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Charlotte Launches New Justice Institute to Enhance Community Relations

Community members and law enforcement officials engaging in dialogue at the D2C Justice Institute launch event.

Charlotte, February 17, 2026

In a significant move towards improving relations between law enforcement and local communities, the D2C Justice Institute has been launched in Charlotte. Founded by M. Quentin Williams, the institute aims to foster cooperation and trust, reflecting a broader national push for community justice reform. With plans for a satellite office in Charlotte and programs already impacting 32 states, this initiative is set to expand its outreach and effect positive change in public safety and justice across the nation.

Charlotte Bolsters Community Justice Efforts with National Institute Launch

Charlotte, NC – A significant expansion in community justice initiatives has taken place with the official launch of a new justice institute aimed at strengthening the relationship between law enforcement and communities across the nation. M. Quentin Williams, a former FBI agent and the founder of the Charlotte-based nonprofit Dedication to Community (D2C), announced the opening of the D2C Justice Institute. This new institute, established at the University of Mount Saint Vincent, seeks to bridge existing divides and foster cooperation between police and the diverse populations they serve. D2C also plans to establish its first satellite office in Charlotte, further solidifying its local presence while extending its reach nationally.

The launch of the D2C Justice Institute marks a pivotal moment in ongoing efforts to enhance understanding and trust within communities. D2C, headquartered in Charlotte, has actively pursued its mission for five years, developing programs that have impacted law enforcement and young people in 32 states Nationwide. The organization’s core mission is to bring communities and law enforcement closer, striving for a unified approach to public safety and justice.

Expanding Reach and Impact

The new institute is a natural progression of D2C’s successful programs, which have focused on two main objectives: building better community partnerships with law enforcement agencies and providing mentorship to young individuals. In recent years, D2C has forged new alliances with significant organizations, including the NCAA and educational institutions across the nation, demonstrating a broad commitment to its goals. The institute’s training programs are designed to be dynamic, even incorporating contemporary issues such as recent immigration operations to ensure relevance and effectiveness in current community-law enforcement interactions.

This expansion underscores a persistent need for initiatives that promote dialogue and cooperation in a societal landscape often characterized by polarization in discussions surrounding law enforcement. The D2C Justice Institute aims to equip both community members and law enforcement professionals with the necessary tools for meaningful engagement and collaboration. Looking ahead, D2C has indicated a major announcement is anticipated at the end of March concerning its expanded presence within North Carolina.

Broader Context of Justice Reform

The establishment of the D2C Justice Institute in Charlotte aligns with a broader Nationwide movement towards criminal justice reform and fostering improved community relations. Organizations like Black Lives Matter, for example, have consistently advocated for various policy changes centered on Black liberation and reforming the criminal justice system Nationwide. These widespread calls for change highlight the urgency and importance of programs that actively work to address systemic issues and build equitable relationships.

Locally, leaders within the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police have also been engaged in discussions regarding initiatives to enhance public trust and safety. On December 4, 2025, law enforcement professionals at local, state, and federal levels convened to discuss various strategies. Such ongoing dialogues at the local level demonstrate a shared commitment to developing and implementing solutions that serve the community effectively. Additionally, other Charlotte-based programs, such as Freedom Fighting Missionaries and the Center for Community Transitions, also contribute to the local ecosystem of support for individuals impacted by the criminal justice system, focusing on aspects like reentry and family services. These collective efforts from various organizations, both local and Nationwide, underscore a dedicated push towards a more just and inclusive society.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the D2C Justice Institute?

The D2C Justice Institute is a new justice institute launched by former FBI agent M. Quentin Williams and his Charlotte-based nonprofit Dedication to Community (D2C). It aims to bridge divides between law enforcement and communities across the nation.

Who founded the D2C Justice Institute?

The D2C Justice Institute was founded by M. Quentin Williams, a former FBI agent and the CEO and founder of Dedication to Community (D2C).

What are the primary objectives of D2C?

D2C focuses on two primary objectives: working with law enforcement agencies to build better community partnerships and mentoring young people.

Where is the D2C Justice Institute primarily located?

The D2C Justice Institute was established at the University of Mount Saint Vincent, with D2C planning to establish its first satellite office in Charlotte.

How many states has D2C’s program worked in?

D2C’s program has worked across 32 states Nationwide.

When did Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police leaders discuss initiatives to increase public trust and safety?

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police leaders discussed initiatives to increase public trust and safety on December 4, 2025.

Key Features of the D2C Justice Institute and Dedication to Community (D2C)

Feature Description Geographic Scope
Founder M. Quentin Williams (former FBI agent) N/A
Organization Name Dedication to Community (D2C) Charlotte-based headquarters
New Initiative D2C Justice Institute National (with satellite office in Charlotte)
Primary Objectives Building better community partnerships with law enforcement; Mentoring young people Nationwide
Operational Reach Programs in 32 states Nationwide
New Partnerships NCAA, schools Nationwide
Future Expansion Major announcement for North Carolina presence expected end of March State-level (North Carolina)


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HERE Charlotte
Author: HERE Charlotte

The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.

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