Kareem Ervin

Kareem Ervin has deep roots in the Bay Area. A San Francisco native and graduate of George Washington High School, Kareem has spent decades giving back to the communities that shaped him. He holds a B.A. in English from the University of Memphis and has focused his career on youth workforce development, mentoring, and community healing.

Kareem began his journey in violence prevention in 1998 with Alive & Free (Omega Boys Club), where he was mentored by co-founder Jack Jacqua. From college breaks spent volunteering at San Francisco Juvenile Hall to speaking engagements at San Quentin and Vacaville prisons, Kareem has consistently shown up for young people impacted by violence and incarceration. He also spent seven years as a co-host on 106.1 KMEL’s Street Soldiers radio show, amplifying voices and stories from the community alongside Alive & Free founder Dr. Joseph Marshall, Jr.

His commitment has earned him recognition at every level from the United Way of the Bay Area Board of Directors and a commendation from Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi to praise from local judges and community leaders. In 2023, he received the Oakland Police Activities League’s Community Service recognition for his unwavering dedication.

Kareem currently serves a four-year term with the Alameda County Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention Commission and is a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. His work continues to be guided by a deep belief in redemption, opportunity, and the power of community.