Empowering Youth Through Counseling, Mentoring, And Development Programs

Latif Ruler Yasin Bey – Associate Director

Born and raised in Warren, OH, Latif Ruler Yasin Bey’s journey with community engagement began with a simple conference call. The conversation soon transformed into mentorship, culminating in a pivotal partnership. As the Associate Director, Latif plays an instrumental role in understanding the needs of community members. His core responsibility is connecting individuals with crucial resources tailored to their unique situations. Moreover, he is at the helm of youth development programs, mainly focusing on imparting essential life skills to manage conflicts and other challenges.

For Latif, helping others isn’t just a job – it’s a sincere passion. He thrives on diving deep into an individual’s circumstances and conjuring effective solutions. His thirst for knowledge is mirrored in his fondness for the book “The Secret.” However, what truly fuels his inspiration is the company he keeps. By surrounding himself with individuals more knowledgeable than himself, Latif constantly finds opportunities to learn and grow.

His vision for the coming years is clear: to persistently acquire knowledge that empowers him to elevate community members, transforming them into better versions of themselves. In his words, complacency is never an option. Latif has a resounding message to the community he serves: “Accountability, an open mind, and consistency are the pillars we must stand by. The era of excuses has come to an end!”

Saleem Robinson

Hailing from Chicago, Illinois, Saleem Robinson took it upon himself in 2016 to make a real difference in the community. He founded Renegades for Life to address economic disparities and uplift the underprivileged.

As the Executive Director, Saleem is at the forefront of the organization’s missions and objectives, consistently pushing boundaries. His deep-seated passion revolves around improving the quality of life for low-income people.

He ardently works towards creating culturally responsive resources, symbolizing real-life possibilities for many. Outside of his commendable work, Saleem holds the book “Peace in the Hood” by Dr. Aquil Basheer, as the blueprint for his work to establish peace in the community. He also has a penchant for chess matches and exploring art museums.

Drawing inspiration from influential figures like Malcolm X, Saleem is particularly proud of a personal achievement – helping his daughter, Dalice, secure her high school diploma as a single parent. This 19-year-old’s journey serves as a continuous source of inspiration for him.

As he looks towards the future, Saleem aspires to be a community leader who offers economic leverage to low-income communities, paving the way for career development opportunities. His message for the community is poignant: “The problems in our communities are economical, and it will take grassroots economics to solve them. Those close to the problems are also the closest to the solutions.”

Jaclyn Catlett – Outreach Director

Meet Jaclyn Catlett, better known as JackieCat, a Guam-born, Everett-raised soul now calling Seattle home. She embodies the spirit of Renegades For Life, where she not only dons the official t-shirt but breathes life into its very mission.

JackieCat’s journey with Renegades For Life began when Saleem, a friend of seven years, transformed a simple tee into a movement. Initially a volunteer, she quickly transitioned into a vital team member. Today, she proudly bears the title of Outreach Coordinator, a role that sees her bridging the gap between curious volunteers and dedicated employees.

Her heart beats for Renegades For Life, fueled by an unquenchable passion to assist those who need it most – individuals and families in dire straits.

Beyond her impactful work, JackieCat’s interests offer glimpses into her captivating world. A fan of cinematic wonders, she finds solace in Twilight and American Horror Story. With a penchant for all things spooky – vampires, ghosts, ghost hunting, and Halloween; she’s all in for the adrenaline rush of a good scare.

In her inspirational gallery, Mother Teresa shines as a guiding light, reminding her of the boundless love and care one can bestow upon the world. Dr. Wayne Dyer’s wisdom serves as a compass for her journey, and, of course, her son Evan is a miracle that lights up her life. Evan’s battle with Fanconi Anemia Type A and Aplastic Anemia Leukemia, where she deftly juggles a team of 23 specialists, seven therapists, scientists, and international researchers, epitomizes perseverance and resilience.

Yet, among her many achievements, her most significant source of pride is her trio of children. Among them, Evan, with his unique healthcare needs, is a beacon of strength and light that fuels her determination.

Looking forward, JackieCat dreams of buying a house, getting married, and excelling in the role of a devoted mother to Evan. She’s even contemplating a foray into the world of rap and dreams of making it big.

For her community, JackieCat has a resounding message: “Do not give up; keep climbing your mountain of life. I know you’re tired; we’re all tired. Stay motivated and keep moving forward.” She sees the stars above as a representation of the myriad questions life poses, and she’s determined to be part of the change, committed to a vision where no one in America should go hungry or be without a home.

JackieCat’s story is of resilience, compassion, and unwavering determination – a true renegade for life.