The Strength of Street Knowledge

Meet the Project Manager of the Safe & Thriving Youth Initiative

In the heart of Des Moines, a new voice has emerged to help guide United Way of Central Iowa’s Safe and Thriving Youth coalition. Antonio Roddy, widely known as “Tone the MoveMaker,” has been selected as project manager to help implement the Safe & Thriving Youth Violence Reduction Plan. With a rich background in community engagement and a deep understanding of the challenges facing local youth, Tone is poised to make a significant impact in his new role.

From Chicago's South Side to Central Iowa

Raised on the south side of Chicago, Tone grew up amidst stark contrasts—affluent neighborhoods adjacent to areas plagued by poverty and violence. This environment instilled in him a desire to bridge divides and seek better opportunities. In 2009, a visit to his brother at Iowa State University opened his eyes to new possibilities. Observing the vibrancy of Campustown and its potential, he decided to stay and carve out a new path. Starting with a hot dog stand, MunchieZ Snack Stop, Tone immersed himself in the community, producing radio shows, hosting events, and eventually acquiring multiple commercial spaces.

Designed by the Streets: Empowering Through Creativity

In 2015, Tone relocated to Des Moines, where he founded “Designed by the Streets,” a creative enterprise that merges fashion, art, and social commentary. Operating out of Mainframe Studios, his brand offers custom apparel and promotional items. Beyond merchandise, the venture serves as a platform for youth engagement, providing workshops and mentorship to help young people channel their experiences into creative expression.

In 2022, he unveiled “Anything Is Possible,” a 40-foot interactive art installation in Downtown Des Moines. The piece, featuring projection mapping and augmented reality, was a collaborative effort involving interns from local colleges and community programs. This project not only showcased technological innovation but also emphasized community involvement and the transformative power of art.

Role in the Safe and Thriving Youth Coalition

Tone was an active member of the Safe and Thriving Youth coalition from its formation. As he saw acts of youth violence increase in 2022, he knew he had a perspective and a voice that could help unite the community, and he saw the Safe and Thriving Youth coalition as a group of leaders who could come together to form a plan to make a difference with youth in central Iowa.

As Project Manager for the Safe and Thriving Youth Coalition, Tone will be at the forefront of implementing the comprehensive plan to reduce youth violence in central Iowa. The initiative focuses on community engagement, cross-sector collaboration, and addressing root causes of violence through prevention and intervention strategies.

Tone's responsibilities include coordinating coalition meetings, managing outreach efforts, and ensuring that the voices of those most affected by youth violence are heard and integrated into the plan’s execution. Funded through the Catalyst Circle at the Greater Des Moines Community Foundation, his role is crucial in building bridges between various stakeholders, including law enforcement, social service agencies, and community members, to create a unified front against youth violence.

“Tone has been a mentor to youth for several years through Designed by the Streets, helping youth become entrepreneurs. He knows how to engage with young people, but he’s also a respected leader in our community. That experience will be invaluable as he continues to work with young people, neighbors, community leaders, policymakers, law enforcement, and all types of community stakeholders to work together to prevent gun violence among youth, reduce shootings, and improve access to services for community members impacted by violence,” says Luke Lynch, senior community engagement officer at United Way. “Establishing and nurturing these partnerships is crucial for the successful and sustainable implementation of the community-wide youth violence reduction plan.”

A Vision Rooted in Experience

Tone's personal journey—from navigating the challenges of Chicago's streets to becoming a community leader in Iowa—provides him with unique insights into the struggles faced by at-risk youth. His approach emphasizes authenticity, resilience, and the belief that individuals can transform their circumstances. By leveraging his experiences and creative talents, Tone aims to inspire and empower the next generation, demonstrating that change is possible when communities come together with purpose and passion.

“I just want young people to know that your story might start with struggle,” says Tone, “but it’s going to end with strength.”