ZARIO
The Activist
President and Founder, ZaRio, a native of Atlanta, brings over 20 years of proven experience in making a real difference in Atlanta's most at-risk communities.
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ZaRio has led initiatives including:
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1000 Men March: A demonstration of Love by going into different communities with 1000 men to urge for peace, stopping the violence and to provide other resources and alternatives. It was also a mobilization effort uniting men across communities to march in solidarity against violence.
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National Day of Nonviolence: Coordinated silent marches across 22 cities, taking a stand against violence in some of the nation's most crime-ridden neighborhoods.
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Woman Up^: An initiative dedicated to the advancement, respect, protection, and elevation of ALL women, with a specific focus on women of color. This initiative uplifts and empowers women to be agents of change within their communities.
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360 We God: Manhood and Womanhood Training Program: A transformative program designed to develop strong character, leadership, and self-awareness in young men and women. Through mentorship, skill-building, and community engagement, this initiative addresses the root causes of violence while fostering personal and collective growth. This initiative also provides job opportunities, including positions within ZaRio’s security company, giving participants tangible ways to break cycles of violence and poverty.
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Stop Sex Trafficking ATL: A focused campaign addressing the critical issue of sex trafficking in Atlanta. This initiative works to educate communities, rescue victims, and provide survivors with resources, counseling, and opportunities to rebuild their lives.
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Community Programs in Bowen Homes: Youth training and development programs in one of Atlanta's most impacted areas.
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School-Based Programs: Mentorship and training programs in Fulton County, Clayton County and Atlanta Public Schools, including Douglass High, Washington High, Banneker High, and Forest Park Middle school.
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Community Empowerment in "The Bluff" (English Ave): Manhood training programs that reduced crime and violence by providing alternate opportunities and job placements.
​ZaRio's work has earned two proclamations from the City of Atlanta, signed by the city council, recognizing his commitment to community empowerment and violence reduction.
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Our partnerships extend beyond the listed organizations and include collaborations with the Mayor's office, NAACP, SCLC, United Way, numerous churches, mosques, community groups, county officials, civic, political, and grassroots organizations across Atlanta, all of whom stand ready to support this initiative.