Lights and Sirens International is excited to announce that our founder, Ibn-Hashim Bakari, has been selected as a recipient of the Changemaker Award from the Institute for Nonprofit Practice (INP).
The INP works to transform the social impact sector to be more effective, equitable, diverse, and connected. The Changemaker Award shines a light on individuals, many of whom have been on the frontlines supporting others, demonstrating remarkable service, courage, and generosity in the face of unprecedented adversity.
Read an excerpt for Ibn below, and see the full article here on the INP blog.
“Ibn has been assisting and encouraging youth for over 20 years, starting as a Youth Correction Officer. The programs he has initiated allow kids to understand and develop discipline, leadership, and listening skills. He has been dedicated to making a positive change in his community through his nonprofit organization Lights & Sirens International.
Last year, Ibn recognized the disconnect between the police and the community. As a result, he created “Badges & Bean Bags” — five sessions of bocce ball games between the police, teenagers, and adults in the community. Each two hour session allowed for playing while having conversations involving such topics as implicit bias, ego, and accountability.
Relationships developed as well as an understanding of each other’s perspectives. In the midst of this ongoing pandemic, he organized food drives for Thanksgiving and toy donations during the Christmas holiday to bring joy to his community during a difficult time. Ibn is an INP Alum.”
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