It’s no secret that our community is navigating a time of unprecedented uncertainty and challenges. But as we’ve seen in the last 5 months - ReCity is not just a place. ReCity is a people and a purpose.

To continue serving Durham’s community leaders who are working harder than ever, we’ve expanded the ReCity Team. Say hello to Deryle Daniels and Tanner Smith! These two will be jumping into one of the most difficult seasons that our community has experienced to help the ReCity Network continue to pursue its shared purpose - to build thriving communities, rooted in justice.

Read below to hear more from Deryle and Tanner on their journeys and their new positions at ReCity!

From Deryle:

What’s going on everybody? I’m Deryle Daniels, Jr., ReCity’s new Development Coordinator! (Go ahead, get excited! I am!) I’m a native of Durham, born and raised. I am an alumnus of UNC-Greensboro, where I serve on the Bryan School’s Alumni Board of Directors. I come to ReCity having helped startups, universities, local nonprofits, graduate schools, and political advocacy organizations tell their stories to both increase awareness and secure funds. I’m excited to do that here working alongside all of you to make Durham a more just and equitable community.

My downtime is spent between photojournalism, exercising and the grill. My wife, Desirée, and I love to travel internationally but it looks like that won’t be happening again until 2021, fingers crossed. One of my absolute favorite things to do is babysit my nephews and niece, of which I have 5 and a 6th is due on Christmas Day. The 10-month old just learned to walk so I’m going to have to guard the stairs from now on.

I’m looking forward to seeing all of you around ReCity and definitely on the virtual Town Halls. If you want to grab coffee and chat on the patio about all things Durham, fundraising, travel, storytelling, or whatever else, feel free to e-mail me at deryle@recitynetwork.org.

From Tanner:

Surprise, I’m still here! I started working with ReCity as the partnership intern back in January and because of some sweet circumstances, I get the privilege to stay on as the programming coordinator! I graduated from UNC Chapel Hill in May with a degree in Human Development and Family Studies, and the plan right now is to study counseling next year at Denver Theological Seminary. I love backpacking, reading, and hanging out with friends, and I’m still dreaming of being a barista at some point. I’m really excited for all that this new role will entail and can’t wait to reveal some fun events we have coming for our partners. I am so thankful that goodbyes have been postponed with the ReCity team and community at whole, and I am ready to keep developing and connecting new relationships. When you see me (virtually), you can ask me about Harry Potter and camping!