"Ensley Local Offers Innovative Solutions to Combat Birmingham's Crime Through 'Street Life' Program"

(By Alaina Bookman | abookman@al.com) AL.com’s "Beyond the Violence" initiative, in collaboration with The Birmingham Times, explores Birmingham's potential to transcend its crime issues, fostering a safer and healthier community. Jacobie Williams, 36, once ensnared by "street life," now collaborates with One Hood, a violence intervention organization aiming to halt cycles of violence in Birmingham. Through credible messengers—individuals impacted by justice—One Hood focuses on conflict resolution and trauma recovery. Williams, inspired by his own past, emphasizes community involvement for lasting change.