Life & Work with Skipp Townsend of Los Angeles, CA

Today we’d like to introduce you to Skipp Townsend.

Skipp, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I grew up during a time when I struggled with my identity. I didn’t want to be Black—I wanted to be Asian, inspired by Bruce Lee and his mastery of martial arts. I dreamed of being a fighter, a karate expert. But growing up in Los Angeles, going downtown to watch movies often meant running into the Crips, who would take your money and cause problems. That experience built a strong resentment in me toward the Crips. My grandmother lived in Inglewood, and over time, cultural influences began to shift—I was drawn to the images of Super Fly, wanted a perm, a Cadillac—I wanted to embrace being Black. But the Crips were still a presence there, too. By the age of 13, I had no desire to be a gang member; I just didn’t want to be a victim. So, by default, I decided to fight back.

From 1977 through 2009, I experienced recurring incarceration. After my release in 2005, I connected with Bo Taylor and became involved with Unity One and the American program. Bo was a powerful influence—I admired the impact he made, but I also observed the gaps in his approach. With his blessing, and under the guidance of incredible mentors like James Ingram and Harry Belafonte, I founded 2nd Call to address the areas I believed needed more attention. Their teachings, combined with my lived experience and street relationships, gave me the foundation to build something greater.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
One of the biggest obstacles I face in helping people is that many want the outcome without committing to the process. I could have supported more individuals if there were a stronger willingness to engage in growth and development—not just requests for immediate assistance like money or a job. Too often, it’s “just give me the job,” without an interest in learning how to succeed in it. True transformation requires patience, effort, and a willingness to invest in the journey.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m Skipp Townsend, CEO of 2nd Call, a nonprofit committed to violence prevention and supporting individuals returning from incarceration. I work directly in communities to de-escalate conflicts, reduce retaliation, and provide trauma-informed life skills to those impacted by violence. My mission is to create healing and safety by bridging gaps between survivors, systems, and under-served communities.

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The main lesson I’ve learned is that being an enabler can unintentionally hold people back. I realized that, at times, I became too emotionally invested in trying to control the outcome, rather than focusing on guiding others through the process. In doing so, I may have limited their growth by stepping in too much instead of allowing them to struggle, learn, and take ownership of their own journey.

Pricing:

• Join our $25 per month sustaining donors in supporting 2nd Call! With $25 a month we will be able to provide 5 participants with life skills classes, job readiness training/ supplies and supportive services.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.2ndcall.org/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/2ndcall_southla/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/2ndcall/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3U39TwShttw&t=38s
• Other: [email protected]