VicHuggyAM Community Spotlight: Rasheeda Jamison-Harriott
Rasheeda Jamison-Harriott is the powerhouse CEO of United Communities Against Poverty (UCAP), an organization proudly serving Prince George’s County for an incredible 60 years. Under Rasheeda’s passionate leadership, UCAP continues its vital mission of combating poverty and creating opportunities for economic empowerment and stability within the community.
Founded as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty in 1964, UCAP stands as a beacon of hope, helping residents in crisis and working tirelessly to uplift families. At the heart of its work are impactful programs that address immediate needs while fostering long-term success.
UCAP offers a wide range of essential services, including managing Prince George’s County’s family shelter, Shepherd’s Cove, which provides refuge for those experiencing homelessness. The organization also serves the community through bilingual housing counseling, mortgage modification assistance, and eviction prevention. To further address housing challenges, UCAP rehabilitates neglected homes and makes them available to low- and moderate-income families—a critical step in building community stability.
One of UCAP’s standout initiatives this summer is the Level Up Entrepreneur and Leadership Bootcamp, an immersive program designed to inspire and equip the next generation of leaders. Teen participants learn business skills, develop entrepreneurial mindsets, and pitch ideas in a dynamic Shark Tank-style competition. They receive stipends for their efforts and connect with local entrepreneurs and business mentors, building networks that will support them for years to come.
Rasheeda’s innovative vision reflects a deep commitment to developing not just economic opportunities but also community leaders. She believes in building safety nets and lasting relationships that fortify the county’s foundation. “For a strong community to thrive, we must invest in our youth and each other,” she says.
The success of programs like Level Up relies on community involvement. Explore how you can support UCAP and its incredible initiatives by visiting www.ucappgc.org/meet-our-ceo. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of families and ensure a brighter future for everyone.
Join UCAP in transforming lives—because where there is poverty, there’s hope to build something greater.
