ARDELL LA’MOND HARRISON

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPER - OUT REACH CONSTRUCTION

Ardell L. Harrison, a resident of Sacramento since 1980, has been a pillar of his community for decades, leveraging his diverse professional background to make a significant impact on the lives of many. His journey began with a solid educational foundation, earning both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Behavior Science from National University, along with a Teaching Credential in Construction Technology from Sacramento State University.

Harrison’s passion for community service is evident in his work with New Dimensions Learning Academy (N.D.L.A.) and New Dimensions Group Homes (N.D.G.H.). As the Director and Owner of N.D.L.A., he developed a statefunded private high school for severely emotionally disturbed at-risk teens, employing a team of teachers, psychologists, and administrative support to help these students reach their full potential. His efforts were recognized in the Sacramento Observer for outstanding contributions to the enhancement of “at-risk” youth and community support.

Prior to N.D.L.A., Harrison founded N.D.G.H., a 20-bed residential care and treatment facility for severely emotionally disturbed teenagers and their infants. The facility helped over 50 children enhance their emotional wellbeing and gain independent living skills, a testament to Harrison’s commitment to supporting the most vulnerable in his community.

In addition to his work in education and mental health, Harrison has a long-standing career in construction and real estate. As a licensed General Contractor and Real Estate Broker, he has managed and completed the construction of over 50 homes in Northern California and supervised real estate agents in the sale of commercial and residential properties. His construction projects include significant contributions to the Sacramento Housing & Redevelopment Agency Façade Grant and the construction of UC Davis Primate Center, Days Inn, and Pittsburgh Des Moines Steel building.

When he’s not working, Harrison cherishes spending time with his family. His son Joshua, a successful software engineer, and his daughter Jessica, an entrepreneur following in her father’s footsteps, are sources of immense pride for him. He also enjoys the companionship of his loving partner, Maggie, who shares his commitment to community service.

Harrison’s diverse professional experience, from education and mental health to construction and real estate, has uniquely positioned him to understand and address the multifaceted needs of his community. His commitment to service, and the NAACP where he is presently the first vice president coupled with his expertise and leadership, continues to make a significant impact on the lives of many in Sacramento. His personal life, filled with love and support from his family, fuels his passion for making a difference in his community.

FAVORITES:

Book or Magazine: New Homes

Cologne: Musk

OUR CONVERSATION:

Trademark: Out Reach Construction

Black woman you admire: Oprah - strong , determined and rich.

What is SEXY about a woman and what is NOT: Sexy: Dress, hair, legs, and personality; Not: phony, unapproachable.

Your best work day strategy: Rise 5:30 am and workout, meditate, and make my list of things to do.

Greatest achievement: The jury is still out, but I really like helping people.

Did you have a mentor and how did they help shape your values in life? Cleave Howard and John Gordon. Both taught me to be strong in my faith and have good work ethics.

Defining a Black man in leadership? NAACP - a man ready to take on a fight and help the less fortune.

I am COMMITTED to: The NAACP - the reasons are self evident. There is constant need to help the community in these trying times.

Slogan you live by: Let’s get into some good trouble.

Best advice for young black men trying to find their way to succeed in school, pursue a career, avoid gang/gun violence, overcome substance abuse or suicide/depression: Stay true to your path. Get a good mentor, and stay around people who are doing better than you, also you can grow with, STAY AWAY FROM DREAM KILLERS AND NEGATIVE PEOPLE.

What do you like about Sacculturalhub.com & THE HUB Magazine? Because you keep it real. n

On GOOD HEALTH MATTERS:

Do you see the doctor for annual exams? Yes

Do you see the need for exercise at least 3 days week and if so what does your exercise program include? Yes - 3 miles a day for one hour

Do you see the need to change your diet plan and if so share with how this has helped you with maintaining and/or improving your overall health? Diet is very important. Constant updating, less greasy food, more salads and balanced meals.