game shows.

Join us in showing her some love!

01/26/2024

Today we celebrate the works of Veida Rose TheClubhouse !!!

Daveida Id-Deen, also known as Veida Rose, is the Massage Professional and owner of The Touch of Aeri'L LLC. She is also the Life Coach and owner of Verbal Rejuvenation LLC. As the founder of Before The Crowning and The Clubhouse of The TOA LLC, she holds a central role in fostering positive change. In addition, Daveida serves as a Qualified Behavioral Health Specialist at BF Empowerment Center. Her mastery lies in transforming negative perspectives into limitless possibilities, acting as a personal GPS for those seeking elevation in their journey of change. With a steadfast commitment to God, a willingness to take chances, and a track record of emerging victorious, connecting with Daveida ensures a path to success with no losses.

We honor you today & every day!!

Show her some love!

01/25/2024

Today we celebrate Keynote Speaker, Coach & Author Dr. Constance Peek-Longmire!!
Check out her bio below & show some love and support!!!

Constance J. Longmire is the founder of Peek Institute Training Professional Development, Living with Purpose (a not for profit organization) and Grace International Bible College. She is also host of the cable talk show Intentional Living. Her career expansion includes serving as VP of Customer Service at a Healthcare Facility, Human Resource Manager, College Professor, Executive Coach, Diversity and Equity consultant. In 2022 she started Peek Institute Training Coaching Academy and has graduated over 100 Certified Life Coaches from 4 different states.
She attended Akron University and received her Doctorate Degree from Grace and Truth Seminary in Indiana.

As an Instructor at Kent State University, Dr. Longmire received the distinguish President’s Excellence Award which honors those who are making a difference on campus. She is a graduate of Kent State University “Leadership Institute for Excellence” a 10 month extensive and accelerated leadership program. The “Diversity Trail Blazer Award” was giving to her campus because of her outstanding work in the area of Diversity and Community Involvement.
Her non-profit, Living with Purpose provides toys for children through Toys for Tots, Thanksgiving baskets with food to feed a family of 8-10 people, holiday gift cards giveaway and school supplies. Each year she gives a deserving student a scholarship from the Harvey and Mamie Peek (her parents) college scholarship fund.
She has served on several panels for educational reform, such as the Educational Panel for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District with Dr. Bernice King (daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.) and other renowned educators.

Dr. Longmire has received the following Awards:
•​Recipient of the Mothers, Mentors and Muses Award
•​ YMCA Volunteer of the Year​​​​​​​
•​Pan African Study Award for Outstanding Faculty​
•​Awarded Girl Scout Honorable Mention
•​Faculty Award for Outstanding Teaching
​
Community Involvement Includes:
•​Back to School Book Bag Give Away ​​
•​Member of the Ministerial Alliance Board – local ministers and community leaders that assists the disenfranchised and low income in the areas of food, shelter and clothing​
•​YMCA Teen Leadership – Coordinate programming for teenagers​​​​
•​ Earth Day Celebration Coordinator​​​​​
•​ Community Hunger Center Food Drive Coordinator
•​Salvation Army Leadership – Developed programming for teens and young adults​​

She is the 11th of 12 children born to Harvey and Mamie Peek of Twinsburg Heights, Ohio. After the passing of her mom, she wrote “I Miss Talking to You” a book designed to help and encourage caregivers. She is a licensed Evangelist with the Pentecostal Assembly of the World organization. She attends Calvary Ministries International under the leadership of Bishop C. Shawn Tyson, where she serves as Christian Education Director, Deaconess and Altar Evangelist. She is a requested speaker, workshop presenter and preacher of the Gospel.
Dr. Longmire is married and has two children K. Matthew and Kaylyn Joy.

01/24/2024

Today we are celebrating the one and only Lauren Marsh 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

Lauren Marsh, a proud lifelong Akron resident, attended Firestone High School and the University of Akron, majoring in Political Science and Criminology. Due to her strong track record of promoting productive relationships among the community and elected officials, she was selected to serve as Regional Party Affairs Director for the Ohio Democratic Party. In this role, she was responsible for building and maintaining relationships with county parties, elected officials, activists, and grassroots labor leaders and connecting them to the party's resources. After this position, she was appointed the first African American Clerk of Council for Summit County Council.

