Each issue Roxann Latimer will showcase a community resident, business or civic leader who is making an impact on our community. Submit your choice for Community Hero by e mailing this publication or Ms. Latimer directly at awm@africamail.com

For the past ten years, Edward Rivers has been the Director of the Salvation Armys Mens Transitional Housing Program in San Diego, California. The program offers homeless men and ex offenders a second chance at life. Through case management and counseling, men are provided a clean and sober living and assistance with employment and educational placement. Once employed they pay a nominal fee for their room and board in exchange for the services that eventually lead them to independent living and a second chance at a productive life in society.

Rivers will tell you himself that he was not always an upstanding citizen. While enrolled in university he became sidetracked by a life of crime and did a couple of stints in prison. He read an article that changed his life. "It spoke on the fact that there were more African American men in prison than in university. I didnt want to add to that statistic. And I didnt want my children knowing me as a criminal." Rivers speaks in a deep southern accent, belying his roots in North Carolina. Edward returned to school after leaving prison to obtain his degrees in Police Science and Africana Studies from San Diego State University. Rivers is also well known for his support of men exiting prisons with referrals for housing, jobs, ID and confidence building. He also speaks on occasion at Donovan State Prison to men in the Pre parolee program on returning to society.

Mr. Rivers is a devout Muslim who recently married, has been a single father for nearly ten years. Raising his teenage daughter and son has not always been easy, but Mr. Rivers who loves his children, has provided them a secure and stable home with love and traditional parenting guidance.

A community activist as well Mr. Rivers sits on the board of directors as Chairman of Friends of Russell Latimer, Inc., a California non profit corporation that donates medical supplies and equipment to Africa. When not at work or involved in charitable work, or with his family, Mr. Rivers devotes time to his Masjid or in study.

We support Mr. Rivers for his efforts and his successes.

Roxann Latimer