URBAN COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS, INC.

MISSION STATEMENT

Urban Community Connections, Inc. is a Florida nonprofit empowering youth and families through education in health & wellness, arts, media, journalism, radio, sports, STEM robotics, literacy, college & career readiness, and crime prevention.

VISION STATEMENT

Urban Community Connections, Inc. envisions a community that honors the human capacity for creativity, and values its cultivation in the education of impressionable, yet vulnerable youth, and extended families in inner-city communities, with the utilization of evidence-based curricula and best practice models.

PROGRAMS

Urban Community Connections, Inc. delivers year-round educational, enrichment, and community engagement programs that promote academic achievement, personal development, and healthy lifestyles for youth and families. Our programs include health and wellness education; visual and performing arts; digital media, journalism, and radio broadcasting; youth sports and recreation; STEM, coding, and robotics; literacy and academic enrichment; college and career readiness; leadership development; mentoring; and violence and crime prevention. Through hands-on learning, community partnerships, and positive youth engagement, we help participants build critical life skills, develop confidence, explore career pathways, and become engaged, productive leaders in their schools and communities.

Executive Leadership Team

Sharron L. Henley is the Founder and Executive Director of Urban Community Connections, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals, strengthening families, and building thriving communities. With a passion for service, leadership, and community engagement, Sharron has spent years connecting families to vital resources, educational opportunities, and support services that create lasting positive change. Her commitment to uplifting others is driven by the belief that strong communities are built through compassion, collaboration, and meaningful connections. Through Urban Community Connections, Inc., Sharron continues to inspire hope, foster growth, and make a difference, one connection at a time.

Lori M. Barber is a dedicated community advocate, real estate professional, and passionate servant leader committed to helping individuals and families achieve their goals. As a valued supporter of Urban Community Connections, Inc., Lori brings a wealth of experience in relationship building, community engagement, and resource development. Her heart for service and unwavering commitment to empowering others align perfectly with the organization’s mission of strengthening communities and creating opportunities for growth and success. Lori believes that meaningful connections, education, and support are the foundation for lasting positive change.

💜 “Empowering people, strengthening families, and building brighter futures through service and connection.” 💛

Kenya Capehart serves as the Community Impact Ambassador for Urban Community Connections, Inc., where she plays a vital role in building meaningful relationships, promoting community engagement, and amplifying the organization’s mission. With a passion for connecting people and inspiring positive change, Kenya serves as a bridge between the organization and the communities it serves. Her enthusiasm, creativity, and commitment to service help foster partnerships, increase awareness, and create opportunities that empower individuals and families. Through her dedication and leadership, Kenya embodies the spirit of community, compassion, and impact that drives Urban Community Connections, Inc.

💜 “Building Bridges. Amplifying Voices. Inspiring Change.” 💜

Elaine Rozier serves as the Educational Impact Strategist for Urban Community Connections, Inc., where she is dedicated to advancing educational opportunities and fostering academic success for youth and families. With a passion for empowering learners and creating pathways to achievement, Elaine develops and supports initiatives that promote personal growth, educational excellence, and lifelong learning. Her strategic approach, combined with her commitment to community empowerment, helps ensure that students have access to the resources, guidance, and support needed to reach their full potential. Through her leadership and vision, Elaine plays a vital role in creating meaningful educational outcomes and lasting community impact.

💜 “Empowering Minds. Inspiring Achievement. Creating Lasting Impact.” 💜

Ervin Gavin serves as the Community Protection and Outreach Director for Urban Community Connections, Inc., where he is dedicated to promoting safer, stronger, and more connected communities. With a passion for community engagement and crime prevention, Ervin works collaboratively with residents, community leaders, law enforcement partners, and local organizations to develop proactive strategies that enhance public safety and improve quality of life.

As a trusted advocate and leader, Ervin focuses on building positive relationships, increasing community awareness, and creating outreach initiatives that empower individuals and families. His commitment to service, prevention, and community empowerment helps advance the organization’s mission of fostering safe neighborhoods, strengthening community partnerships, and creating opportunities for lasting positive change.

Through his leadership and dedication, Ervin continues to make a meaningful impact by helping communities thrive through education, engagement, and protection.