In 2023, Marsh was elected the President of the Akron Urban League Young Professionals. She’s an active member of Torchbearers (Class of 2019), Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and Federated Democratic Women of Summit County. In 2023, Lauren was selected as a fellow for the Congressional Black Caucus Institute in Washington, DC, receiving extensive public policy and leadership development training. She currently serves as the Assistant Chief of Staff in the Mayor’s Office in the City of Akron.

Lauren has been active in her community and has received numerous awards and accolades for her involvement in Northeast Ohio. She was recognized in 2020 as an Akron Beacon Journal Unsung Hero for her commitment to volunteerism. Her activism and involvement in politics led to her being awarded the 2022 Russell M. Pry Young Democrat of the Year Award from the Summit County Democratic Party.

Lauren founded Firestone Dance and Step Team and served as the Head Coach for 15 years at Firestone High School. She enjoys shopping, volunteering in her community, and listening to music. She’s an accomplished pianist and the mother of a busy toddler, Johnny.

01/23/2024

Today we celebrate Sonyia R. Harris !!!

Sonyia has dedicated the last seven years to serving as a Commercial Underwriting Support Specialist at the third-largest insurance company globally. Beyond her professional endeavors, she finds immense fulfillment as a mother of two daughters and a proud "Glam-Ma" to three grandchildren.

As the fifth oldest among seven sisters, Sonyia cherishes her upbringing in what society may deem a non-traditional family due to racial differences. Firm in her belief that God orchestrates every aspect of life without error, she acknowledges her parents' home as precisely where she was meant to be.

Alongside her corporate role, Sonyia actively contributes to her community and political landscape. As a member of The Federated Democratic Woman of Ohio in Summit County, she engages in diverse activities to support political campaigns and community initiatives. Additionally, her involvement at the United Baptist Church extends to serving on the Repass Ministry, Fellowship Ministry, and choir.

Cleveland native Sonyia's journey led her to Akron after a three-year period of incarceration. The city provided essential re-entry assistance through programs at the Akron Urban League, playing a pivotal role in shaping the phenomenal woman she is today.

In her leisure time, Sonyia passionately creates lasting memories with family and friends. Her commitment to serving God in various capacities and empowering others reflects her values. Looking ahead, Sonyia is eager to continue her service, particularly in re-entry work, and aims to raise awareness about the economic challenges faced by incarcerated black women.

01/22/2024

Today we shout out a few good brothers who are impacting our beloved city. Shout out to Al Jones Lathardus Goggins II Leland Snell Frank L. Miller III Preston Clark Dan Roberson Eric Nelson E Fletcher Fred Barrett Denny M Wilson Jeffrey Dennis Pastor Norris Mwatabu S. Okantah Dray Evans Ten Taliente John Smith. Please Share.

01/19/2024

Today we are celebrating the tremendous works of Ebony Akron!!!

Ebony Hill is a Master Life and Relationship Coach, ordained minister, author, motivational speaker, podcaster, 20+ year Corporate Trainer and HR professional. She is also a community activist, a natural-born encourager, and a dedicated wife. She has authored and published five books, including "How I Went from 45 and Single to 45 and Married," both book and workbook, "The 21-Day Power Journal," "My Vision Workbook," and "Celebrating Kwanzaa and the Nguzo Saba Throughout the Year."

As a person who values relationships and personal growth, becoming a certified life coach was a natural progression for her. Ebony desires to witness people succeed and achieve their goals at every age and stage of life. Motivating others has been an integral part of her, both professionally and personally, for over thirty years. Specializing in helping women grow in the areas of life, love, relationships, self-love, and self-care, she brings a wealth of experience.

As a determined 45-year-old bride, she was resolute, not desperate, to meet her Boaz and hold onto the promise that God told her. Celebrating six years of marriage with her husband this year, she is committed to helping others strategically identify growth areas and create action plans based on proven methods derived from years of training and coaching experience.

We appreciate you Ebony!!!

01/18/2024

WE ARE THE ONES WE SERVE Initiative 2024

01/18/2024

Today we celebrate Jasina Chapman!! As a Community Advocate, Leader, & Connector she’s unstoppable! Thank you for all of your efforts!
Born and raised in Buffalo, NY, she came to Ohio by way of Kent State University. Education brought her to NEO, the community that developed around her kept her here.

