This month The Light 103.9FM, spotlights the Cape Fear Regional Bureau For Community Action, Inc. This recognition is set aside for an organization that has dedicated it’s time, energy, resources and a voice for social justice, and equality to the underserved residents in communities across North Carolina.
I uncovered this diamond in the rough and recently, got a chance to spend time with the staff and participants of what’s known to communities as “The Bureau” and the experience was one that I will never forget. I walked in with little knowledge of what a Community Based Organization was, and how it’s existence was of value, and walked away enlightened to the fact that there are many community organizations that carry the title of a non-profit, however I now realize that not all who see themselves as an outreach organization reaches those who are truly in need.
Under the leadership of Mr. Ashley Rozier, II, the Cape Fear Regional Bureau For Community Action, Inc., was established in 1989 and has remained a safe haven to communities throughout North Carolina. Traveling in to neighborhoods that are stricken with poverty, drug infestation, and are high risk areas for HIV /AIDS, “The Bureau” did not always receive a warm welcome. Mr. Rozier recalls times of being stomped, slapped, and beaten, but with the dawn of new day; “The Bureau” was still standing.
Being the pioneer of new traditional (non-traditional) outreach and prevention case management, “The Bureau” recognized that these community residents are viewed as “the forgotten” by the average person or public health representative, but to Mr. Rozier and the staff of professionals; “The Bureau” sees them as God’s creation, and vows to mirror Jesus and travel the highways or byways to reach those in need. Located at 110 ½ Gillespie Street, in downtown Fayetteville has chosen to keep its primary offices in the same location from day one. Mr. Rozier says “that “The Bureau” is willing to sacrifice comfort for community” using funding and donations to aid those in the community that cannot afford medicines, transportation to dialysis treatments, “The Bureau” also serves as a primary partner that’s called upon by other organizations who are charged with providing assistance to communities across the state, and to date have provided assistance to thousands of underserved citizens, with resources like health screenings, that include HIV, cholesterol, diabetes, blood pressure, and the list goes on. The efforts applied every day, separates “The Bureau” from other community based organization, and some of the methods used might be seen as controversial, but after speaking with several clients in the program, I learned that doing the unpopular thing is not always understood, but using non-traditional methods to reach those that are in need, and underserved, has resulted in many lives be transformed, and hope restored….simply put its saved many lives.
Also, I would like to state that I spoke with citizens of the community who spoke with compassion about the positive impact “The Bureau” has had on their lives, and where they would be if this tiny building with a big heart had not used the true meaning of “Grass Roots” ministry to reach them. The most remarkable participant was a young gentleman who was diagnosed with HIV, and in addition to living with this horrible disease, suffered with hearing loss, and with bitter sweet sentiments he credited Mr. Rozier and his dedication to sticking to the mission of “The Bureau”, with being able to hear the dawn of a new day, and all of its beauty.
Mr. Ashley Rozier, II is emphatic about the work of the Bureau being a joint effort between him and his staff; however, the staff is a direct reflection of the efforts and passion of Mr. Ashley Rozier, II. He has lead by example, traveling through the projects of many communities, and has been received by drug dealers, prostitutes, who have spoken him to be a savior. He has taken attributes from three historians, Jesus, Malcolm X, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. His passion and respect of these three men, is what drives him to continue with the joy that comes from the 3 layers of love: GOD, MAN, LIFE.
For more information on Cape Fear Regional Bureau For Community Action, Inc. please contact the Bureau at 910.483.9177.
