Project NAS (Not a Statistic — A Future Reimagined
Empowering lives. Restoring dignity. Building stronger communities.
803-740-0811 - Outreach and Life Skills
Welcome To Project NAS (Not A Statistic)
Delores Shabazz — Transforming Lives, Building Futures.
From the Desk of Delores Shabazz, Executive Director
At Project NAS (Not A Statistic), we believe no one should be defined solely by their past. Our work is about unlocking potential, restoring dignity, and building strong, connected communities.
With over 15 years in community development and social justice advocacy—and the lived experience that fuels my passion—I have dedicated my career to dismantling barriers and creating opportunities for justice-impacted individuals and underserved families.
Through education, advocacy, and holistic support, we provide the tools people need to rebuild their lives and achieve lasting change. Together, we can turn challenges into stepping stones and statistics into success stories.
Let’s build a future where everyone has the chance to thrive.
— Delores Shabazz Executive Director, Project NAS
Sharing over 15+ Years in Community Development & Social Justice Advocacy
Meet the Founder of Project NAS (Not A Statistic)
Hameen Shabazz,MS, OML, GCDF
Mr. Hameen Shabazz is a native of Columbia, South Carolina, who faced numerous challenges and traumatic events throughout his life. These experiences led him down a difficult path marked by drugs, violence, and ultimately incarceration. Convicted on several charges, including trafficking crack cocaine, he was sentenced to 20 years in prison.
However, it was during his time in prison that Hameen began a profound transformation. He taught himself to read and discovered the power of education. His newfound passion for learning introduced him to topics such as Black history, psychology, sociology, and self-help. Driven by his desire for change, he devoured every piece of literature he could find. As he gained knowledge, he also prepared himself for a world outside prison walls, a world where he had no support waiting for him.
Upon his release, Hameen found himself homeless and uncertain about his future. Despite these obstacles, he made a firm commitment to never return to prison. Through hard work, determination, and perseverance, he found stable employment, secured housing, and pursued a college education. He also recognized his responsibility to help others overcome their own challenges.
On June 9th, 2011, Mr. Shabazz, alongside other dedicated individuals, founded Project NAS. Today, Hameen is a Human Services practitioner with multiple degrees in the Social Services field. He is a certified Global and Career Development Facilitator, has completed doctoral coursework, and is a respected author, motivational speaker, life coach, image consultant, community advocate, and professor. Known as the "People's Champion," he is dedicated to empowering others to achieve their full potential.
Hameen's personal experiences, combined with his extensive knowledge of human development, led him to create the Whole Person Development blueprint, which is the foundation of Project NAS. This Life Skills Master Class teaches individuals how to develop and nurture every aspect of themselves. It focuses on critical thinking, overcoming barriers, maintaining healthy relationships, financial literacy, career development, and overall personal healing. Through The Power of I AM, participants are empowered to transform their lives and reach their full potential.
About PROJECT NAS (Not A Statistic)
Our Mission
The mission of Project NAS is to empower justice-impacted individuals, families affected by mass incarceration, and vulnerable communities by addressing their unique needs across all aspects of life. We provide holistic support that connects people to a trusted network of partners offering mental health services, job training, housing assistance, addiction recovery, and more. Our goal is to help individuals break through barriers, reach their full potential, and lead fulfilling lives by nurturing their minds, bodies, and spirits.
Our History
Project NAS was founded on June 9th, 2011, by Hameen Shabazz, a native of Columbia, South Carolina, whose life was shaped by hardship, incarceration, and personal transformation. After being convicted and sentenced to 20 years in prison, Hameen experienced a profound change during his time behind bars. He taught himself to read, discovered a passion for education, and immersed himself in subjects like Black history, psychology, and sociology. Upon his release, despite facing homelessness and uncertainty, Hameen committed to a better future, eventually securing employment, housing, and a college education.
Motivated by his journey and desire to help others overcome similar struggles, Hameen established Project NAS to offer holistic support to individuals seeking personal growth and transformation. Today, he is a Human Services practitioner, author, speaker, life coach, and advocate, known for creating the Whole Person Development blueprint. This life skills curriculum empowers individuals to cultivate critical thinking, financial literacy, career development, and healing, helping them reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.
