Tommie grew up in the Austin neighborhood. He lost multiple family members and friends to gun violence. He participated in the street life and spent over a decade in jail on drug charges. When he was released, he started working in construction. However, he always knew he wanted to support at-risk youth. So, when he was recruited by a Nonviolence Chicago Outreach Worker, he decided to change his career and follow his passion. He was hired as a READI Outreach Worker in 2017 and after two years, he was promoted to a Supervisor. The community has known Tommie for decades, and now he is happy that he can have a positive influence to help straighten up the neighborhood and support its residents.