Calvin Williams

Calvin has dedicated his life to understanding human behaviour and the relationships that shape our choices and life outcomes. Entering the child welfare system in Michigan at the age of five, he experienced firsthand the gaps and harms within social service systems. At 18, Calvin committed an offense that resulted in a life without parole sentence, and by 22, he was incarcerated within the Michigan Department of Corrections. While incarcerated, Calvin recognized the parallels between prison life and the group and foster homes in which he was raised. By his sixth year, he made a commitment to interrupt the cycle that funnels so many system involved youth into incarceration.

Calvin’s personal transformation began through faith-based study and an exploration of the human condition, which fostered his natural leadership and passion for mentorship. With the support of his foster parents, Calvin pursued post-secondary education through Louisiana State University, Adams State University, University of Michigan–Dearborn, and Grand Valley State University. He is also a certified mediator through Chance for Life and a trained facilitator.

Calvin is an ordained minister, observation aide, gang and gun violence prevention trainer, and facilitator of programs focused on critical thinking, effective communication, mediation, boundaries, civic engagement, and youth mentorship. He has served as Vice President of NLA Chapter 1013 and facilitates initiatives such as Power of the Grind. Calvin’s ability to connect authentically allows him to support others with honesty, empathy, and accountability creating spaces rooted in healing, trust, and collective growth.