Keri Hayes is a community activist and grassroots organizer based in Peoria, Illinois, known for her work advancing civil rights, racial justice, violence prevention, and community empowerment. Through organizing, advocacy, and outreach initiatives, Hayes has worked to support underserved communities and promote positive change at the local level. Hayes is the founder of Purple Hayes Community Outreach, a community-based initiative focused on providing direct support to residents in need through food drives, clothing distribution, outreach events, and violence-prevention campaigns. The organization works to strengthen neighborhoods by connecting community members with resources and encouraging civic engagement. She currently serves as 1st Vice President and Racial Justice Committee Chairwoman for the Peoria chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). In this leadership role, Hayes works to promote civil liberties, racial equity, and community accountability while helping organize initiatives that address social justice issues and encourage public participation in civic matters. Hayes is also a co-founder of the Black Justice Project, a grassroots effort focused on justice reform, community empowerment, and advocacy for equitable treatment under the law. Her activism often involves organizing community discussions, rallies, and outreach initiatives aimed at addressing systemic inequities and strengthening community relationships. Throughout her work, Hayes has collaborated with several community-based initiatives and grassroots organizations including Change Peoria, Peoria Mutual Aid, and the Peoria Peoples Project. Her efforts have focused on community support, violence prevention, and building networks that provide resources and opportunities for residents. Among her community initiatives, Hayes organized the Howard Nathan Stop the Violence Campaign, a grassroots effort focused on raising awareness about violence prevention and promoting unity and healing within neighborhoods affected by violence. In recognition of her dedication to grassroots organizing and community leadership, Hayes was honored with the Community Activist of the Year Award in 2018 by the Peoria Peoples Project. Through her leadership, advocacy, and outreach work, Keri Nichole Hayes continues to support efforts that promote justice, equality, and stronger communities in Peoria and beyond.

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