Avery Lafayette

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE JUNE 4, 2023 Grass Roots Introduces Game-Changing Education Empowerment Program for Youth Overcoming Socioeconomic Barriers Los Santos, San Andreas – Grass Roots is thrilled to announce the launch of its groundbreaking Education Empowerment Program. This initiative aims to provide grants to deserving youth, opening doors to education and fostering success for those who face significant barriers to advancement. The Grass Roots Education Empowerment Program is designed to address the disparities faced by disadvantaged youth in our communities. Through this program, we aspire to equip individuals with the necessary resources and support to pursue educational programs that will unlock their full potential. "We firmly believe that education is the most powerful tool for positive change," said Dionne Lafayette, co-founder of Grass Roots. "The Education Empowerment Program is our commitment to providing equitable opportunities and creating a level playing field for all young individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic background." Furthermore, Grass Roots is proud to announce Franklin Chambers as the inaugural recipient of the Education Empowerment Program. Franklin has been granted financial assistance to pursue a degree in Business Administration at the prestigious University of Los Santos. This grant will cover tuition fees, textbooks, and other essential educational expenses to alleviate the financial burden on Franklin, allowing him to focus on his studies and future aspirations. "We are thrilled to support Franklin on his educational journey," said Avery Lafayette, Founder of Grass Roots and spokesperson. "Franklin's dedication and determination to excel in his studies are commendable, and we are confident that he will make a significant impact in the field!" The Grass Roots Education Empowerment Program also offers comprehensive support to recipients, including mentorship opportunities, networking events, and access to additional resources to enhance their educational experience. By fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment, Grass Roots aims to empower the next generation of leaders and change-makers from underserved communities. If you're interested in receiving grants from the Education Empowerment Program, please fill out the form below: CLICK ME. Through collective efforts, we can bridge the opportunity divide and forge a path towards a more inclusive and prosperous society. For more information on Grass Roots and its initiatives, please visit our Facebrowser page at: @grass-roots Media Contact: [email protected] (008) 017-02 ###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE JUNE 4, 2023 Grass Roots Introduces Game-Changing Education Empowerment Program for Youth Overcoming Socioeconomic Barriers Los Santos, San Andreas – Grass Roots is thrilled to announce the launch of its groundbreaking Education Empowerment Program. This initiative aims to provide grants to deserving youth, opening doors to education and fostering success for those who face significant barriers to advancement. The Grass Roots Education Empowerment Program is designed to address the disparities faced by disadvantaged youth in our communities. Through this program, we aspire to equip individuals with the necessary resources and support to pursue educational programs that will unlock their full potential. "We firmly believe that education is the most powerful tool for positive change," said Dionne Lafayette, co-founder of Grass Roots. "The Education Empowerment Program is our commitment to providing equitable opportunities and creating a level playing field for all young individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic background." Furthermore, Grass Roots is proud to announce Franklin Chambers as the inaugural recipient of the Education Empowerment Program. Franklin has been granted financial assistance to pursue a degree in Business Administration at the prestigious University of Los Santos. This grant will cover tuition fees, textbooks, and other essential educational expenses to alleviate the financial burden on Franklin, allowing him to focus on his studies and future aspirations. "We are thrilled to support Franklin on his educational journey," said Avery Lafayette, Founder of Grass Roots and spokesperson. "Franklin's dedication and determination to excel in his studies are commendable, and we are confident that he will make a significant impact in the field!" The Grass Roots Education Empowerment Program also offers comprehensive support to recipients, including mentorship opportunities, networking events, and access to additional resources to enhance their educational experience. By fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment, Grass Roots aims to empower the next generation of leaders and change-makers from underserved communities. If you're interested in receiving grants from the Education Empowerment Program, please fill out the form below: CLICK ME. Through collective efforts, we can bridge the opportunity divide and forge a path towards a more inclusive and prosperous society. For more information on Grass Roots and its initiatives, please visit our Facebrowser page at: @grass-roots Media Contact: [email protected] (008) 017-02 ###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE JUNE 4, 2023 Grass Roots Introduces Game-Changing Education Empowerment Program for Youth Overcoming Socioeconomic Barriers Los Santos, San Andreas – Grass Roots is thrilled to announce the launch of its groundbreaking Education Empowerment Program. This initiative aims to provide grants to deserving youth, opening doors to education and fostering success for those who face significant barriers to advancement. The Grass Roots Education Empowerment Program is designed to address the disparities faced by disadvantaged youth in