Project Me Foundation Inc.

Christopher D. Naraine-El (also known as Reco Suave) is the Founder of Project Me Foundation Inc., a New York-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to youth mentorship, violence prevention, and workforce development across Oneida, Onondaga, and Herkimer counties.

Born and raised in San Bernardino, California, Mr. Naraine-El entered the juvenile justice system at age 12 and later the foster care system. A graduate of Boys Republic High School, he experienced many of the challenges faced by system-involved youth, including instability, negative peer influence, and lack of consistent support. He exited both systems at 18 and transformed those experiences into a trauma-informed, lived-experience approach to youth development, prevention, and reentry support.

After relocating to New York, he joined the Moorish Science Temple of America, Inc., Subordinate Temple #10 in Syracuse, deepening his commitment to service, discipline, and community leadership. He went on to founder Project Me Foundation Inc., focusing on early intervention, mentorship, life-skills development, violence interruption, and long-term stability for at-risk and transition-age youth.

In addition to his nonprofit leadership, Mr. Naraine-El is a multi-state recognized recording artist performing as Reco Suave. He has been featured in FOX-, NBC-, and CBS-affiliated media outlets and Jamsphere Magazine, with music reaching tens of thousands across streaming platforms. His creative work serves as a tool to engage youth, promote identity development, and encourage positive decision-making.

He has collaborated with organizations such as the Chicano Elegance Foundation and worked alongside advocates including J.J. Villar and Bob Walsh to advance youth empowerment and community-based alternatives to incarceration.

Today, he is a public speaker, mentor, business owner, and father whose work reflects resilience, accountability, and a deep commitment to creating pathways to success for the next generation.