Next Leadership Development
A Journey of Resilience, Community, and Empowerment
Foundation & Mutual Aid
Next Leadership Development was founded by Roy and Atyia Martin as a mutual aid model. They leveraged their limited resources and extensive network to assist Black individuals facing opportunities but hindered by obstacles such as work attire, transportation, or technology.
501(c)3 Designation
Next Leadership Development received its 501(c)3 designation from the IRS, solidifying its commitment to building programs that help Black people transition from survival to thriving.
Boston Resilience Initiative
Next Leadership Development began conducting Resilience Checks for Black people in Boston as part of their Boston Resilience Initiative. These checks were enhanced wellness checks that offered resources and support in addition to checking on well-being.
COVID-19 Response & Programs
• Conducted over 7,000 Resilience Calls to Black people in Boston, focusing on Elders and families
• Initiated the Boston Resilience Builder Summer Program with All Aces, Inc. and Boston Housing Authority
• Served as backbone organization for the Black Boston COVID-19 Coalition (2020-2021)
Community Communication Center
Launched the Community Communication Center to expand the capabilities of the Boston Resilience Initiative. This center allowed them to receive phone calls, text messages, emails, and web chats through a centralized platform.
Boston Resilience Corps
Received FEMA approval to establish the only non-campus Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) in Boston: The Boston Resilience Corps. The CERT curriculum was integrated into the Boston Story & Resilience Builder Program.
Black Resilience Network
Launched the Black Resilience Network, a national coalition of Black organizations, towns, and communities, expanding their impact beyond Boston.
White House Event
The Black Resilience Network hosted its inaugural event at the White House, focusing on climate resilience in Black communities. Twenty-four members shared their experiences with over 50 federal representatives.
National Disaster Response
The BRN Operations Center partnered with community-based organizations to support tornado response in Mississippi and recovery efforts in Lincoln Heights, California, and West Side Chicago, Illinois.
Brookings Institution Convening
Over 20 Black Resilience Network members returned to Washington, D.C., to convene at the Brookings Institution for collective care and to prepare for sharing improvement opportunities with FEMA Headquarters officials.
From mutual aid to national resilience - a journey of community empowerment