What does it take to create lasting community change? For Charles Griggs, Director of Community Initiatives in Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan's office, the answer lies at the intersection of experience, empathy, and strategic advocacy.

In this candid conversation, Griggs shares insights from his journey through media, marketing, public health, and public service. As the architect behind the relaunch of Jacksonville Journey Forward – a comprehensive initiative addressing crime prevention and community engagement – he brings a uniquely holistic perspective to some of today's most pressing challenges.

"If you don't understand how the machine works, you can't effectively change it," Griggs explains, cutting through the noise of well-intentioned but often ineffective advocacy efforts. With a refreshing blend of historical awareness and forward-thinking pragmatism, he challenges listeners to move beyond simply identifying problems toward developing data-driven, community-supported solutions.

The discussion takes a powerful turn when examining narratives around Black boys and men. Drawing from his role as a board member for National 100 Black Men of America, Griggs articulates how exposure and opportunity create pathways for better choices. "Young people don't know what they don't know," he observes, underscoring the importance of intergenerational mentorship during times of social change and uncertainty.

Whether you're engaged in community work, interested in effective advocacy, or simply trying to make sense of complex social challenges, Griggs offers a masterclass in how principled leadership can bridge divides and create meaningful impact. Listen in and discover why information isn't just power – it's the foundation for transformational change.

Send us a text