Riley works to expand quality of life for in-need residents

MADISON – Alex Riley founded MadisonUp “to find ways to help improve the quality of life for the underprivileged.”

“Coming from humble beginnings (in New Orleans), I’ve never forgot where I come from — growing up in a single-parent home with seven siblings. Being raised in the midst of constant murders and violence, you become numb,” he said.

“But imagine local outlets of expression like after-school programs focused on skill building, homework and fun,” Riley said. “It would minimize the sense of being disadvantaged because we’re a part of something that welcomed us with open arms. This is a nod to the park playground and enrichment center’s for MadisonUp.

“I’m not a fan of speaking politically correct to appease certain groups or the masses. Madison is a good city and a city of privilege, but Madison has areas where 25 percent of students live in poverty and yearn for basic needs,” he said.

“Madison is praised as one of the state’s and country’s best cities, but I encourage Madison leadership and city planners to highlight more of its diversity and find the budget to hire someone specifically as a multicultural affairs officer,” Riley said. “African Americans have been in the community since the 1800s, but little history has been shared in any books.”

Hispanics, Indians, Asians … but no multicultural office to highlight such cultures. “That’s what makes a good city great. New Orleans’s eclectic sense of acceptance taught me that,” he said.

The West Madison area is “of value because it’s heavily policed but not enough proactive planning for youth and parents.” He envisions a future for these residents as bright as his.

“I hope this article opens up the right dialogue and sheds light to influence our leaders and citizens, even with state and national accolades, we still have work to do,” Riley said.

In music, his favorite artist was Tupac Shakur. “He was an inspiration, stood up for what he believed and spoke through his God-given gift of poetry,” Riley said. Tupac’s philosophy for a better community mirrors Riley’s dream.

Riley evacuated from Hurricane Katrina to live in Huntsville. He attended Columbia, graduated from Bob Jones High School and attended Calhoun Community College. “This generation’s innovation and imagination can lead wherever you want to go,” Riley said.

Back in New Orleans, Alex’s 10-year-old son lives with his mother. A sixth-grader, his son is adept at sports like his dad, mature for his age and wants to be a scientist so he can change the world. “I support that 100 percent,” Riley said.

Email madisonup11@gmail.com or visit madisonup1.com.