Lexington Nonprofit Empowers Youth Through Life Lessons
Lexington, Ky. — Operation Making a Change (OMAC) is dedicated to teaching kids and young adults how to navigate the challenges of their environment and create positive change in their lives. The nonprofit organization focuses on underprivileged youth in the Lexington area, encouraging personal growth and the adoption of anti-violence principles.
Founded over a decade ago by Gerald Gibson, OMAC works in cooperation with Fayette County Public Schools and the Lexington detention center, offering both in-school and after-school programs. The organization aims to be a safety net for young people facing difficult circumstances, helping them make constructive decisions.
Dontaevius Bowie, a former participant who faced his first criminal case at the age of 17, emphasizes the importance of OMAC in his life. “I didn’t know how much it could impact my life,” he said, highlighting the lessons learned from both teaching and lived experiences. Bowie advocates for the mission of OMAC by engaging with current participants, striving to guide them away from his past mistakes.
Gibson’s journey inspired the founding of OMAC. “I really thought about my future and the people I was impacting in a negative way,” he explained. “OMAC was a thought sitting in a cell.” His experience serves as a testament to the transformative power of mentorship and guidance, which he now strives to offer the youth of Lexington.
OMAC operates out of the Charles Young Community Center, strategically positioned to serve Lexington’s east end. Gibson notes the diverse backgrounds of his team, which helps foster connections with various members of the community.
“Our kids are the future,” Gibson stated. He aims to show them that their current circumstances do not define who they are or what they can achieve. With supportive role models and resources from OMAC, Bowie is also taking steps to reshape his future. “When you got so far into this other mindset, it was very hard to find the right path,” he admitted. However, he remains committed to helping others find their way, stating, “I still want to at least find a way to help other people.”
Through programs like those offered by OMAC, Lexington’s youth are encouraged to overcome their challenges and become responsible contributors to their community.
