by Messiah Fagerholm, Jeremiah Conyers, and Gregory Davis

Jerrell Davis was honored with a send-off on February 4, 2025, by the RBAC staff, family, and friends as he left his position at RBAC. Jerrell was a pioneering employee who played a key role in establishing the Corner Greeters, YATTA Rising, The Circle Keepers Network, and RBAC’s Transformation Strategist work.

During his send-off, attendees were asked to share what Jerrell contributed to the culture of RBAC. The following list was compiled from their responses:

Friend. Mentor. He models being a young Black man who is intelligent and not afraid to show it. Hardworking. Kuumba (Creativity). Mom’s hedge of protection. He pours his heart out. Community builder. He has a great support system. He has a genuine interest. Compassion. He implements knowledge to be a better Black man. He brings energy. He is supportive. He is a leader. He has aspirations. He is a great advice giver.

He always wants to share his gift. Helps out. How to give back to the community. Great heart. Love’s laughter and growth mindsets.  Life Long Learner. Uplifting young people. Tenacious. Steadfast. Creative artistry. Ability of Connection. Checking in. Positive energy. Truth-telling. Intention. Sundowning pivots. Optimism. Open minded. Perspective. Pours into you. Time dedication. Inspiring. Calm influencer. Showing that you care. RBAC Culture. Being able to connect. Lightness that makes things easier. Safe. Comfortable. Thinker.

Jerrell is the epitome of a Strategist who challenges systems and Encourages others to think more expansively. He is the cornerstone. Unapologetic about setting the bar. Dynamism of a young man whose name precedes him. Work with young people. Encourager. Shows love and respect. Genuinely inspires. Garden Gremlin. Bringing along generations. Unexplainable. Welcoming. He helps us learn easily. Dreams about saving the home team. For culture work: Circles – steward of a culture of solidarity. Energy. Wisdom. Brother.

Attendees were told that if these elements are indeed RBAC culture, they should not leave with Jerrell’s departure; they are now the standard bearers. They accepted the challenge.

Jerrell has spent years of his life in the Rainier Beach neighborhood as a member of RBAC. But also as a pillar of community leadership, and an artist. From the YATTA Rising to the new Food Innovation Center, Jerrell has and continues to support the community. He knows that the young people and young community leaders are the people that will lead into the future, and their ideas that will push the community forward.

Never fear. Jerrell will continue serving on the Executive Council to ensure the RBAC culture remains intact.

“From the skyscrapers in New York, to the garden beds in Rainier Beach. It all started as an idea in someone’s mind.”
-Rell Be Free

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