Lawson's Develpoment Foundation

Lawson's Development Foundation brings its team together by fostering a shared passion for empowering at-risk youth, addressing community challenges, and promoting non-violence through mentorship, innovative programs, and unwavering dedication to positive change. We will use people from the communities where we intend to promote/advocate for change, utilizing the ex-offender population and recovered persons who have overcome adverse situations to have a productive life. We have to connect the dots of mismanaged relationships between fathers, mothers with their children, and restore a positive home atmosphere by removing the barriers of struggle that affect the well-being of a healthy foundation. This includes mental health, emotional intelligence, and physical well-being, (healthy diet).

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Jerome Lawson: Advocate for Youth, Community Restoration, and Violence Reduction

Jerome Lawson is a passionate and dynamic community advocate from Columbus, GA, with a mission to combat violence, restore community spirit, and uplift at-risk youth. Having overcome a life of poverty, drugs, and violence, Jerome's story is one of resilience, redemption, and transformation. At the age of 16, Jerome served 10 years in prison for armed robbery, an experience that reshaped his life and ignited his commitment to preventing others from following the same path.

With over a decade of experience in community engagement and violence prevention, Jerome served as the Director of Cure Violence, a public health non-violence program under the Department of Public Health. In this role, he spearheaded initiatives that reduced crime and empowered individuals to choose non-violent alternatives, establishing himself as a credible voice and trusted leader in his community. His extensive background in mentorship, program development, and relationship-building has allowed him to engage deeply with the people of Columbus, forging partnerships and fostering change.

In July 2024, Jerome officially incorporated his 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, The Lawson’s Development Foundation, dedicated to reducing crime and addressing systemic challenges facing underserved youth. Through innovative programs like the Suspension Alternative Program (S.A.P.), Jerome provides mentorship, alternative education, and monitoring for at-risk students to keep them engaged and on a positive trajectory. His foundation also focuses on holistic community restoration, offering support services, workforce development, and cultural awareness initiatives.

Jerome’s impact extends beyond programming—he is a self-proclaimed life coach, speaker, and mentor who has spoken to thousands of youths and adults, inspiring them with his story and advocating for systemic change. Known as a "credible messenger" in his community, Jerome has built a network of deep, trusted relationships with individuals, families, and organizations, making him uniquely positioned to address violence and promote sustainable solutions.

Jerome’s efforts require significant support to flourish. With a proven track record of leadership and a clear vision for the future, he is seeking grants, sponsorships, and donations to expand his reach and impact. By investing in Jerome and The Lawson’s Development Foundation, donors and partners will help create safer, healthier, and more vibrant communities.

For organizations, companies, and donors committed to youth empowerment, violence reduction, and community transformation, partnering with Jerome Lawson represents an opportunity to make a tangible, lasting difference. Together, we can rewrite the narrative for our youth and communities.

Meet the team

There is no I in team! These are brothers and sisters who exemplify what friendship and family are about. Each has a specific walk of life that speaks to the mission. A leader is only as great as those who are led!