Who we are...

Joey Harrison is the in-district Block by Block Operations Manager for the Temescal BID’s maintenance services, where he provides responsive, dedicated, high quality service to the Temescal BID, and takes the lead for specialized services and projects. Prior to Temescal, Mr. Harrison held the position of Team Lead for the Ambassador team in Downtown Berkeley.

Mr. Harrison's background includes years of experience and training, working with individuals experiencing mental health issues, substance abuse issues and homelessness. Utilizing his multilayered experiences, as part of the Temescal BID Pilot Community Engagement Program, Mr. Harrison, along with the ambassadors, engage with all members of the Temescal Community and provide a sense of hospitality, safety and assistance to deal with quality of life issues, as well as providing a welcoming presence in the Temescal District. 

Temescal has seen a significant improvement in community relations, as a direct result of implementations and concepts fashioned by Mr. Harrison. Mr. Harrison has made huge strides within the Temescal community, and beyond. He  has developed  an interactive  and diverse network of community partners with which he works. 

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Joey utilizes his experience and training to increase communication and build relationships with all members of the Temescal Community.. Mr. Harrison provides training on how to compassionately and respectfully interface with persons experiencing homelessness and mental health issues. He has developed a  focused de-escalation training session for businesses and their staff. His training's and methods of approach have led to improved business relations.

The Village of Love was created because Joey recognizes that only as a community, can we begin to make a change. He sees the Village of Love beyond the Bay Area and California. The Village of Love is making a difference, one neighborhood at a time. 

Jerri Forriest comes to The Village of Love with an extensive background in administrative; and business organizational development.  Ms. Forriest's experience includes Patient Coordinator of a Medical Facility, Operations Manager of a Medical Career School, Office Manager of a WIC (Women Infants and  Children) Clinic, Executive Administrator for a Healthy Start Clinic and Operations Coordinator for Run With Us, a social and life educational travel group for women in recovery; or who have experienced trauma. 

Ms. Forriest has organized numerous Community Events to inform, educate and unite. Jerri has facilitated and hosted The Annual WIC Community Baby Shower, Shower of Knowledge, Healthy Start PIC Academy, The Annual Domestic Violence Awareness Workshop, Pillow of Peace Outreach, Toys for Tots with the New Orleans Marines, and countless other events.

Jerri believes that all humans are equal and therefore entitled to basic human rights, no matter where or how they live. Advocating to treat others as you would want to be treated. 

"I am here, even if you pretend you don't see me"

Ms. Forriest has offices located in Louisiana, Ohio and California.  

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(Background Info)