As we approach the 10th Annual LEAD Safe At Home Game, I am thrilled to share my recent experience of completing the 7-week FBI Citizens Academy on May 1, 2024. These seven weeks were incredibly enlightening, allowing me to gain a deeper understanding of the FBI, meet remarkable individuals, and learn from their diverse perspectives. The cohort consisted of business, religious, civic, and community leaders, including the current Atlanta Public Schools Interim Superintendent, Dr. Danielle Battle, who graduated with me.
The FBI plays a crucial role in maintaining national security by investigating a wide range of crimes, including terrorism, cybercrime, counterintelligence, civil rights violations, public corruption, weapons of mass destruction, organized crime, violent crime, and white-collar crime. The organization offers a variety of careers, from special agents and IT specialists to evidence technicians, legal experts, budget analysts, and community outreach specialists.
Speaking of community outreach, I am proud to announce that Christian Foreman and Demetrius Smith, both Community Outreach Specialists for the FBI, are recipients of the 2024 Safe At Home Game Courage Award. Their dedication to bridging the gap between law enforcement and the community is truly commendable.
This year, the FBI will be joining the Safe At Home Game for the first time, adding five players to the Law Enforcement team. The Law Enforcement team will feature representatives from the Atlanta Police, Atlanta Public Schools Police, FBI, Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, and Georgia Tech Police. This diverse representation underscores our collective commitment to community safety and collaboration.
Additionally, on April 19th, 2024, our LEAD CEO, Kelli Stewart, accepted the FBI’s Director Community Leadership Award on behalf of LEAD from FBI Director Christopher A. Wray in Washington, D.C. at the FBI Headquarters. This prestigious award recognizes LEAD’s impactful work and dedication to the community.
We are also honored to have Atlanta Braves legend and current baseball broadcaster Jeff Franceour throwing out the ceremonial first pitch for the August 10th game. Additionally, I will be playing in the game for the first time since its inception, which adds a personal touch to this milestone event.
The Safe At Home Game has always been about more than just baseball; it’s about fostering relationships between law enforcement and the community, promoting understanding, and working together to create a safer environment for everyone. I am excited about the continued growth and impact of this event and look forward to seeing you all there.
Thank you for your unwavering support. Together, we can continue to make a difference.
