Nicole Banks’ journey from a Marine to a community leader exemplifies the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many. Honored with the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award, her nonprofit, Starfish Assignment, has fostered connections between police officers and community members in crisis since its inception in 2018. It reflects a grassroots initiative that not only addresses immediate needs but also builds lasting relationships.
Starfish Assignment was born out of a poignant moment. Banks encountered a homeless Vietnam War veteran living in his car near her home. She said, “He broke my heart,” prompting her to mobilize friends and local support to provide immediate assistance. This encounter was more than just an act of kindness; it sparked what would become a significant community movement. Within days, the veteran secured housing and access to benefits—an example of how swift action can change lives.
Today, the organization collaborates closely with the Columbus Division of Police. Officers patrol neighborhoods and identify residents facing hardships, such as those without basic necessities. These officers relay the needs to Starfish Assignment, which effectively rallies contributions from the community to provide solutions, demonstrating the effectiveness of direct action.
In a clear mission statement, Banks articulated the organization’s approach: “We treat every request as an assignment.” This directness highlights the organization’s efficiency and commitment to meeting specific needs, from providing beds to securing shoes for children. The hands-on nature of Starfish Assignment emphasizes practical results over red tape.
Tim Becker, Gahanna Public Safety Director, praised Banks for her dedication, noting her commitment often overshadows personal time. “Few will understand that Nicole continues to use nearly all her vacation – as well as most of her nights and weekends – to continue the work of Starfish,” he wrote. Such personal sacrifice tells of her dedication to the cause.
The impact of the nonprofit became even more pronounced during the COVID pandemic. Embedded police officers continued to identify families lacking essential resources, and Banks quickly mobilized support to deliver groceries and other critical items. This adaptive approach not only met urgent needs but also strengthened the bond between law enforcement and the community they serve.
Starfish Assignment has implemented several noteworthy programs, including Books and Badges, which engages officers in classrooms to read to children. This initiative has fostered a positive relationship between youth and law enforcement, encouraging literacy while demystifying police presence for young students. Additionally, the Cops & Barbers program provides free haircuts and school supplies to children, reinforcing a community-centered ethos.
Despite skepticism about the ability to effect change in the face of overwhelming problems—often referenced through the metaphor of saving starfish—Banks remains undeterred. She quotes a child from the famous parable when faced with doubt: “I can make a difference to this one.” It’s a powerful reminder of how individual actions can spark broader change, a sentiment that guides her work.
The FBI’s recognition further validates the importance of Banks’ efforts. Director Christopher Wray highlighted the organization’s unique role in fostering connections between law enforcement and the community. This endorsement serves not only as recognition for Banks but also as a powerful affirmation of civic engagement that produces tangible results.
For police officers, partnerships with Starfish Assignment offer crucial resources. “Police are trained to enforce laws, but they also encounter people whose problems won’t be solved with a ticket or a warning,” noted Sgt. Steven Carr. The partnership empowers officers to take meaningful actions beyond traditional law enforcement, providing assistance where it matters most.
Measurable outcomes from the organization’s efforts reveal significant benefits. They have facilitated housing for homeless individuals, distributed furniture, and provided health support to families lacking coverage. Thanks to these initiatives, many who previously had negative feelings towards police are now expressing gratitude for the help they received from officers.
Nicole Banks is not just the face of this movement; she balances her role as a nonprofit leader with her career and parenting. Her son Rohan, who witnessed the beginnings of Starfish Assignment, serves as a constant reminder of the ripple effect of compassion. “He saw the difference we could make,” she reflected, reminding us of the generational impact of community service.
The all-volunteer nature of Starfish Assignment holds lessons in community collaboration. By sidestepping the traditional bureaucratic hurdles of many nonprofit organizations, Banks has created a model that proactively addresses community needs. This approach not only yields immediate results but also fosters a sense of ownership among community members.
Furthermore, the organization has shown progress in repairing community-police relations, evidenced by better school readiness, reduced stress for struggling families, and improved interactions with law enforcement. With a growing network of over 300 donors and contributors, Starfish Assignment illustrates the profound effects of citizen-led initiatives supported by civic institutions.
In conclusion, Nicole Banks’ story and the mission of Starfish Assignment showcase the potential for nonprofit organizations to create lasting change. By bridging gaps between law enforcement and public service, they exemplify how citizen efforts can address urgent needs effectively, counteracting systemic obstacles in traditional assistance programs. As Tim Becker aptly noted, “She is truly one in a million,” and her commitment to service embodies a model for others to emulate.
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