The Rev. Korey O’Neal, left, is greeted by Assistant Special Agent in Charge Daniel Dunn. | FBI Jacksonville
Published on February 3, 2026 at 3:23 pm
Free local news and info, in your inbox at 6 a.m. M-F. Sign up for the Jacksonville Today newsletter.
Project RISE Program Director Korey O’Neal received the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award for his partnership with the agency’s Jacksonville office to combat violent crime and violent gang activity in the region.
Project RISE’s work includes providing access to job placement, education, medical services and other services to youth.
Jacksonville Today thanks our sponsors. Become one.
The pastor and his nonprofit also provide guidance to people and their family members about critical resources and alternatives to incarceration or gang involvement.
FBI Jacksonville‘s Safe Streets Task Force has worked with Project RISE and other local law enforcement partners since 2021 on a community-based violence reduction strategy focused on engagement with underprivileged youth.
“Our partnership with Pastor O’Neal and Projects has impacted the lives of countless at-risk youths and their families in our area,” Jason Carley, FBI Jacksonville special agent in charge, said in a news release. “In addition, Pastor O’Neal’s leadership and compassion have built lasting trust between law enforcement and the community, showing that real change happens when we work together.”
Jacksonville Today thanks our sponsors. Become one.
O’Neal said: “I’m building a legacy of impact, not a record of possessions. I choose to be impactful instead of impressive.”
The Director’s Community Leadership Award was created in 1990 to honor people and organizations for their contributions to the prevention of crime and violence in the community. FBI field offices around the country annually select a community partner to receive the award.
