ABOUT

OUR MISSION

ABOUT US

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"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.

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Image of Mark Talley with his late mother, Geraldine Talley

From our Founder, Mark Talley

Welcome to Agents for Advocacy. As the Founder and Executive Director of this non-profit organization, I stand before you with a heavy heart and an unwavering commitment to justice. The inception of this nonprofit was fueled by a personal tragedy that forever changed my life. On May 14, 2022, my beloved mother fell victim to an act of domestic terrorism at Tops Market. This senseless act, orchestrated by a white supremacist, claimed the lives of ten innocent people and left three others wounded. In the face of unimaginable grief, I found the strength to transform pain into purpose. Agents for Advocacy was born out of a deep desire to fight for social and economic justice, to challenge systems of oppression, and to ensure that no one else endures the pain my family and countless others have experienced.
Our mission is clear: to create a world where every individual, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or background, can live free from fear and inequality. We strive to dismantle the deep-rooted structures that perpetuate injustice and work tirelessly to empower marginalized communities. Through advocacy, education, charity, and community engagement, we aim to effect lasting change, one step at a time. Together, we can challenge hatred, eradicate bigotry, and build a future where every person's worth is recognized and celebrated. I invite you to explore our initiatives, join our cause, and contribute to the collective effort of creating a world that embraces diversity, equality, and justice. Let us stand united, unwavering in our pursuit of a better tomorrow.

A SPECIAL MESSAGE

Image of children raising hands in a classroom

Shaping the Future - Buffalo and Beyond

FROM TRAGEDY TO ADVOCACY

Your generous donations directly support our initiatives, including:

Community Outreach: Our non-profit engages with local communities, organizing workshops and events that promote awareness, dialogue, and action against systemic racism and socioeconomic inequality.

Resource Allocation: Your contribution helps us provide essential resources such as food, housing assistance, and healthcare access to those in need, bridging the gap between privilege and disadvantage.


Community Events: We organize engaging and inclusive events in the community that foster a sense of unity, celebrate diversity, and provide opportunities for individuals from different socioeconomic backgrounds to connect, learn, and support one another.

Your support matters. Together, we can break down barriers, transform lives, and create a fairer society for all.

Meet our Board of Directors

Image of Mark Talley Founder and CEO

MARK TALLEY

Kara oliver-pÉrez

Image of Kara Oliver-Pérez, DEI and Racial Equity Consultant

KIMBERLY JOHNSON

Image of Kimberly Johnson
Image of Board Member Paul Perez

PAUL PEREZ

Image of Board Member Terrell Rodgers

TERRELL RODGERS

Image of Mark Talley planting a commemorative tree

FAQ'S

  • Do you accept grants?

    We do! Our hard work in Buffalo and Western New York is only possible through donations and grants. We love partnering with local businesses to fund food drives, educational events, and other community-supporting endeavors to support Buffalo in the ways its people need it the most. Please contact us to learn more about our organization and ways you can help.

  • Do you offer professional public speaking services?

    We do! One of the main ways we engage our community is by offering our knowledge and experience in a public speaking setting. We work with schools, libraries, businesses and other institutions looking to schedule an event. For more details on our pricing and topic offerings please contact us HERE.

  • What can I do to help?

    Knowing that there is work to be done IS the first step! The next step is to consider becoming a volunteer or making a donation. Make sure to follow us on social media to learn more about the current work we are doing and ways you can get involved in our community projects.

  • Is my donation tax deductible?

    Yes! Agents for Advocacy is a registered 501(c)3 organization. Not only is your donation tax deductible, but 100% of the proceeds will go directly towards helping the most vulnerable members of our community.

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