Urban Warrior

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Detroit is coming back. It was not an overnight success, but thanks to the efforts of people like John George, it's real. This story focuses on one man's personal crusade to protect his family and neighborhood. It became a larger mission, symbolic of an entire city, fighting to revitalize, rebuild and restore pride to Detroit. John George is a dreamer, a visionary and most importantly a man of action. A life long Detroit resident, John made a decision 27 years ago that shaped his future and changed his community. The young George family was living in Northwest Detroit when drug dealers moved into a vacant home down the block. One night a "party" got out of hand, and John was concerned for the safety of his wife and small children. His first thought of moving away was soon replaced with action. The next morning, John boarded-up the home. When the drug dealers returned, they drove away. In that moment, John George was set on his mission and has become the leader of his community. Today, volunteers come from throughout the nation and world to visit and help reclaim the community. White House Fellows, church groups and CEOs have joined the mission. In 2014, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan declared "War on Blight," and many expected John George to be named by the Mayor to lead that task. He was pushed aside. George and his organization were at a cross roads.