VOICE Community Activation at Raymond Bush Playground

By Pojanee Fleury
On August 9, 2025 the historic Raymond Bush Playground was filled with community members from near and far for the 3rd Annual VOICE Community Activation, a daylong event designed to support local families and celebrate neighborhood pride.

Led by organizer Jordan Pierre the activation blended sports, play, and resources to help students gear up for the new school year. The event aimed to strengthen neighborhood ties and create positive outlets for youth.

Jordan Pierre founded the VOICE Foundation three years ago, inspired by the momentum from a viral speech he gave at Syracuse University.

Encouraged by his barber to stay connected to his community and use the attention for something meaningful, Jordan set out to make a positive impact.

He launched the activation day alongside community members, including those who had moved away from the neighborhood. Jordan compared them to an alumni association, who would act as continuous supporters to help the community stay strong, no matter where they live.

Attendees enjoyed free food and snacks, while children had fun playing games and jumping on the bouncy castle. School supplies, including backpacks, notebooks, pens, and pencils, were distributed.

There was a youth basketball tournament with local players competing in spirited games that emphasized teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.

Neighbors connected across generations, meeting new families and reconnecting with old friends. The highlight of the day was the amazing performance by the Brooklyn United Arts Music and Arts Program’s marching band!

The band’s performance was truly breathtaking. The young, dynamic drummers and dancers were filled with electric energy, delivering tricks and musical feats with precision!

Jordan shared that the theme of this event was “We Are More Than What They Portray Us To Be.” With VOICE, he is changing the narrative and the image of those in his community.

He incorporated basketball, music and art into the event because he wanted to show the young people that they can build skills that can open doors, mentioning how several students of the Brooklyn United received music scholarships to play in bands at HBCUs.

“Most young people need a reference, to see something and say I can do that, knowing it’s possible to be successful because others in their own community can and have done it.”

By bringing together celebration with support, VOICE Community Activation showed how local leadership can foster pride, resilience, and empowerment. Events like this strengthen trust, create opportunities for youth, and keep vital resources within reach—helping the community head into the school year stronger and more united. All images/Pojanee Fleury