Board Member
Brief info
William Council, affectionately referred to as "Billy" or "Coach Billy," is a dynamic and multifaceted individual with a vision for a vibrant future in Harlem and its surrounding communities. As an entrepreneur, community advocate, film producer, coach, and mentor, this Harlem native is dedicated to fostering positive change and building resilient communities, particularly for those often marginalized.
Billy's impact as a basketball coach and co-founder of The Rens, a prominent New York City basketball program, has been significant. Through this initiative, he imparts life skills, values, morals, and discipline to the youth, contributing to the development of sought-after athletes during his impressive 19-year tenure in the basketball circuit.
Merging his passion for basketball and filmmaking, Billy produced the compelling behind-the-scenes documentary "Little Ballers" for Nickelodeon. Collaborating with Executive Producer Crystal McCrary, musician Lupe Fiasco, and NBA star Amaré Stoudemire, the documentary received an NAACP Award nomination for Best Children's Film. Building on this success, Coach Billy co-produced "Little Baller Indiana" in 2017.
As the Founder of the CouncilHim Foundation, a nonprofit organization with a primary mission to inspire, empower, and equip young men of color, Billy has made a lasting impact. In its five-year existence, the foundation has not only assisted hundreds of youths but has also provided support to adults and families. Through both his nonprofit and personal efforts, Billy continues to extend aid to the Harlem community and reaches out to communities across the country through various initiatives.
In 2021, propelled by an unwavering commitment to drive change, Billy initiated a campaign for City Council in Harlem District 9—the community he holds dear and where he spent his formative years. This political endeavor aimed to magnify his positive impact on a broader scale. Subsequently, in 2023, Billy established Son-Day Dinner with the primary goal of creating a secure environment for Black men of diverse age groups to unite, fostering a strong sense of community, and addressing prevalent issues that often impact communities of color.
Billy's dedication extends beyond Harlem, encompassing various communities within New York and across the United States. His persistent efforts have earned him multiple awards and recognition, showcasing the impact of his unwavering commitment to positive change.