Local man works toward big dream

Celebrities back center aimed at bringing community together

The Post and Courier

Sunday, March 30, 2008

Have a B.A.S.H.

For more information about Bailey's B.A.S.H. (Belief with Action Serves Humanity), visit www.baileysbash.org. Or call Kim Tumey at 214-783-9453.

Local community activist Joseph Bailey envisions building a new center for the tri-county area that he hopes will help counter disparities seen statewide in education, unemployment, crime and health.

Bailey set out seven years ago to make his dream a reality. Now he has help from celebrities who have pledged their support for his cause, called Bailey's B.A.S.H. (Belief with Action Serves Humanity.)

On Saturday, three entertainers — Actress Vivica A. Fox; artist, poet and TV personality Amanda Diva; and actor Omar Benson Miller — announced at a press conference the details of the inaugural Bailey's B.A.S.H. National Humanitarian Awards, which will be held July 5 at the North Charleston Coliseum.

Organizers hope the awards will help shine a light on the problems Lowcountry communities face.

The celebrities also attended the inaugural Black Tie Fundraiser Banquet Saturday night to raise money for Bailey's planned community Hope Center in Charleston.

Bailey, of West Ashley, said one of the main objectives for the community center would be to bridge gaps between the community, kids, parents and school system.

The center carries a $31 million price tag. It will be in either West Ashley or North Charleston; will offer continuing education classes, and business and career advancement opportunities; and will feature a convention center, gym, pool, theater and more.

"It would be loaded with so many different resources, trying to give kids alternatives to crimes and different things for the community," Bailey said.

Fox said young people especially need positive outlets where they can be reassured that they don't have to "resort to gang violence and teen pregnancy and other things that are plaguing the community."

Diva echoed Fox's comments. "We are here to bring that Hope Center to life," she said. "It's a great cause and a great chance for everybody in Charleston to come to together, and not only have a good time, but also make a good future for some children."

Reach <strong>Tenisha Waldo</strong> at <a href="mailto:twaldo@postandcourier.com">twaldo@postandcourier.com</a> or 937-5744.