Kai Duncan of Bridgeport has been chosen as Hang Timer of the Month for October 2024.

When Kai enters the Hang Time Family Gathering you notice him.  He has a dazzling smile and greets each person with warmth.  

My grandfather, Roosevelt Duncan, was my mentor.  “He was the person who showed me how to be a good man and who gives back to the Community.   A good generous person, he would give a stranger the shirt off his back if they needed it.  He held me accountable for my mistakes.  People finished school and were guided by others through difficult situations by him.  He supported my mother and me and kept us on the right path.”  

“My Grandfather past three years ago and the Holidays have become more difficult as I miss his guidance.  I still hear his voice saying, “This is just an obstacle, you will handle it.”  I am dealing with false charges against me, and I will win the battle.  His memory helps me calm down and relax.  Luckily, I still have my Grandmother Mae Brown in my life.”  

Kai is a welcome regular at our family gatherings.  “Hang Time had a special influence on me when I first attended.  I didn’t know what to do with my life or how to handle my case.  When I first heard Charlie Grady’s voice it reminded me of my grandfathers.  I felt like he was there with me.  So, I went again the next week as his vibe was comforting.  Being asked how I am and feeling like people are listening helped.  When I also got a big hug at the end of the night, it reminded me of my grandfather.  I knew I was in the right place.  I am not very spiritual, but it felt like a sign.”  Crissy, Samaris, and Charlie have provided the support Kai needed on his case.  “They show up and speak up for me and I appreciate them so much.”  Kai has completed the Strive Program and has certifications in CPR, First Aid, and Traffic Flagging.   

“My Mom, Liah Duncan, is my best friend.  She had me when she was very young.  I was aware of the struggles she went through to support herself and another mouth to feed.  Seeing her go through so much and still prosper despite it all, is inspiring.  She was always doing what was needed to put us in the best possible situation. At one point we had to move back in with my dad.  I KNOW that was hard to do but she made it work to move us into a better home.  Now she is a Property Manager, and she gets to help others find affordable apartments.  She has reached her goal!”   

Kai is the second oldest of his Father’s four children.  He has struggled in his relationship with him over the years.  “I am proud of myself for the way I handled the relationship with my dad.  When emotions are high, many things do not need to be said.  I was able to hold myself up and respond like a man my grandfather would be proud of.  Life is short.  I didn’t have to regret my word because I kept it together.”  

Kai works six days a week at a warehouse that processes products for Walmart, Amazon, and others. He looks forward to 2025 when things slow down a bit.  He is passionate about sports, especially Football (Baltimore Ravens) and Basketball.  We see an amazing future for Kai and cannot wait to see it unfold.  

What is your favorite Music genre?  Hip Hop, Pop, and Soul. My Grandfather loved Motown and Soul and taught me to appreciate it.  

Where would you most like to travel?  Greece.   The pictures I have seen pictures of that water look amazing. I want to see that shade of blue!  I am also interested in their history. 

What is something People might not know about you?  I am very generous.  When you give love, that lasts forever.  

What do you do to change the world? I make people feel positive. How you make people feel is something no one can take away from them.  

What does Hang Time mean to you?  “These people show up for me.  Nothing can replace that in my experience.”