Meet the Champions Behind the Champions
Our dedicated team of professionals, volunteers, and community leaders work together to empower youth through comprehensive development programs that build character, skills, and futures.
Meet Our Team
Our dedicated leadership team brings together expertise from athletics, education, finance, healthcare, and community development to create comprehensive youth programs that transform lives.
Vincent Thomas-Harper
Vincent Thomas-Harper is a retired professional basketball player who competed overseas before transitioning into youth development and education. He currently serves as an Intervention Specialist and Restorative Practices & Climate and Culture Coordinator at West 40 Regional Safe School Program. In addition to his work in education, Vincent is the founder of Vince Thomas Basketball Training, a basketball skill development program dedicated to mentoring and empowering youth both on and off the court.
- Founder of Vince Thomas Basketball Training
- Intervention Specialist at West 40 Regional Safe School Program
- Restorative Practices & Climate and Culture Coordinator
Eric Sexton
Eric Sexton is a music executive with a consulting company that specializes in artist development, producer management, promotion and track placements on major projects for R&B, Gospel, Neo Soul, Jazz, Hip Hop, and Pop. Dominion Music Group is a Chicago based music consultant company that consults a broad array of both local and national artist.
- Founder of Dominion Music Group
- Artist Development Specialist
- Music Industry Professional with National Reach
Stanley Melton
Stanley Melton is a seasoned professional in the logistics industry, bringing over 20 years of experience in retail management and corporate training. From 2006 to 2010, he co-founded a boys' youth basketball program focused on character development, respect, discipline, and hard work. In 2013, Stan served as a youth basketball coach with the Lisle Park District. Since 2022, he has been an active volunteer with D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students), a program that encourages fathers to be present in schools by supporting teachers and engaging with students in classrooms and hallways. Stan is passionate about youth development and community involvement, using his leadership to make a positive impact both inside and outside the school environment.
- 20+ Years in Retail Management & Corporate Training
- Co-founder of Boys' Youth Basketball Program (2006-2010)
- Youth Basketball Coach - Lisle Park District (2013)
- Active D.O.G.S. Volunteer (2022-Present)
Dr. Ahmed Montasser Abdalbaqi
Dr. Ahmed Montasser Abdalbaqi holds a doctorate in Business Administration with a focus on Strategic Leadership and Innovation from Concordia University Chicago, along with an MBA and a pharmacy and biotechnology degree. His global experience spans crisis management, leadership, business development, and education, with work in organizations like Concordia, Eli Lilly, and AIESEC. He has traveled extensively, gaining leadership skills across countries like Germany, India, France, and the USA, and has received multiple awards for his leadership. As the founder and CEO of American Training Academy LLC, he uses his expertise to empower others through workshops and media appearances. Dr. Ahmed is driven by a passion to help people unlock their potential and live meaningful lives.
- Founder & CEO of American Training Academy LLC
- Global Leadership Experience (Germany, India, France, USA)
- Crisis Management & Business Development Expert
- Award-Winning Leadership Professional
- Workshop Facilitator & Media Speaker
Dionne Archie Thomas-Harper
Dionne Archie Thomas-Harper is a seasoned Senior Human Resources Executive with over 20 years of experience in the corporate sector. Outside the boardroom, she is deeply committed to community impact - mentoring high school students, supporting youth-centered nonprofit initiatives, and staying engaged in causes that uplift the next generation. A passionate advocate for young people, Dionne also enjoys cheering from the sidelines at as many basketball games as possible.
- 20+ Years Corporate HR Experience
- High School Student Mentor
- Youth-Centered Nonprofit Supporter
- Community Impact Advocate
Wiley H. Samuels
Affectionately known as Deacon Wiley, he leads a long-standing youth outreach program through his fellowship church called Friday Night Place, which has been serving young people in the Oak Park community since 1998. A retired businessman, Wiley now dedicates his time to working closely with parents, providing spiritual guidance and pastoral counseling. His compassionate focus is on addressing housing insecurity among youth, and he considers it an honor to walk alongside them in their journey, offering a listening ear and unwavering support through their trauma and challenges.
- Leader of Friday Night Place Youth Outreach (1998-Present)
- Spiritual Guidance & Pastoral Counseling
- Housing Insecurity Advocacy for Youth
- Community Support & Trauma Recovery Specialist
Heart of Our Community
Over 50 dedicated volunteers have contributed their time, skills, and passion to support our youth programs across multiple areas of expertise.
Coaching & Athletics
Assistant coaches, referee volunteers, and sports equipment managers
Life Skills Mentoring
Career mentors, financial literacy instructors, and life coaches
Event Support
Event coordinators, registration helpers, and community outreach
Administrative
Data entry, communications, and office support volunteers
Volunteer Spotlight
This space is reserved for highlighting our amazing volunteers. Check back soon to meet the incredible people who make our programs possible!
Be Part of the Change
Whether you want to volunteer or partner with our organization, there are many ways to contribute to our mission of empowering youth.
Volunteer with Us
Join our team of dedicated volunteers and make a direct impact on young lives
Apply to VolunteerPartner with Us
Collaborate with U BELONG through corporate partnerships and sponsorships
Learn About PartnershipsQuestions About Joining Our Team?
Our team is here to help you find the perfect way to get involved with U BELONG. Reach out to discuss opportunities, ask questions, or learn more about our mission.