our communities. Through this program, we aspire to equip individuals with the necessary resources and support to pursue educational programs that will unlock their full potential. "We firmly believe that education is the most powerful tool for positive change," said Dionne Lafayette, co-founder of Grass Roots. "The Education Empowerment Program is our commitment to providing equitable opportunities and creating a level playing field for all young individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic background." Furthermore, Grass Roots is proud to announce Franklin Chambers as the inaugural recipient of the Education Empowerment Program. Franklin has been granted financial assistance to pursue a degree in Business Administration at the prestigious University of Los Santos. This grant will cover tuition fees, textbooks, and other essential educational expenses to alleviate the financial burden on Franklin, allowing him to focus on his studies and future aspirations. "We are thrilled to support Franklin on his educational journey," said Avery Lafayette, Founder of Grass Roots and spokesperson. "Franklin's dedication and determination to excel in his studies are commendable, and we are confident that he will make a significant impact in the field!" The Grass Roots Education Empowerment Program also offers comprehensive support to recipients, including mentorship opportunities, networking events, and access to additional resources to enhance their educational experience. By fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment, Grass Roots aims to empower the next generation of leaders and change-makers from underserved communities. If you're interested in receiving grants from the Education Empowerment Program, please fill out the form below: CLICK ME. Through collective efforts, we can bridge the opportunity divide and forge a path towards a more inclusive and prosperous society. For more information on Grass Roots and its initiatives, please visit our Facebrowser page at: @grass-roots Media Contact: [email protected] (008) 017-02 ###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MAY 30, 2023 Grass Roots Launches Community Beautification Initiative to Revitalize South Los Santos and Combat Overflowing Trash Los Santos, San Andreas – Grass Roots, a dedicated non-profit organization committed to uplifting inner-city communities, proudly announces the successful completion of its transformative Community Beautification Initiative in South Los Santos. The initiative, which took place on May 30th, witnessed an inspiring turnout of local volunteers who lent a hand in cleaning up overflowing trash. Furthermore, Grass Roots expresses deep gratitude for the generous donation of a garbage disposal truck that significantly contributed to the cleanup efforts. South Los Santos, a vibrant community with a rich cultural heritage, had unfortunately faced neglect in recent years, resulting in the accumulation of excessive trash and a decline in its visual appeal. Recognizing the urgency to restore the neighborhood's beauty and foster community pride, Grass Roots took decisive action through the Community Beautification Initiative. With their unwavering dedication and hard work, they made a significant impact in cleaning up the community and restoring its vibrancy. "We are overjoyed by the success of our Community Beautification Initiative and sincerely appreciate the support of our incredible volunteers and the generous donation of the garbage disposal truck," said Avery Lafayette, spokesperson for Grass Roots. "Together, we have taken an important step towards rejuvenating South Los Santos and creating a community that we can all take pride in." The Community Beautification Initiative not only addressed the pressing issue of overflowing trash but also inspired a renewed sense of community spirit and unity. Grass Roots extends its heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers, community members, and organizations that played a part in this remarkable endeavor. Moving forward, Grass Roots remains dedicated to continuing its efforts in empowering the South Los Santos community. Through ongoing initiatives, partnerships, and collaborative projects, the organization will strive to create lasting positive change, foster employment opportunities, and provide resources for the community's growth and well-being. For more information on Grass Roots and its initiatives, please visit our Facebrowser page at: @grass-roots Media Contact: [email protected] (008) 017-02 ###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MAY 30, 2023 Grass Roots Launches Community Beautification Initiative to Revitalize South Los Santos and Combat Overflowing Trash Los Santos, San Andreas – Grass Roots, a dedicated non-profit organization committed to uplifting inner-city communities, proudly announces the successful completion of its transformative Community Beautification Initiative in South Los Santos. The initiative, which took place on May 30th, witnessed an inspiring turnout of local volunteers who lent a hand in cleaning up overflowing trash. Furthermore, Grass Roots expresses deep gratitude for the generous donation of a garbage disposal truck that significantly contributed to the cleanup efforts. South Los Santos, a vibrant community with a rich cultural heritage, has unfortunately faced neglect in recent years, resulting in the accumulation of excessive trash and a decline in its visual appeal. Recognizing the urgency to restore the neighborhood's beauty and foster community pride, Grass Roots has taken the decisive action through the Community Beautification Initiative. With their unwavering dedication and hard work, we have made a significant impact in cleaning up the community and restoring its vibrancy. "We are overjoyed by the success of our Community Beautification Initiative and sincerely appreciate the support of our incredible