Lukee Forbes

GOAL-$3,000

Lukee Forbes works as a Community Organizer for Vocal-NY, a statewide grassroots organization dedicated to ending mass incarceration, AIDS, homelessness, overdoses and the war on drugs. Prior to this position he was the Administrator Assistant for the City of Albany's Summer Youth Employment Program, and the Office Manager for the City of Albany's Youth Opportunity Office. On top of that he worked as a Community Organizer for United Tenants of Albany, advocating for housing rights. He is the Ambassador for FHI 360 Compass Rose Re-entry Program, Member of the Young adult leadership council and The New Deal For Youth Cohort . He also volunteers for several non-profit organizations in the Capital Region geared towards youth development and support. These include, but are not limited to Bridge the Gap, SNUG, Mission Accomplished, Citizen Action, The Center for Law and Justices, Tru Heart, Tinker & Fiddler, AlbanyCanCode and Young Futures.

Lukee is a leading entrepreneur who develops and nurtures future business owners through his Business 101: Business Fundamentals and Development sessions. His passion for mentoring and reaching out to the youth is inspired by his personal story. At 15 years old, Lukee was present during an assault committed by older peers and ended up serving 7 years in prison. He eventually won his appeal that ultimately overturned the conviction. Through his redemption he sets an example to other young people and shows them that they can make a positive impact in their communities. He has even worked as a production assistant on the Ed Norton film "Motherless Brooklyn" and is an aspiring film writer. He is also the CEO of Over the Wall Connections, the Director of Operation for Ah Development, Apogeebuild Property Management, Mcfay Construction, Tomorrow Today Tech, and Turn A Page Publishing. He continues to provide freelance business consulting services and is involved in many campaigns leading justice/social reforms in all areas and recently made a failed attempt running for Mayor of Albany.

Lukee believes that society views mental health as a unique problem that only some face. In reality it is something that we all deal with. Not only is it not prioritized as an issues the access to resources are disproportionate among ethnic and financial groups.