Meet Reginald “CAT” Beasley- From prison to peace

Reginald Beasley, also known as CAT, began his journey as a peacemaker in an unexpected place: federal prison. Growing up in East St. Louis, CAT was no stranger to the violence that grips so many communities. During his incarceration, he found himself in a unique position: conflict mediation between gangs. He was appointed Commissioner of Recreation and united the community by organizing sports tournaments and competitions. This sparked his passion for violence intervention work, leading him to us at Mission: St. Louis. 

As a violence interrupter, CAT’s job is to pinpoint individuals that are at high risk of engaging in violent crime. His approach is simple yet powerful: he meets people with peace, love, and a handshake, sharing his own story to inspire change. He also utilizes this opportunity to introduce individuals to the programs offered by Mission: St. Louis. 

“I find them, I mentor them, I befriend them, and we mediate beef,” CAT explains. “That comes with engaging the community, being out there in the community, befriending them.” 

Even if the change is not immediately visible, the impact of the work CAT and other SHOW ME PEACE members are doing is undeniable as it is building the foundation for lasting peace. CAT shares that he is often greeted with smiles, acknowledgment, and words of encouragement in the neighborhoods he works in.  

“The first thing they say is, ‘We like what y'all doing. We glad y'all out of it.’  They also call us when things are going on.”