Ep10: Strategic Community Development: Insights from BGC Durham’s Executive Director Howard Moriah

In the latest episode of the Future Focused Learning Podcast, our host Kyla Bolden sat down with Howard Moriah, the Executive Director of BGC Durham, to delve into the critical topic of strategic community development. This engaging conversation sheds light on the transformative power of thoughtfully designed programs that not only engage youth but also break down barriers to success, with a particular focus on the BIPOC community.

Listen to the Podcast Episode on Apple Podcast and Spotify: Ep10: Strategic Community Development: Insights from BGC Durham’s Executive Director Howard Moriah

The Importance of Strategic Community Development

Howard Moriah brings decades of experience to the table, sharing his insights on what it takes to create impactful community programs. He emphasizes that effective community development goes beyond mere engagement; it requires a deep understanding of the community’s needs and the challenges they face. By being on the ground and living in the communities he serves, Howard ensures that his work is always aligned with the real needs of the youth and families he aims to support.

One of the key takeaways from the episode is Howard's focus on breaking generational cycles of poverty. He argues that community programs must be designed with the intent of overcoming systemic barriers, providing youth with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed. This involves not only traditional education but also innovative approaches like STEM programming, which equips students with the skills needed for the rapidly evolving job market.

The Role of STEM in Breaking Barriers

Howard highlights the crucial role of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education in preparing youth for the future. In an era where technology is advancing at an unprecedented rate, equipping young people with foundational STEM skills is more important than ever. However, Howard notes that many communities are still lagging behind in providing these opportunities, which is why organizations like BGC Durham are stepping up to fill the gap.

Through strategic partnerships and a focus on innovative programming, Howard and his team are working to ensure that BIPOC youth have access to the education and resources they need to break into high-demand fields like cybersecurity and AI. These programs are not just about keeping kids occupied after school; they are about laying the groundwork for long-term success.

Collaboration is Key

Another important theme of the episode is the need for collaboration between schools, community organizations, and other stakeholders. Howard points out that while the traditional education system plays a vital role, it cannot do everything alone. Community organizations like BGC Durham are uniquely positioned to offer complementary programs that address gaps in the education system and provide students with a more holistic learning experience.

Howard stresses the importance of moving away from siloed approaches and instead fostering true partnerships that leverage the strengths of different organizations. By working together, schools and community organizations can create a more cohesive and supportive environment for students, ultimately leading to better outcomes.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Community Development

As BGC Durham continues to evolve its strategic plan, Howard is focused on ensuring that every program and service offered is aligned with the goal of improving students opportunities and breaking the cycle of poverty. He challenges other community leaders to think critically about the long-term impact of their work and to constantly seek out new ways to innovate and improve.

In closing, this episode of the Future Focused Learning Podcast offers valuable insights for anyone involved in community development or education. Howard Moriah’s experience and wisdom serve as a powerful reminder that with the right strategies, we can create programs that truly transform lives and pave the way for a brighter future for all.