COLUMBIA, SC
803-740-0811 - Outreach and Life Skills
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.
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
