Occupation: Facilities and Logistics Manager
Birthplace:  Wilson, North Carolina

Deacon Elbert J. has been a resident of Washington DC since 1985. He has been a positive force in the community through this work as Operation Manager at Us Helping Us, People Into Living, Inc. His kind manner and compassionate spirit has earned him much deserved recognition both professional and socially. His list of professional achievements includes but is not limited to:

• Being selected to attend the African American HIV University sponsored by the African American AIDS Policy and Training Institute and AIDS Social Policy Archive at the University of Southern California.
  Instrumental in the formation of The Positive Image Performance Project Formerly known as Playback Theatre.
  Instrumental in organizing The African American HIV/AIDS Walk for Life from 1998 to 2002.
  Worked his way from volunteer Support Group Facilitator to become a leader in the HIV/AIDS community. He now holds the Title of Operations Manager of Us Helping Us’ new office on Georgia Ave, NW..

His life in DC has been replete with challenges and adversity including HIV infection and addiction. In answer to those challenges, Elbert chose to embrace Spirituality and focus on his inherent desire to help others. He used the challenges he faced to find a path to center himself in a personal relationship with God. That relationship has lead to his Deaconship at Unity Fellowship Church (formerly known as Inner Light Unity Fellowship Church). There under the leadership of Reverend Abena McCray, he plays an active role in helping to spiritually liberate and embrace members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered Community. He is also a Member At-Large on the Board of Trustees

His positive attitude is not lost in his approach to his own physical health. Through Us Helping Us he was introduced to a Holistic approach to healing. He received training in Holistic techniques and nutrition from Dr. Prem Deben. He continues to promote this Program and supply the necessary provisions to follow it.

His hobbies include: Biking, Performing Arts Theatre and Dance.