volunteers and the generous donation of the garbage disposal truck," said Avery Lafayette, spokesperson for Grass Roots. "Together, we have taken an important step towards rejuvenating South Los Santos and creating a community that we can all take pride in." The Community Beautification Initiative not only addressed the pressing issue of overflowing trash but also inspired a renewed sense of community spirit and unity. Grass Roots extends its heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers, community members, and organizations that played a part in this remarkable endeavor. Moving forward, Grass Roots remains dedicated to continuing its efforts in empowering the South Los Santos community. Through ongoing initiatives, partnerships, and collaborative projects, the organization will strive to create lasting positive change, foster employment opportunities, and provide resources for the community's growth and well-being. For more information on Grass Roots and its initiatives, please visit our Facebrowser page at: @grass-roots Media Contact: [email protected] (008) 017-02 ###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MAY 30, 2023 Grass Roots Launches Community Beautification Initiative to Revitalize South Los Santos and Combat Overflowing Trash Los Santos, San Andreas – Grass Roots, a dedicated non-profit organization committed to uplifting inner-city communities, proudly announces the successful completion of its transformative Community Beautification Initiative in South Los Santos. The initiative, which took place on May 30th, witnessed an inspiring turnout of local volunteers who lent a hand in cleaning up overflowing trash. Furthermore, Grass Roots expresses deep gratitude for the generous donation of a garbage disposal truck that significantly contributed to the cleanup efforts. South Los Santos, a vibrant community with a rich cultural heritage, had unfortunately faced neglect in recent years, resulting in the accumulation of excessive trash and a decline in its visual appeal. Recognizing the urgency to restore the neighborhood's beauty and foster community pride, Grass Roots took decisive action through the Community Beautification Initiative. With their unwavering dedication and hard work, they made a significant impact in cleaning up the community and restoring its vibrancy. "We are overjoyed by the success of our Community Beautification Initiative and sincerely appreciate the support of our incredible volunteers and the generous donation of the garbage disposal truck," said Avery Lafayette, spokesperson for Grass Roots. "Together, we have taken an important step towards rejuvenating South Los Santos and creating a community that we can all take pride in." The Community Beautification Initiative not only addressed the pressing issue of overflowing trash but also inspired a renewed sense of community spirit and unity. Grass Roots extends its heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers, community members, and organizations that played a part in this remarkable endeavor. Moving forward, Grass Roots remains dedicated to continuing its efforts in empowering the South Los Santos community. Through ongoing initiatives, partnerships, and collaborative projects, the organization will strive to create lasting positive change, foster employment opportunities, and provide resources for the community's growth and well-being. For more information on Grass Roots and its initiatives, please visit our Facebrowser page at: @grass-roots Media Contact: [email protected] (008) 017-02 ###

A Community Leader with a Mission: Meet Avery Lafayette Written by David Buckley - May 21, 2023 Avery and his wife, Dionne. Avery Lafayette spent much of his childhood walking the streets of South Central Los Santos with little hope of what his future would bring. But since his rough-and-tumble childhood, Avery has become a beacon of hope for his community, determined to create positive change through his organization, Grass Roots. A 44-year-old native of South Central L.S., Avery has been a lifelong resident. In his youth, he watched his home become known for violent outbreaks of crime, riots, and crippling poverty. He constantly wondered if there was something that could be done to improve the community he called home. A seed of an idea was planted in his mind through his participation in a school-based youth program—that the people of South Central should have access to resources and opportunities that could help them build a better future for themselves and their families. Moreover, that change starts with young people. "In my work, I often thought about the great Frederick Douglass quote, 'It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men,'" Lafayette said in an interview with the Los Santos Insider. It's this idea that eventually spurred Avery to found Grass Roots, a non-profit organization that serves to empower residents of South Central through education, employment training, and fundraising. With the help of a small group of dedicated volunteers, Avery worked tirelessly to create a space where the people of South Central could find a voice and come together in unity. Grass Roots has since grown into a multi-faceted operation, offering dozens of services to the area's residents. When asked about how he inspires himself in his work, Avery simply responds, “I believe in the power of community and I’m a firm believer in the saying ‘it takes a village to raise a child.’” Since the founding of Grass Roots, Avery has applied this philosophy in his organization’s initiatives, using various types of outreach and connecting residents with local organizations for career consultation, after school programs, and other essential services. But its mission statement still remains the same: “To create a bridge between the economically disadvantaged communities of South Central Los Santos and the resources and opportunities