Here at the Melanin Marvel we like to spotlight and bring attention to businesses and organizations that assist and uplift the Black community. Recently, we got a chance to interview Ms. Olivia Koukoui, who is the founder of We Care Services, Corp. Her education and career in criminal justice and reform lead her to a vision to help those in need of assistance when transitioning back into the world after incarceration. As we all know, blacks are disproportionately exposed into the legal/justice system and many times a lack of funds or lack of a strong support system leave many in our community vulnerable when trying to complete court requirements and ultimately bettering their lives after incarceration. Olivia saw a need and is taking a stand to try and garner that support. See our interview below and get involved.
Q: What is We Care Services Corp and how did you get started?
A: WCS, Corp is a non-profit organization that provides affordable transportation for people with legal obligations who are in need of medical, legal and supportive services. WCS got started with just an idea to solve a problem within the criminal justice field.
Q: What was your passion behind starting this non-profit organization?
A: As a former probation officer and in my current position as a senior policy analyst, I notice a common barrier among formerly incarcerated individuals and that is reliable and affordable transportation. My goal with starting WCS is to provide reliable and affordable transportation for people who need it the most.
Q: How important is an organization like yours to the black community and what do you wish to accomplish in the future?
A: There is overwhelming evidence that there is a racial disparity in the United States criminal justice system. African Americans make up 12% of the U.S. population, yet in 2014, 34% of the correctional population were African Americans, Despite these numbers, services to help returning citizens are not always accessible for the black community. WCS removes the barrier of transportation and our goal for the future is to be a strong presence in the black community and for the returning citizens to rely on our services for another chance at becoming a law abiding citizen.
Q: What services does your non-profit organization offer?
A: Current, WCS provides affordable transportation for adults who have a legal obligation to a court. Transportation can be provided to any legal, medical or supportive services. WCS offers 3 monthly membership plans that each participant must enroll in. Plan A is 10 rides for $25, Plan B is for 18 rides for $45 and Plan C is 26 rides for $75.
Q: How can people contact you to donate or to get involved with your organization?
A: All donations can be made at wcscorp.org and we can be reached at the following:
EMAIL: wecare@wcscorp.org
PHONE: (518) 620-6343
WEBSITE: wcscorp.org
IG/TWITTER: @wcscorp
FACEBOOK: @wcscorp.org
Olivia Koukoui, Founder, We Care Services Corp
Thank you so much for the opportunity to speak about who we are and what we do! With your help we can reach so many people people in need. We truly appreciate this
ReplyDelete