About our Founder

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 For more than three decades, Brian Saunders has been a tireless advocate, bridge-builder, and community leader in Crown Heights. His work is deeply rooted in the belief that unity, dialogue, and proactive engagement are the keys to building a safer and stronger neighborhood for all. 

 Thirty years after Crown Heights made international headlines during the race riots, Brian has dedicated himself to creating a different legacy—one built on bringing people together across racial, religious, and cultural divides. As President of the 77th Precinct Community Council, he regularly convenes Rabbis, Imams, Pastors, Priests, and civic leaders to engage in honest dialogue, exchange ideas, and foster understanding. These efforts have helped prevent tensions from escalating into conflict and created pathways toward harmony. 

Brian’s leadership extends well beyond dialogue. He has been instrumental in:

• Deed Theft Awareness: Brian’s commitment to protecting homeowners from deed theft is deeply personal—his own late mother was once a victim of this predatory practice when her home was wrongly seized under the city’s Third Party Transfer (TPT) program. Thanks to early intervention, her deed was restored, but the ordeal highlighted the devastating risks facing seniors and families of color in Crown Heights. Motivated by this experience, Brian has organized forums with elected officials, the NYS Attorney General, and representatives from City Hall to raise awareness and push for stronger protections against real estate fraud that threatens generational wealth.
   
• Anti-Violence Efforts: Responding immediately to victims and survivors of gun violence, ensuring they have access to resources, while mobilizing Peace Walks, Prayer Marches, and community support.
   
• Community Engagement: Championing National Night Out Against Crime and organizing initiatives like Senior Game Nights, Toys for Tots, and Thanksgiving Turkey Drives—events that build pride, trust, and joy within the community.

 Brian’s passion for service is generational. His family moved to Brooklyn in the 1960s, where his aunt became one of the first Black female pediatricians in the area and his mother a lifelong community activist. Growing up, Brian witnessed firsthand the power of grassroots organizing, and he has carried that legacy forward with pride. 

Brian’s impact is far-reaching:

• President, 77th Precinct Community Council
   
• Economic Development Chair, Community Board 8
   
• Member, Neighborhood Advisory Board 8
   
• Lifelong parishioner of St. Gregory’s Church
   
• Former restauranteur and owner of several beloved Brooklyn establishments, including The Tin Kettle
   

Through these roles, Brian works daily with local officials, the Mayor’s Office, and the Attorney General’s Office to address pressing issues and improve the quality of life in Crown Heights.

The 77th Precinct Community Council is immensely proud to celebrate Brian Saunders for his outstanding leadership and service.

• Modern Day Historians, AACEO
  Brian and Teri were honored by the African American Clergy & Elected Officials (AACEO) with the prestigious title of Modern Day Historians, recognizing their significant and enduring positive impact on the Crown Heights community. This acknowledgment speaks to decades of advocacy, bridge-building, and cultural leadership.
   
• Legacy of Leadership and Service
  As President of the 77th Precinct Community Council, Brian’s efforts to foster unity and trust between residents and law enforcement have reshaped community relations in Brooklyn. His leadership continues to inspire positive change, and this sentiment was reflected in a heartfelt tribute:
   “Honoring President Brian Saunders: A Legacy of Leadership and Service... His tireless efforts to bridge the gap between residents and law enforcement have inspired unity, trust, and positive change throughout Brooklyn.”
  
   
• National Night Out Against Crime
  On August 5, 2025, under Brian’s direction, Crown Heights hosted another successful National Night Out Against Crime at Brower Park, bringing together neighbors, local leaders, and law enforcement in a day-long celebration of community safety and connection. A special shout-out:
   “Thank you Mr. President Brian Saunders of the 77 Pct Community Council and others for putting together this amazing event year after year.”
  
   

While Brian has received many more awards, citations, and honors throughout his career, these highlights reflect just a small sample of the recognition he has earned for his unwavering service, leadership, and dedication to the Crown Heights community.

 What defines Brian most is his innate ability to bring people together. Whether across lines of race, class, religion, or culture, he is committed to ensuring that Crown Heights continues to grow as a place of peace, pride, and opportunity for all who call it home.