By Tammy Reese | Monday, December 22, 2025 | The Heart of the Community Raymond A. Parks From overcoming a challenging upbringing in Detroit to becoming a respected motivational speaker, coach, and community leader, Raymond A. Parks embodies resilience, integrity, and purpose. As President and Founder of The U.P.L.I.F.T. Program (Urban Peers Learning Integrity For Tomorrow), Raymond has dedicated his life to empowering youth in underserved communities through mentorship, hol