Reverend Leon Kelly
Executive Director of Open Door Youth Gang Alternatives

Reverend Kelly is the heart and soul of Open Door Youth Gang Alternatives. Since 1987, Reverend Kelly has given his life to helping children find alternatives to violence and gang related activities. Having experienced difficult times as a young man in the late 1970's (he served three years in a penitentiary on a 5-8 year sentence), Leon Kelly has since worked tirelessly as an advocate to at-risk youth. From after-school programs for elementary-aged children to gang mediation and conflict-resolution, he has been there. From providing gang education to schools, other non-profit agencies, law enforcement and civic groups, to providing victim and family support during tragic times, Reverend Kelly is there. In an average year, Reverend Kelly and his small staff provide approximately 38,000 units of service to 900 unduplicated youth. His personal experience, his unique rapport with youth from all walks of life and his unwavering faith have kept the Reverend committed to making a difference - one child at a time. Reverend Kelly, the Executive Director and Founder of Open Door Youth Gang Alternatives, has been recognized in Denver as a leader and innovator in developing intervention strategies with street gang members. Reverend Kelly and his program have been recognized by community leaders such as: former Governor Romer former Mayor Pena former District Attorney Norm Early former Mayor Webb Additionally, Reverend Kelly has received awards for his work with youth and known street gang members such as: "9 Who Cares" - KUSA 9 News "Commitment to Excellence" - Manual High School "Liberty Bell Award" - Denver Bar Association, and El Pomar Award of Excellence Achievements Founding member of the Metro Gang Coalition State of Colorado-Youth Offender System (YOS) 1996-1998 Coordinator of Gang Awareness and Management Program Provides after-school programs (Academic Enhancement and Bonding Program-AEB) at two Denver elementary schools, churches and other community agencies yearly. Orchestrated gang retreat that included members of five opposing gangs Facilitated production of four anti-gang videos. Highlights of Qualifications Elder and Assistant Pastor of Maranatha Church of God In Christ Strong practical and theoretical foundation in gang violence and prevention Excellent skills in mediation and conflict resolution Radio talk show host Professional Experience Executive Director - Open Door Youth Gang Alternatives 1987-present Board of Trustees - Denver Kiwanis Club Member - California Gang Investigations Association Family Resource Liaison Program Director - Salvation Army Red Shield Community Center 1985-1987 Education Doctorate of Divinity- Colorado Christian 1999 Doctor of Letters- Family Bible Institute, 1985 BS Biblical Studies- Family Bible Institute, 1985 Ambassador Bible College, Faith Bible College, 1979-80 BS Recreation- University of Colorado, Boulder 1976