Our Team
The Project NAS team is made up of passionate volunteers dedicated to helping individuals develop life skills that empower them to become productive and valuable members of society. We recognize that not all needs can be met in-house, so we've built a robust referral system to connect individuals with a trusted network of specialists and partners. Whether it's mental health services, addiction recovery, job training, housing support, financial counseling, or other resources, our goal is to ensure each person receives the comprehensive care and support they need to rebuild their lives and thrive. Contact us for more details!
SERVICES
At Project NAS, we are committed to empowering individuals and communities through a range of services designed to foster personal growth, skill development, and social change.
Our offerings include:
- Whole Person Development
A comprehensive approach to personal growth that nurtures every aspect of an individual—mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual. Our programs focus on building self-awareness, critical thinking, and resilience to overcome obstacles. - Life Skills
Practical training designed to equip individuals with essential skills for everyday life, including communication, financial literacy, job readiness, emotional intelligence, and healthy relationship building. - Consultation/Training/Workshops
Tailored consulting services, training programs, and workshops aimed at organizations, schools, and communities. We offer interactive sessions to help individuals and groups thrive in both personal and professional environments. - Legislative Advocacy
Working to influence public policy and promote positive change for underserved communities. We advocate for systemic reforms that address the root causes of social issues and provide equitable opportunities for all. - Community Outreach
Engaging with local communities to provide resources, support, and education. Our outreach efforts focus on building stronger, more resilient communities through direct services and partnerships.
At Project NAS, we are dedicated to helping individuals transform their lives and communities thrive. Reach out to learn more about our services and how we can help you or your organization achieve lasting change.
RESOURCES
Health & Recovery Support for Justice-Impacted Individuals
Health & Recovery Support for Justice-Impacted Individuals
At Project NAS, we recognize that access to quality health care is essential for successful reentry and long-term stability. Our Health & Recovery Support section connects justice-impacted individuals to compassionate, affordable, and trauma-informed care across South Carolina.
CAREER/PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Health & Recovery Support for Justice-Impacted Individuals
At Project NAS Community Development Corporation, we believe in second chances and the power of transformation. Our Career & Professional Development initiatives are designed to support justice-impacted individuals in South Carolina as they navigate pathways to employment, education, and personal growth.
Education Pathways for Justice-Impacted Individuals
We host a variety of events throughout the year, including fundraisers, community outreach events, and educational seminars. Check out our calendar to see what's coming up.
Housing Support for Unhoused, Veterans & Justice-Impacted Individuals
Housing Support for Unhoused, Veterans & Justice-Impacted Individuals
At Project NAS, we understand that safe and stable housing is essential for healing, recovery, and successful reentry. We connect individuals and families—especially those experiencing homelessness, justice involvement, or military service—to compassionate, accessible housing resources across South Carolina.
Financial Education & Empowerment for Justice-Impacted Individuals
Housing Support for Unhoused, Veterans & Justice-Impacted Individuals
Financial Education & Empowerment for Justice-Impacted Individuals
Project NAS is committed to helping justice-impacted individuals build financial stability and long-term economic independence. Through our Financial Flourish initiative and strategic partnerships, we provide access to financial literacy tools, coaching, and resources designed to meet people where they are.
Justice-Impacted Entrepreneur Resource Guide
Housing Support for Unhoused, Veterans & Justice-Impacted Individuals
Financial Education & Empowerment for Justice-Impacted Individuals
Project NAS is proud to present a comprehensive guide to entrepreneurship opportunities and support services for justice-impacted individuals in Columbia, South Carolina. This resource is designed to empower returning citizens with tools to build sustainable businesses, gain financial independence, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Childcare Assistance Resources for Justice-Impacted Families in South Carolina
Childcare Assistance Resources for Justice-Impacted Families in South Carolina
Childcare Assistance Resources for Justice-Impacted Families in South Carolina
Navigating reentry is challenging — especially for parents working to rebuild stable, nurturing environments for their children. Project NAS is committed to supporting justice-impacted families by connecting them to affordable, accessible childcare resources across South Carolina.
GET INVOLVED
Project NAS is fortunate to have the support of our wonderful community. You can do your part to help the community. Listed below are ways you can help. Whether volunteering, taking part in a fundraising event, or making a donation.
We greatly appreciate your support.
Project NAS Advisory Board
Fall Women’s Initiative Drive
This November, Project NAS is hosting our Fall Women’s Initiative Drive to support justice-impacted women as they transition back into society with dignity.
We are collecting socks, underwear, hygiene products, and period supplies — because every contribution helps restore confidence and meet essential needs.