Leadership

  • Derrick Whiting- Founder & Executive Director

    Derrick Whiting, Baltimore native, is a dedicated community servant and advocate. Having attained a Bachelor of Arts in Human Services Administration from the University of Baltimore, he is currently pursuing a Master's in Social Work at the University of Maryland Baltimore. Derrick's public service journey began with eight years in the U.S. Army, shaping his values of discipline and commitment. Since his discharge , he has contributed over a decade to various roles within the public sector, addressing issues from homelessness to community improvement. Derrick actively engages in initiatives, focusing on public safety, veterans' affairs, LGBTQ outreach, and programs for returning citizens. As a returning citizen himself, he serves as the Executive Director of The Flowers Whiting Initiative, aiding others in their social reintegration journey. Derrick's commitment extends to roles such as the Vera institute of Justice’s Reshaping Prosecution Initiatives.

  • Darius Beckford- Chief Operating Officer

    Darius Beckford is a public safety and community engagement leader dedicated to reentry support, crime prevention, and restorative justice. As Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Flowers Whiting Initiative, he oversees program operations, partnership development, and strategic initiatives to reduce recidivism, foster economic empowerment, and promote restorative justice. Darius holds a Master of Science in Communication Management from Towson University and is an alumnus of the University of Baltimore. He is also a proud graduate of Baltimore City College. Committed to equity and second chances, he drives impactful policy and community-based initiatives.

  • Sierra Walker - Chief Operating Officer

    Sierra Walker serves as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the Flowers Whiting Initiative, where she oversees financial planning, budgeting, and compliance to support the organization’s mission to empower returning citizens and strengthen communities in Baltimore.

    She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Multidisciplinary Studies from Bennett College, graduating Summa Cum Laude, and is currently pursuing an Executive Master of Business Administration in Global Procurement and Acquisitions at Virginia Union University. Sierra is also a proud graduate of Baltimore City College.

Meet the Board

  • Derrick Whiting

  • Yvonne Harper

  • Larry Simmons

  • Mellanie Lee

  • Eean Logan

  • LaQuida Chancey

  • Randolph Wells III

  • Ashley Coston

  • Isaac Frumkin

  • Ebonne Davis

  • Erica Whiting