An Interview with Victor and Dawn Barnett, Leaders of Running Rebels

It’s a magical sight when a once lifeless plant begins to blossom because of the right conditions. According to one of our guests on this episode of Voices of Freedom, working with young people from challenging circumstances is analogous to tending a garden. When someone is struggling or hopeless, it can be hard to see the possibilities ahead for them. Yet with nurturing, understanding and patience, change can take root that allows them to bloom.

For four decades, Running Rebels has intervened in the lives of thousands of young people, helping them become thriving, engaged, contributing citizens. Victor and Dawn Barnett lead Running Rebels together. They share what youth need to thrive and why they’re optimistic about the next generation.

Topics Discussed on this Episode:

• What led Victor and Dawn to dedicate their lives to working with young people
• How Running Rebels filled a void in the Milwaukee area
• The challenges kids face today versus in the 1980s and 90s
• The qualities that make someone a good mentor and how to find mentors
• Organizations across the country that mentor young people
• How to connect with kids who are tough to reach and how to deal with kids who fall back into destructive behaviors
• Running Rebels’ program to help kids succeed while in college
• The biggest misconception about the kids Running Rebels helps
• What gives Dawn and Victor hope for the future

About Victor and Dawn Barnett:

At the age of 19, Victor Barnett saw many of the young people of Milwaukee being pulled into the street life of gangs, crime, and violence. He used basketball as the tool to engage, mentor, and guide youth towards an alternative path that would ensure their future success. From this vision and action, Running Rebels Community Organization was born.

Dawn Barnett’s career began over 20 years ago when she saw a boy playing with a basketball in front of her house. Impressed by his skills, she learned that he was a member of the Running Rebels basketball team. She soon met Victor and was inspired to become involved. Since that time, she has helped turn Running Rebels into an organization that now serves 2,500 youth annually in Milwaukee.