BORN’s roots are embedded in facilitating discussions around building, strengthening, and sustaining healthy and transparent relationships. The BORN mission is to create a safe and inclusive learning environment that fosters a sense of hope and inspiration.

BORN FOUNDER

KENNY OLLINS

Juvenile Justice Expert and Motivational Speaker

Kenneth Ollins, a proud native of Chicago's Northside, grew up in the Cabrini Green Housing Projects, where he was raised by a single mother alongside his four sisters. Despite the challenges of his upbringing, Kenny’s determination led him to graduate from Lincoln Park High School. He went on to attend Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice and became a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. With this achievement, he became the first in his family to graduate from college.

 Kenny’s professional journey took him into the heart of juvenile justice, where he dedicated 30 years as a Juvenile Justice Probation Officer before retiring. Throughout his career, he worked closely with families, schools, and community organizations to build comprehensive support systems for young people. His true strength, however, lies in his natural ability to connect with youth, earning their trust and guiding them through life’s challenges toward positive futures.

 As he steps into the next chapter of his life, Kenny has launched BORN (Building Our Relationships Now), a platform dedicated to fostering positive change and understanding within the community. Drawing on his deep experience in juvenile justice and rehabilitation, BORN is a testament to Kenny’s lifelong commitment to making a difference.

 Beyond his professional endeavors, Kenny is a man of many passions. He enjoys traveling, participating in a chess club, and staying fit. His talents also extend to the screen. As a member of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG), Kenny has appeared in regional and national commercials for brands like McDonald’s, Walgreens, DiGiorno, and Budweiser, and even had a guest role on NBC's Mind Games. As a model with Stewart Talent, he has been featured in editorials for major brands, including McDonald’s, Sears, American Family Insurance, Home Depot, and Motorola.

 Kenny’s journey is one of perseverance, dedication, and a profound commitment to uplifting others, both within his community and beyond.

THE BORN INITIATIVE

“It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.” ~ Frederick Douglass

As a retired Juvenile Probation Officer with 30 years in the field, I’ve witnessed firsthand the truth of that statement. With early action, we can combat the behavioral, emotional, and mental trauma inflicted upon our youth and provide them with the tools to navigate the complexity of life’s challenges.

The BORN Initiative provides services that address the needs of our youth, parents, community, and school staff. Through the transparency of sharing my own story of being a product of the Cabrini Green housing projects and real-world experience, I can deliver content that is relatable and non-confrontational. Delivered via interactive discussions, motivational talks, guided workshops, and community forums. Our main targets and services are as follows:

Target Audience:

• Grammar School (Grades 5-8) and High School, Teachers and Administrators,
• School Counselors and Support Staff
• Parents/Guardians (for specific sessions)

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  • Description: Utilizing evidence-based research that has proven to have both positive and negative impacts in forecasting educational and life successes of our youth, this program engages students in developing conflict resolution skills, improving decision-making, and better understand the consequences of their actions. This program is often provided in 4 parts, with special emphasis on themes including social media, drugs and alcohol, peer pressure, self-control, personal accountably, and resilience.

    Format: IInteractive discussions, Q&A sessions, and motivational talks designed to resonate with students of diverse backgrounds, including those at-risk.

    Duration: 60 minutes each session

  • Description: Offering training and professional development for teachers, administrators, and support staff on identifying and addressing the needs of at-risk youth. Sessions will provide strategies for early intervention, building rapport with students, and navigating challenging situations within the school setting.

    Format: Seminars or roundtable discussions with actionable strategies and case studies based on real- life juvenile probation scenarios.

    Duration: 60-90 minutes.

  • Description: Hosting sessions for parents/guardians and community stakeholders to promote positive youth development and proactive involvement in preventing juvenile delinquency. Emphasis on communication, monitoring, and support at home and in the community.

    Format: Evening or weekend workshops with open discussions, resources, and guidance.

    Duration: 60 minutes.

    Format: Evening or weekend workshops with open discussions, resources, and guidance.

    Duration: 60 minutes.


  • Increase students' awareness of the juvenile justice system and its consequences

    Provide students with tools and strategies for making positive choices, equip staff with knowledge and techniques for early intervention and support

    Engage parents/guardians in active participation in their children’s lives

    Foster a supportive school environment that understands and addresses the challenges faced by at-risk youth

    Session Frequency:

    Can be scheduled as single, standalone events or part of an ongoing series across the academic year.

    Contact Information:

    For further details or to schedule sessions, please contact:

    Building Our Relationships Now (BORN) by Kenny Ollins

    Phone: 773-484-5189

    Email: bornshow@gmail.com

    Website: bornshow.com

    CPS Vendor Number: 45774