Name: Didi Wells
Age: 29
Family: My parents and siblings are a short drive away
Pets: I’ve been thinking about getting a dog.
Education: B.A. — Hampton University (2001); J.D. — University of Southern California (2004)
Admitted to the Bar: Florida, 2004
Employed by: Holland & Knight LLP
Field of practice: Commercial litigation
Professional Organizations: Jacksonville Bar Association
Community Involvement:
I serve as a board intern for Community Connections of Jacksonville and as a mentor for Take Stock in Children. I am also an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., a public service organization that aims to provide services and programs to promote human welfare.
How did you get involved?
Prior to joining Holland & Knight, I was an Assistant State Attorney. Too often I prosecuted teenagers for the most heinous of crimes, and I realized that most of these youngsters could not see that there were alternatives to a life of crime and violence. This sparked my desire to serve as a mentor so that I could help youth realize their true potential and know that there is always someone to root them on. I applied to be a mentor with Take Stock because students who successfully complete the program receive a full college scholarship.
I am also currently participating in a non-profit board training series sponsored by Jacksonville Community Council, Inc. (JCCI). Participants in the program are matched with an organization, and I was fortunate to be matched with Community Connections. This is an excellent organization that aims to eliminate the revolving cycle of poverty. Community Connections provides housing, childcare services, and life skills to women and children in need. I have been able to witness firsthand how Community Connections has given homeless women not only shelter, but the love, support and confidence that they need to become self-sufficient and productive citizens.
How can someone else get involved?
Interested mentors with Take Stock should contact Communities in Schools of Jacksonville. JCCI Forward holds regular Leadership Development Programs and Issue Forums. Community Connections is always looking for volunteers and/or donations, so they would welcome your call
What have you learned/achieved through the experience?
I thank God everyday for blessing me with a supportive family, a good education, and a great job. My community involvement helps me realize that there is always more that needs to be done, so I try and do my part to help.
What was the last book you read or are reading?
“It Was Never About a Hot Dog and a Coke” by Rodney Hurst, a local author. This book chronicles the Civil Rights struggles in Jacksonville and points out that the lunch sit-in demonstrations were about taking a stand for justice and equality. As a Jacksonville native, I felt it was important to learn about how far my city has come so that I can continue to do my part to make sure it moves in the right direction.