Episode 4: Giving Youth Hope, Purpose and Community

This episode features Demetrius Smith, an adjunct professor of psychology and interdisciplinary studies at the University of South Alabama, and Tim Wills, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of South Alabama. Smith founded a mental health agency and a nonprofit with a focus in providing services for Black and impoverished communities. Smith, who grew up in the Maysville area in Mobile, discusses his journey and how he got to where he is today. Wills served as a mentor to Smith. When Wills came to Mobile from Baltimore, he quickly learned many young people in South Alabama face academic, family and personal trauma. Through the Boys & Girls Club, Wills' focus is to impact and change the opportunity equation for youth and teens in our community. The two have partnered to provide programs and services that will continue to build systems of support to drive youth success.