STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Life is full of struggles, but for one man, maintaining hope in vulnerable Staten Island communities isn’t just a goal — it’s a life mission.

Pastor David Beidel, 61, is the president and founder of Urban Hope NYC, a local non-profit organization that aims to connect all members of the public with a local church community and provides a number of programs for at-risk youth.

A Staten Island upbringing

Beidel, a West Brighton resident and father of four, came to Staten Island when he was just 7 years old. His family first came to New York from Sitka, Alaska.

As a child, Beidel grew up in Great Kills, attended PS 8, Barnes Intermediate School (I.S. 24) and graduated from Tottenville High School.

Beidel went away to college for two years, but unfortunately, his fathe

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