For the last twenty years, Reverend James Patterson has led the Partnership of African American Churches (PAAC) as its Founder and President/CEO. PAAC is a 501c3 collaborative, nonprofit, faith-based community development corporation, based in Charleston, WV. While the organization serves all communities, it intentionally targets African American communities throughout West Virginia. Through his work with PAAC, Reverend Patterson focuses his attention on improving individual and community well-being by empowering individuals and congregational communities to achieve positive policy change. In addition to his experience as a nonprofit leader and community change agent, Reverend Patterson has been a pastor for more than 32 years. He received his MA in Sociology from Marshall University and his BA in Sociology from WV Institute of Technology. He also holds a Master’s of Arts degree in Applied Community Change and Conservation. Reverend Patterson is an ordained Elder of the Church of Nazarene. He serves as a director on multiple community-based boards, including Habitat for Humanity, WV Center on Budget and Policy, and the American Heart Association. He is the founder of the Saving our Children Program.