Meet The Team
Benny Ousley
Board President
Bennie Ousley is a highly respected individual who holds significant roles within Driven to Inspire, a non-profit organization dedicated to community upliftment.
As the Program Director and President of the Board, Bennie brings a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted passion for driving positive change.
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With a keen understanding of the power of community engagement, Bennie has made it his life's mission to create opportunities for growth, empowerment, and inspiration. His tireless dedication to serving others has earned him a reputation as a compassionate leader and a catalyst for transformation.
Bennie's journey as an advocate for community development began early in his life. Growing up in a diverse neighborhood, he witnessed firsthand the impact of systemic challenges on individuals and families.
Motivated by a desire to address these issues, Bennie pursued a career that would allow him to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around him.
Walter LeFlore
Vice President/
Executive Director
Walter Leflore is an accomplished individual who wears many hats in his role as the Executive Director of Driven to Inspire, a non-profit community group. With a deep passion for serving his community, Walter has dedicated his life to making a positive impact on the lives of others.
As a loving husband and devoted father, Walter understands the importance of creating a nurturing and supportive environment for families. He firmly believes that a strong community is built upon the foundation of strong families, and he strives to empower individuals and families to thrive.
Walter's journey as an advocate for his community began early in his life. Growing up in a close-knit neighborhood, he witnessed the challenges faced by his neighbors and friends. These experiences ignited a fire within him to bring about meaningful change and uplift those around him.
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Natalie Williams-McMahon, BA, MAT, EDD,
Board Member
Natalie W. McMahon, EDD is a Chicago Native raised in the Cabrini Green Housing Projects. Her educational and social service career begin at Lincoln Park H.S, where she graduated in 1996. Dr. McMahon attended Columbia College Chicago, where she earned a both a BA in Liberal Arts (2001) and a Masters at Teaching (2007).
As an Illinois certified teacher, Dr. McMahon created and became president of The Can & Will Help Foundation in 2014; she wanted to give back to those is need educationally and charitably, which led her to earn a Doctorate Degree in Education and Leadership (University of Phoenix).
Ultimately, her goal is to lead by example and show inner city youth and adults that no matter where you come from, hard work and determination lead to leadership and success.
Rebecca Cook
Board Treasurer
Rebecca Cook is a passionate community activist dedicated to social justice and equality on Chicago's west side. She fights for the rights of marginalized individuals and has made a significant impact in her community.
Rebecca played a vital role in implementing the consent decree, a landmark agreement to reform the Chicago Police Department. Through tireless advocacy, she ensured community voices were heard and their concerns addressed, promoting police accountability and addressing systemic issues.
She is a strong advocate for the rights of formerly incarcerated individuals, working diligently to raise awareness and push for policies that support their successful reentry and rehabilitation. Her efforts have reshaped public perception and created opportunities for the formerly incarcerated to rebuild their lives.
As the treasurer for Driven to Inspire, a non-profit empowering underprivileged communities, Rebecca showcases her financial acumen, ensuring efficient utilization of funds for personal and professional development resources.
Rebecca actively engages with residents, collaborating with community leaders and organizations to find solutions to pressing issues. Through grassroots organizing, she unites diverse groups in advocating for change and empowering the community.
Rebecca Cook's unwavering determination and passion continue to inspire and empower her community. Her contributions to the consent decree, advocacy for the formerly incarcerated, and dedication as treasurer for Driven to Inspire highlight her commitment to social justice and creating an equitable society for all.
As the Program Director and President of the Board, Bennie brings a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted passion for driving positive change.
Harrietta Humphrey
Board Member
Harrietta Humphrey, a dedicated Board of Director, hails from the vibrant Garfield community on the west side of Chicago. With an impressive track record of over 50 years of service, she has made significant contributions to her community. Harrietta proudly serves as the President of her block club, demonstrating her leadership and commitment to fostering unity and progress.
In her spiritual journey, Harrietta has been an active member of the esteemed Great White Stone Church, located in the Lawndale area at 3819 W. Ogden. As an elder within the church, she brings wisdom, guidance, and support to her fellow congregants. Her devout faith and involvement in religious activities have been instrumental in enriching the lives of those around her.
Beyond her community and religious involvement, Harrietta cherishes her roles as a mother and grandmother. She embraces the joys and responsibilities that come with nurturing and guiding the younger generations. Her love for her family extends beyond blood ties, as she wholeheartedly considers her community as an extended family, fostering a sense of belonging and unity.
Harrietta Humphrey's remarkable dedication to community service, her active role as the President of her block club, her spiritual leadership within the Great White Stone Church, and her cherished roles as a mother, grandmother, and elder, all contribute to her profound impact on the west side of Chicago. Her tireless efforts embody the spirit of compassion, resilience, and empowerment, making her an invaluable asset to both her community and Driven To Inspire.