It’s all about community healing.
Our Team
Ivan Nelson BS, LADC, CPP
Ivan has worked in the non-profit sector for many years providing counseling and intensive case management services for single adults and families impacted by chronic homelessness, mental illness, and substance use disorders. He is a proponent of Seeking Safety, an evidence-based, present-focused counseling model to help people attain safety from trauma, PTSD, and Substance Use Disorders. He feels a deep appreciation for every opportunity to engage the clients he serves with dignity and respect, believing - that perhaps the only gratification that can come from suffering is to learn from it and try to transform it into something that can help others.
Thadious Walker, AS, ADC-T
Thadious has worked in the direct services community for the past 5 years in many different roles. He is currently a lead counselor in a High-Intensity Outpatient with lodging program. Thad has a passion for working with individuals who deal with substance abuse disorders and criminal justice system adherence struggles. He believes in a client-centered and holistic approach, understanding the many different barriers one may face in their recovery efforts.
Maurice
Kenneth B. Jackson
Kenneth B. Jackson aka Bruce is the Treasurer for African American Survivor Services. He is responsible for the organization’s administrative, organizing, and scheduling assignments. His duties include the payment of vendors, volunteers, and our members for their work as presenters to groups at various facilities.
He has a Bachelor’s Degree from Robert Morris College and a Master’s Degree in Business with a concentration in accounting from Keller Graduate School of Management. He has been working in the accounting field since 1983 when he first received a 10-Month certificate in accounting from Robert Morris College. He currently works for the State of Minnesota as a Finance Specialist.
He has also been the Treasurer for multiple years with his union and for a recovery convention committee. He enjoys organizing events and keeping the records and books in order.
Our Story
African American Survivors Services is an established 501 (c) 3 organization. We understand that a communal approach is warranted as we connect with people using strategies that offer professional and peer support. Our services are all-inclusive to anyone seeking resources and referrals to offset the impacts of mental illness, addiction, incarceration.
We assess, empower, advocate and mobilize individuals, families, and communities. Our work is face to face, shoulder to shoulder. AASS provides a cache of trauma-informed services, community recovery events that foster unity and peace-driven solutions. We work separately and together with community partners to promote healthier living.
We meet the individual exactly where they are at in their individual process. Our work is person-centered. We promote recovery from addiction, mental illness, and violence. We are located in the Twin Cities of Minnesota. Our service extends to Hennepin, Ramsey, Dakota, and Washington Counties.