The Weekly Chat is an engaging podcast created with the community in mind. Moderated by Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, each episode features an informative conversation on issues relevant to DeKalb. Podcast listeners explore local, national, and global issues through the lens of content experts, community leaders, citizens, and individuals on the front line. https://theweeklychat.com
The Non-Violence Initiative aims to decrease incidents of violence and increase student retention rates through violence prevention and mental health-based education. The initiative utilizes a conglomerate approach that enlists diverse professionals, community partners, parents, educators, service providers, and trained professionals to assist in implementing positive change. https://lcochra8.wixsite.com/creating-safe-school
Founded in 2020, the DeKalb County Small Business Summit is designed to support small business development, while providing ongoing business education and resources to ensure the success of local small businesses. This annual event features business experts in a variety of areas including funding, marketing, digital technology, franchising, and incentives. How to get start a
In 2019 to increase financial literacy and home ownership, I entered a partnership with Operation Hope and RBC Bank to open Operation HOPE DeKalb. To date, the partnership has created 89 new homeowners and issued more than $22 million in home loan funding and down-payment assistance to first-time home buyers. Financial dignity training, small business
In 2019 I provided the funding necessary to revive the DeKalb Regional Land Bank Authority. The Land Bank is a valuable tool to fight blight and get abandoned properties revitalized and into productive use. The Land Bank became functional in 2022 after a board was appointed and an administrator was chosen to oversee the daily