💜 “Building Safer Communities Through Prevention, Partnership, and Purpose.” 💜

Arthur Barber

Director of Community Safety and Mobility

Arthur Barber serves as the Director of Community Safety and Mobility for Urban Community Connections, Inc., where he is committed to creating safe, accessible, and supportive environments for individuals and families throughout the community. With more than 25 years of professional experience, Arthur brings extensive expertise in public safety, youth services, transportation coordination, and community engagement.

His distinguished career includes service with the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice and the Department of Homeland Security, where he developed a strong foundation in safety operations, crisis management, security protocols, and community protection. Arthur’s leadership, strategic planning, and dedication to service help ensure that Urban Community Connections, Inc. operates with the highest standards of safety, accessibility, and community care.

Passionate about empowering communities through proactive solutions and meaningful connections, Arthur works to bridge gaps in transportation, enhance community safety initiatives, and support programs that improve the quality of life for those served by the organization.

💜 “Creating Safe Pathways. Connecting Communities. Empowering Lives.” 💜

Marlon G. Ferdinand is a dedicated servant leader whose lifelong commitment to service spans both military and civilian sectors. As Director of Veteran Impact and Community Engagement for Urban Community Connections, Inc., he leads efforts to connect veterans, military families, and community members with critical resources, support services, and opportunities that foster growth, stability, and success.

A distinguished military veteran, Marlon proudly served 14 years in the U.S. Army and 16 years in the U.S. Air Force, retiring with the rank of Major after a remarkable 30-year military career. In addition to his military service, he is a Registered Nurse and serves as a Miami-Dade County Firefighter/Paramedic, bringing a wealth of experience in emergency response, healthcare, leadership, and public service.

Marlon’s passion for advocacy, mentorship, and community engagement reflects Urban Community Connections’ mission of empowering individuals and strengthening families. Through his leadership, he works to ensure that veterans and their families remain connected, supported, and equipped to thrive while continuing to make meaningful contributions to the communities they call home.

BOARD MEMBERS

Dr. Lynda Strachan Roberts is a dedicated community leader with a distinguished background in crime prevention, public safety, and community advocacy. As a Board Member of Urban Community Connections, Inc., she brings a wealth of experience in developing strategies that strengthen neighborhoods, promote public safety, and foster positive relationships between residents and community stakeholders.

Throughout her career, Dr. Roberts has been committed to empowering individuals and families through education, prevention initiatives, and collaborative community engagement. Her expertise in crime prevention and community outreach has helped create safer environments while encouraging personal growth, accountability, and civic involvement.

Passionate about service and community impact, Dr. Roberts plays a vital role in advancing the mission of Urban Community Connections, Inc. by helping to develop programs and partnerships that empower families, support youth, and build stronger, safer communities for future generations. Her leadership, insight, and unwavering dedication continue to inspire positive change and meaningful community transformation.

💜 “Leading with Purpose. Serving with Integrity. Impacting Communities.” 💜

Anthony Harris serves as a valued Board Member of Urban Community Connections, Inc., bringing a wealth of leadership, community insight, and a deep commitment to service. As a trusted advisor and advocate for positive change, Anthony helps guide the organization’s strategic vision while supporting initiatives that strengthen families, empower youth, and foster community development.

With a passion for uplifting underserved communities and creating opportunities for growth, Anthony works collaboratively with fellow board members, community partners, and stakeholders to advance the mission of Urban Community Connections, Inc. His dedication to leadership, integrity, and community engagement helps ensure the organization continues to make a meaningful and lasting impact.

💜 “Leading with Purpose. Serving with Integrity. Impacting Communities.” 💜

Tarnesha Rachel is an accomplished healthcare leader and Registered Nurse with more than 22 years of experience spanning critical care, perioperative services, quality management, patient safety, and healthcare administration. She currently serves as Manager of Quality Management at Memorial Regional Hospital South, where she leads initiatives focused on quality improvement, regulatory compliance, patient safety, and operational excellence.

Throughout her distinguished career, Tarnesha has held numerous leadership roles within some of South Florida’s premier healthcare organizations, including Jackson Memorial Hospital, HCA Florida Mercy Hospital, University of Miami Hospital, and Palmetto General Hospital. Her expertise in quality assurance, healthcare education, nursing leadership, and performance improvement has contributed to enhanced patient outcomes and organizational success.

As a Board Member of Urban Community Connections, Inc., Tarnesha brings a passion for service, education, leadership development, and community empowerment. She is committed to helping strengthen families and communities through strategic leadership, advocacy, and a dedication to excellence.