NAME: Michael Sanders

DEPARTMENT: Community Programs 

TITLE: Community Resources Manager

BACKGROUND:

• BA in Political Science, Henderson State University; Masters in Criminal Justice (emphasis in Juvenile Justice), UALR
• 2007 – 2015 Development Manager, AR. Department of Human Services Division of Youth Services
• 2005 – 2007 Director, Interfaith Hospitality Network (Services for homeless families with children)
• 2002 – 2005 Diversion Supervisor, Pulaski County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office 

HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED FOR THE CITY OF LITTLE ROCK?

1 year and 4 months in my current position but have worked part-time/volunteered for the city since 1990 as a Summer-Seasonal Worker; Vision Little Rock Member; After School Prevention Vendor; Recreation Center Aide/Coach/Referee; RFQ Bid Reviewer; Children Youth and Families Commissioner; Summer Youth Employment Trainer/Worksite Supervisor.

WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR JOB?

Develop and manage community resources and key partnerships with various agencies and organizations to prevent and end cycles of community violence and juvenile delinquency in the City of Little Rock; develop and roll-out pilot programs/initiatives for youth intervention/prevention; provide budget oversight to the prevention, intervention, and treatment (PIT) and anti-tobacco programs; oversee the recruitment, training, and placement of youth in the Summer Youth Employment Program; facilitate the RFQ/Bid process to procure and select service providers; present information, answers questions, provide written and oral reports to the Board of Directors, staff committees, and various organizations regarding contracts, special programs, Departmental program activities and related projects; serve on various boards, committees, and task forces to promote awareness of Departmental programs and increase collaboration with key community organizations.

WHAT IS THE MOST MEANINGFUL PART OF YOUR WORK?

Giving back to the youth, helping them to feel safe, supported, and inspired! Keeping in mind that I was once in a similar situation.

WHAT SHOULD CITIZENS KNOW ABOUT YOUR DEPARTMENT/PROGRAM?

We are the smallest Department within City Government but are tasked with one of the biggest, most daunting, and most important/challenging responsibilities: Positively affecting the lives of Little Rocks children, youth, and families in a way that they can achieve a sustainable and meaningful quality of life!

WHAT IS A FACT ABOUT YOU THAT MIGHT SURPRISE PEOPLE?

I am the Youth Pastor at the New Dora Baptist Church in McAlmont. 

WHAT IS DOWNTIME FOR YOU?

Coaching/watching Youth Sports, spending time with family, and fishing!

FAVORITE PLACE IN LITTLE ROCK?

At home with my wife and three boys!

WHAT ONE WORD, PHRASE, OR QUOTE CAPTURES WHO YOU ARE?

I am “Blessed and Highly Favored,” always remembering that “to whom much is given much is required”!