Brother Albert Hubert
Albert Hubert (Brother Al) wants to be an agent of change. “There’s a lot of African American men like myself who have these barriers and challenges because of the systemic racism that's within the systems. The systems can be challenged…” Brother Al says his work with Live Well Springfield gives him a platform to let people know that change is possible.
What do you envision for Springfield?
Not only does Brother Al want to enhance the quality of life in Springfield overall, but he wants to help individuals change and find power within themselves—“there will be a world full of challenges and you have to learn how to work through those challenges without being self-destructive. My vision for Springfield is a vibrant, thriving community everyone can have what they need and be safe."
What advice would you give to others who want to start getting involved?
"Community engagement is important to enhance the quality of life in our communities for all. Every voice should be heard and the only way to achieve that is by getting involved in your community."
What issues concern you the most?
"Living in a safe environment where there is no drug use, gun shootings, or violence. I want a high quality education system for our kids, people to have affordable housing, healthy eating options from supermarkets with quality foods, and this will not be achieved without the voices of the community members who do not have these things. Together our voices will make change and a significant impact in our community."
How do you stay involved in advocating even when life is already full of challenges?
"Why not me? Why not be involved instead of being selfish laying on a couch doing nothing? Your voice does count. And that's what we got to remember is important. So I'm gonna just keep doing what I need to do, keep moving forward and everyone else has to as well. Being engaged with your community is a very important mission. A community member's personal experiences and observations lend themselves to more accurate and insightful information that can help not just one individual but entire communities."