Today we’d like to introduce you to Robert Walsh.
Hi Robert, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I initially became a mentor for Big Brothers and Big Sisters in Baton Rouge, LA in 2002 while in college. At that time, I was in my 2nd year of college at Southern University A&M. After graduating and moving to Texas to become a police officer I knew there was a need and I enjoyed mentoring young men. I was always more interested in the older boys because they were typically the last ones to be matched with a mentor. After successfully mentoring 4 young men I created NEX Metropolitan which is a mentorship program that empowers young men between the ages of 16-21 years old. Our mission is to invest in the lives of young men as they make critical decisions and evolve into the NEX phase of their lives. We believe in a innovate approach to help them overcome obstacles as they transition from adolescent to young adulthood.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
We’ve had our share of obstacles, one of which is COVID-19. We were incorporated as a 501C-3 entity in February 2020 just before the pandemic began. We had to be creative in our approach as well as recruiting mentors and advertising our program. In addition to the pandemic, we are also a grassroots organization that faces the traditional obstacles that any business has during its inception. We have been fortunate to partner with some awesome organizations who believe in our purpose and mission.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a 14-year Veteran of a local municipal police department, and my current rank is Sergeant. I have an extensive background in police operations, criminal investigations, and youth and community service. I’m currently assigned to the Major Crime Division more specifically the Homicide Unit. I’m also a certified Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Instructor (TCLOE). I’m known as a servant leader who is transparent and develops innovative ways to build relationships with the community. In 2016 I created an initiative entitled the Bridge Kids Program. It helps kids at an elementary school get home safety as they cross over a pedestrian bridge. There were concerns from parents and neighbors regarding juvenile delinquent behavior and bullying near the bridge. I met with community members and school administration to develop a comprehensive plan to address the problem. I assigned officers to assist school staff with walking the kids home as they crossed over the bridge into the neighborhood. This provided officers an opportunity to engage the kids and talk about bullying and drugs. In addition, I created a summer tutoring program at surrounding apartment complexes to help the kids with STAAR testing. In 2018 the program received the Texas Municipal Lead Excellence Award in the Public Safety Category. I’m not sure if it sets me apart, but I lead with my heart and I treat others the way I would want to be treated.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My advice would be to become involved in your community, which provides an opportunity to network with a diverse group of people with a common interest. Being personable and showing people that you genuinely care. Also, being committed and not just involved.
Contact Info:
- Email: contact@thenexfoundation.org
- Website: www.nexmetropolitan.org
- Instagram: nexmetropolitan
- Facebook: nexmetropolitan
- Twitter: @nexmetropolitan
