Helping people heal from trauma

MEET THE METROPOLITAN PEACE INITIATIVES STAFF

Vaughn Bryant | Executive Director Vaughn Bryant, as Executive Director, coordinates a cross-agency effort involving community-based organizations who are delivering a comprehensive community outreach and engagement model with the goal of reducing gun violence in the city’s highest-risk neighborhoods. Vaughn’s bio

Vanessa DeReef Director of Training, Metropolitan Peace Academy Committed to adding value to those she encounters; Vanessa is currently the Director of Training at the Metropolitan Peace Academy, charged with creating a professional pathway for the street outreach community. With twenty years of experience with The Chicago Public Schools, Vanessa has served in the capacities of teacher, counselor, and building administrator. Vanessa’s bio

Kanu Iheukumere Director of Program Operations Kanu Iheukumere has more than 20 years of community development leadership in the public and private sectors, related to program development, capacity building, policy and research, and legislative advocacy. Kanu’s bio

Domonique F. McCord, A.M., LCSW Director of Behavioral Health Services For the last fifteen years Domonique F. McCord has created space for mental health and healing through her continued work in therapy and wellness. Driven by her passion to help others realize their own potential, Domonique believes that partnerships can build bridges and offer healing for mind, body and spirit. Domonique’s bio

Steve Perkins Director of Field Instruction, Metropolitan Peace Academy Increasing public safety and helping the most disenfranchised residents, primarily the formerly incarcerated and those most prone to gun violence are passions of Steven Perkins. Steven is responsible for managing the Field Managers, who provide technical support and assistance in street outreach to over 20 community areas/sites. Steve’s bio

Leticia Reyes CP4P Assistant Budget Director Leticia is a financial leader with 20 years of increasing responsibility supporting nonprofit excellence and growth to support mission impact. Leticia brings expertise in project-driven financial management, GAAP accounting, reporting, and corporate compliance. She is skilled in cross-functional leadership in cost accounting, financial analysis, business forecasting and budget control. Leticia’s bio

Sonny Thatch Managing Director, CP4P Justice Corps CP4P Justice Corps supports the Metropolitan Peace Initiatives by providing community-based civil legal services in Chicago neighborhoods most impacted by gun violence. These services include but are not limited to criminal and cannabis expungement/sealing, landlord/tenant rights, immigration and human trafficking, and domestic relations. Sonny’s bio

For media inquiries, please contact Bridget Hatch, Media Relations and Marketing Coordinator, at (312) 579-6541  or HatchB@metrofamily.org.