Q&A With Chris "Kazi" Rolle

Why do you care so much about homeless youth issues?

Cause I lived through it myself. I also understand that I was lucky to still be alive and not locked up. I now have a duty to assist others in avoiding what I had to endure.

What do you want people to know about homeless youth that you don't think they already know?

You have to power assist homeless youth—right there in your midst—and you probably don't even know it. You may see homeless youth and not be aware that they are homeless. I was house hopping from friend to friend. Their parents thought I was just spending the night or hanging out late.

If someone asked you how they can help, what would you say?

I would say volunteer at the nearest shelters, have a party and make the admission price a bags of clothes that you donate to shelters, or contact the U.S. House Representatives TODAY and urge them to co-sponsor H.R. 5524, the "Reconnecting Homeless Youth Act of 2008".

Why are you involved with the National Network for Youth?

When I was homeless I didn't know about any of the resources that were available to me. When I found out about National Network For Youth I was shocked. I said to myself, ah man, if I only knew then what I know now. I promised myself when I became famous I would use my celebrity to highlight things that I missed out on. This is one of them.

What is the Hip Hop Project and why is it important to you?

The Hip Hop Project a program I created that uses Hip Hop culture to engage, heal and empower young people. We connect them with artists and executives in the music industry to guide them as they produce and market their own compilation Hip Hop album. I get everyone form Russell Simmons to Jay Z to come and teach these young people the real deal on becoming success stories.

Growing up in foster care and being homeless for most of my teenage years, I brought a lot of emotional issues to school. Academics didn't help me heal from the scars and hurt that I was dealing with. Music was my only outlet.

Do you think youth can make a difference in this year's election?

During Christmas time, kids influence their parent to buys all sorts of the stuff. Young people are aware that the power to influence adults. Young adults are engaged in politics nowadays. Many politicians have been utilizing the Internet and new media sources to push their campaign. These are where young people dominate and learn from. Thus with knowledge comes power. Young people are more aware of their power in the election process. We have been seeing it in the stats of who's voting—and who's winning.

Tell me about some young people you've met and how they have surprised you.

The human spirit is resilient. Some of the adversity that I have seen young people battle and overcome amazes and inspires me.

I met a kid named Rusty Booker out of Kentucky. Who grew up in an abusive home, and eventually went in and out of the foster care system. Most kids with his background end up in the penitentiary and now he has gone on to help other kids and help to heal others by sharing his story. He has even spoken at congress. A true inspiration.

I met a young lady from Watts, Los Angeles and she has seen the worst of it. Foster care, homelessness, rape. Still when you see her you would never know—her demeanor is strong and serene. Her vision for the future is crystal clear and optimistic. Wow!! It makes me want to do better and it make me see that there is nothing that can break me. If these kids can do it I can. Also you realize with that spirit and a little help these war stories can come success stories.

If you could tell the lawmakers one thing, what would it be?

Go out and tell your local senators to Co-sponsor H.R. 5524, the "Reconnecting Homeless Youth Act of 2008"!!!!!