Thell Robinson III is the founder and CEO of Halt Violence, and no stranger to the violence in urban America. As a teenager, Thell became a drug dealer in Washington DC. He saw firsthand how violence and death can rip families and communities apart. In search of change, Thell relocated to Columbus, Ohio only to find a challenge.

Shortly after moving to Columbus, Thell began to purchase and distribute cocaine. As a drug dealer, Thell participated in a lifestyle ruled by violence and fear. Eventually Thell’s illegal activities caught up with him; he was arrested and incarcerated.

Since his incarceration, Thell has completely transformed his life in many ways. While he knows he can’t erase the past, he has dedicated his life to helping at-risk teens and young adults to avoid the violent lifestyle he once knew. As a result of his own transformation, Thell continues to make an impact on the streets of Columbus, by training the next generation of street mentors at Halt Violence, expanding relationships in the community, and sharing his story through his books and public speaking.