Yes, it's the right page! EIN 81-3420615
About Us
Our Identity
The Surge Project is a grassroots organization committed to creating pathways to opportunity and wellbeing for youth and communities. With decades of collective experience in counseling, education, community development, and deep roots in the communities we serve, our team understands the challenges families face.
Our History
Our founder, Te'Andria Ellis, got the phone call no family can prepare for, hearing the words... "your brother is dead". Her brother's life was cut short at the age of 22 by two teens in June 2012. Although her mother was devastated, as the convicted teens were sentenced she spoke these powerful words... "neither one of us wins". That moment fueled her commitment to deepen her work with community. After extensive effort and preparation, the organization launched in June 2016
Our Mission
Our mission is to address the interlocking forces that shape pathways to harm and co-create adaptable solutions with communities to break cycles of gun violence, foster hope, and support healing, economic mobility, and opportunity.
We partner closely with residents, schools, and local leaders to deliver programs that foster long-term stability, resilience, and collective safety.
Our Vision
To create safer communities where families can thrive.
Our Philosophy
- We bridge the gap between what seems unlikely and what becomes possible.
- We dismantle barriers rooted in inequity and limited opportunity.
- We help communities rediscover their strength and confront what feels overwhelming.
- We act as a catalyst for community-driven transformation.
Did you know?
- In Alabama, 54% of gun deaths are suicide. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, suicide is defined as death caused by self-directed injurious behavior with intent to die as a result of the behavior. It is a public health crisis.
- African Americans are at particular risk for mental health illness due to an overrepresentation in homeless populations, people who are incarcerated, children in foster care and child welfare systems, and victims of serious violent crime.
Who we are and what we offer are actually basic necessities.
TRANSFORM THE WORLD WITH US!
Your support and contributions will enable us to meet our goals and improve the social health in communities throughout Jefferson County.