Professionally, after working in education for nearly 10 years, Jasina transitioned to FirstEnergy Corp where she works in the Corporate Affairs and Community Involvement department. With a servants heart, holding high value on impact, both spaces fit her well.

Jasina is driven by the desire to live in her purpose and to be effective. Realizing our greatest resource is people, she is a willing connector; often bridging the gap between need and resources by aligning people to serve another. Along with connecting, Jasina serves our community through advocacy. Whether serving as a volunteer, organization leader, nonprofit leader, political campaign manager, organizer, fundraiser, committee or board member, Jasina is passionate about being a voice for the unheard, underserved, misunderstood, devalued or needy.
Jasina serves the Greater Akron community as a member of community boards including Students with a Goal and Good Samaritan Hunger Center, serving on committees of several non profit including Project GRAD and Emmanuel Christian Academy and active involvement in service organizations including Akron NAACP, Ohio Black Womens Leadership Caucus, Akron NPHC and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Eta Delta Sigma Akron Alumnae Chapter.

01/17/2024

Today we celebrate Aqillah Al-Qaadir !! As the second youngest of eight children and a devoted mother to three daughters, Aqillah wears many hats.

Professionally, she excels as a realtor with Keller Williams Legacy Group, bringing her expertise to help families buy and sell real estate since 2018. Additionally, Aqillah shares her passion for gymnastics as a coach at the Dominique Moceanu Gymnastics Center, boasting a coaching journey that began in January 2023.

Beyond that, she and her spouse serve as personal trainers and youth boxing coaches at the YMCA, dedicating their time since August 2022 to inspire and uplift others in their fitness journey.

Aqillah's interests extend to working out, engaging in puzzles, exploring the world of coloring and drawing, and immersing herself in the joy of reading. Join us in applauding the multifaceted talents and accomplishments of Aqillah Al-Qaadir!

01/16/2024

Today we celebrate Misty Beasley! Misty is the founder and owner of The Rogers and Rivers Enterprise, a social enterprise organization dedicated to building a legacy of impactful services and programming that will provide solutions to create positive, lasting change. The organization’s purpose is to strengthen communities and promote social and economic growth in underprivileged and underserved individuals to make a positive impact in the world.

01/15/2024

In November 2023 we gathered 11 Akron Black leaders to recognize their consistent impact on our beloved city of Akron.
Join us in celebrating the "WE ARE THE ONES WE SERVE" initiative as we highlight the greatness of these powerful women.
PLEASE SHARE our daily content for the rest of January.

12/31/2023

In the land with my cousin Claritha Foxhall and my right hand man Latif Hughes creating moves for 2024 in style.

09/21/2023

Fun fact! Kat McDaniel is a foodie at heart! If you can..check out Reggie Ray's BBQ. One of Akron's newest Gems!

04/16/2023

Happy Sunday! Join us as we talk to three local entrepreneurs that are impacting our city. If you are interested in appearing on our podcast please inbox us or email us at [email protected]

03/12/2023

Happy Sunday! Check out Joy Gadson as she interview Veida Rose of the Clubhouse of TOA.

03/05/2023

9 years and still going, we have been providing a place for black entrepreneurs, creatives and community leaders since 2014. Join us as we celebrate our anniversary!

02/24/2023

Join us as we meet with local personal chef Jennifer Tidwell of Jenuine Cuisine Culinary Services.

02/20/2023

This week we met with Justin Chenault the Executive Director of the North Hill CDC. For everything North Hill check out this weeks podcast on our page.

02/20/2023

Our next guest is none other than Veida Rose TheClubhouse ! Veida has created a space for Akron Creatives, Entrepreneurs, builders, and dreamers! Tune in as we learn more about Veida's entrepreneurship journey and how The Club House came to be!

You don't want to miss this!! New shows drop every Sunday at 9am!

02/19/2023

Happy Sunday! Today we talk North Hill with Executive Director Justin Chenault of North Hill CDC.

02/13/2023

Joy for the Journey here with your friendly reminder

We must stop striving for perfection and instead focus on our strengths in spite of regularly being confronted by our weaknesses.