that can help to build a brighter future.” Under Avery's leadership, Grass Roots has made great strides in helping individuals and families in South Central Los Santos find jobs, gain financial support, access educational resources, and more. Most recently, the organization began working on a youth program named "Hoops for Youths." Outside of his day-to-day work with Grass Roots, Avery still finds time to give back to the community in countless ways. He volunteers in local classrooms, participates in public events, and devotes his time to helping people in need. He views his work as a way to give back to the community he grew up in and to set an example for the youth. When asked how he gets his inspiration, Avery replies, “I think about the faces of the children in the communities I serve and how much of an impact I can make in their lives. I want to help them understand that they have the power to create the future they want.” Avery's hard work and dedication to create a better future for South Central has not gone unnoticed. Earlier this year, he was selected as a finalist for the Urban League's National Youth Leadership award. Though much work still needs to be done, Avery is optimistic about the future. He believes that by working together and continuing to support each other, the people of South Central can come together to create a brighter future. For Avery, it's more than just a dream. It's a goal he's willing to work hard to make a reality. For information can be found on Grass Roots here: https://face.gta.world/pages/grassroots

| Amplifying Voices, Empowering Communities 09/05/2023 By Avery Lafayette The Inner Cities' Lack of Opportunity: A Call for Transformation Throughout my 44 years on this planet, I've dedicated a significant chunk of my life to fighting for civil rights. It's a cause that sets my soul ablaze, driving me to bring about real change in our flawed system. I've personally witnessed the rampant injustices that plague our society, and those experiences have only fueled my passion and reinforced my unwavering commitment to challenging the systems that breed inequality. The reason I embarked on this project many moons ago and have been tirelessly campaigning for nearly two decades is simple: to amplify the voices of those who've long been silenced. Let me tell you something—I've lived in these inner cities, 'the hood', my entire life, and let me assure you, they are bursting with untapped potential and vibrant communities. It's our shared responsibility to invest in their success, to pave the way toward a future brimming with hope and endless possibilities. Now let's talk about the elephant in the room, the key to unlocking what I touched on: we must kick down the barriers holding back our inner-city youth, particularly our African-American brothers and sisters. It's time to unleash their true potential by demolishing the roadblocks that stand in our way. Readers, it's vital that we acknowledge these pressing issues and engage in open dialogue. That's why I feel compelled to shed light on this matter, to evoke empathy, and ignite a collective flame for change. Here's the deal: there's an ongoing battle against opportunity within our inner cities. Let's be crystal clear, the inner cities have borne the brunt of a historical legacy of systemic injustices that have perpetuated racial and socioeconomic disparities. From the dark days of slavery to the era of segregation, our communities have faced discrimination, exclusion, and unequal treatment. These injustices have created an environment where opportunities are scarce and leaving generations trapped in a vicious cycle of limited access to education, healthcare, and employment. Education is the key to unlocking the potentil within our inner cities. However, the educational systems in our areas are often victims of chronic underfunding, overcrowded classrooms, and suffer from outdated resources. This unjust reality stifles the growth and aspirations of our folks, perpetuating a cycle of limited opportunities. To bridge the opportunity gap, we gotta fight for fair funding and resources in our inner-city schools. This means lobbying our elected officials/school board and demanding they provide modern facilities, well-trained educators, and comprehensive programs tailored to meet the unique needs of students, every student. We need economic empowerment by nurturing a culture of entrepreneurship. Access to capital, business development support, and networking opportunities are crucial for budding entrepreneurs to thrive. But here's the rub, access to capital remains a major hurdle for our youth. We must work to expand financial resources, including grants, loans, and venture capital, specifically designed to support businesses in the inner cities. And finally, my friends, it's high time the inner cities and our communities had a true champion at the highest levels of government. We need a leader who doesn't just give empty promises like a faulty vending machine, but one who will boldly step up and fight for our cause like a warrior armed with truth and determination. We need someone who understands the struggles of our streets, the aspirations of our youth, and the pressing need for change. A leader who can navigate the treacherous waters of politics with the finesse of a tightrope walker, while still keeping their compass pointed firmly toward justice and support for our communities. A salt of the earth, one of our people. We don't need a leader who sees our communities and inner cities as a mere photo op, popping in for a quick smile and a wave before jetting off to their ivory towers. No, we need someone who will roll up their sleeves, get down in the trenches, and truly listen to the voices of our communities. Remember, change begins at the top. It's time to elevate our voices and demand representation that reflects the struggles and dreams of our communities.

Founded two decades ago in South Los Santos, Grass Roots emerged as a beacon of hope in an underserved community. The non-profit was established by Avery Lafeyette and his wife Dionne, individuals deeply respected and admired within the community for their tireless dedication to social justice and community empowerment. Their names may not be widely recognized beyond the local community, but their impact is deeply ingrained in the lives theyhave touched. Avery and Dionne Lafeyette, driven by their own experiences growing up in a challenging environment, intimately understood the obstacles faced by the those in urban areas. Witnessing the untapped potential and talent within these communities, they embarked on a mission to create a transformative idea that would break the cycle of disadvantage and empower individuals to reach their full potential. From its humble beginnings, Grass Roots has steadily grown into an organization that tackles the multifaceted issues faced by inner city communities. Volunteers, local businesses, and passionate individuals rallied behind the Lafeyettes' vision, recognizing the power of collective action in effect in change. Their combined efforts and unwavering dedication have been instrumental in the organization's success. Over the years, Grass Roots has developed a comprehensive range of programs and initiatives designed to address the holistic needs of young individuals. Mentorship initiatives provide guidance and support, educational programs, offer academic resources and scholarships, arts and cultural enrichment and foster creativity and self-expression. Grass Roots also ensures access to essential resources such as nutritious meals, healthcare, and safe recreational spaces, promoting the overall well-being of our community. The impact of Grass Roots extends far beyond immediate outcomes. By nurturing the dreams and aspirations of the youth, the organization instills a sense of resilience, confidence, and empowerment that ripples through generations. As individuals supported by Grass Roots go on to become leaders, role models, and advocates within their communities, the transformative power of the organization's work becomes evident. In addition to its direct services, Grass Roots actively collaborates with other community organizations, government agencies, and stakeholders to advocate for systemic changes. By amplifying the voices of those often marginalized and engaging in policy discussions, Grass Roots strives to dismantle the structural barriers that perpetuate inequality and limited opportunities for inner city youth. The journey has not been without challenges, but Grass Roots remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing the potential of every person. The unwavering dedication of its volunteers, staff, and supporters, coupled with a deep belief in the inherent worth and limitless possibilities of each individual, continue to fuel the organization's growth and impact. Looking ahead, Grass Roots envisions a future where every child in South Los Santos and beyond can thrive and fulfill their aspirations. Our organization is committed to expanding its reach, forging new partnerships, and embracing innovation to further amplify its impact. Grass Roots aims to be at the forefront of transformative change, inspiring not only its immediate community but also society at large. Grass Roots is fueled by the unwavering support and generosity of individuals like you. As a non-profit organization devoted to helping inner city communities, we rely on the collective strength of our donors, volunteers, and partners to make a tangible difference in the lives of children and families. Your donation is vital in creating lasting change and enabling us to provide essential programs, resources, and opportunities to those who need them most. Whether you choose to contribute a small amount or a more substantial gift, every dollar counts and has the power to transform dreams into reality. To make a donation to Grass Roots, simply use our routing number, which is 010058758, to facilitate the transfer from your financial institution. Your contribution will go directly towards supporting initiatives that empower young minds, foster growth, and break down barriers. Together, we can build a brighter future for our communities, one donation at a time. Contact Us. We would love to hear from you! Whether you have questions, would like to volunteer, make a donation, or have a general inquiry, please feel free to contact us using the information below. Email: [email protected] Phone: (008) 017-02 Facebrowser: @grassroots