lasting impact
Dr. Puranda has traveled the country inspiring first responders, shaping leadership policies, and helping young people rediscover hope. Yet, his greatest source of pride is his family. Married for 16 years, he resides in Charlotte, NC with his wife, their two adult children, and their twin boys.
For the past nine years, Dr. Kareem and his team have worked tirelessly to impact the lives of law enforcement officers and at‑risk youth. The work hasn’t always been easy, but the opportunity to empower and enlighten others makes every challenge worthwhile.
Dr. Puranda’s most meaningful accomplishment is being a present husband and father.
KAREEM'S JOURNEY
Growing up in the early ‘80’s of the Bronx, NY, Kareem experienced poverty, violence, crime and trauma. Raised by a single parent he had little to no adult supervision and found mischief in the streets. Multiple fights, suspensions, expelled from school and left back twice, he was heading quickly towards jail or death. However, football was the conduit that earned him a scholarship to college. Inspired by a police chief, Kareem obtained his bachelor’s and master’s degrees and began a promising career in law enforcement.
He was proud to protect & serve his community. Yet, unhealed wounds followed him into adulthood and Officer Puranda went from Top Cop to Indictments.
Recognizing the critical need for mental health support within the communities he served and among his fellow officers, Kareem founded the nonprofit, Achieving Success on Purpose, Inc. | Free Youth Counseling to help youth who struggled like he did. His nonprofit offers life skill classes, parent workshops and free counseling to at-risk youth, and those involved in the juvenile justice system.
In 2017, Kareem opened Self-Talk Counseling & Consulting | Mental Health & Addiction Services – Charlotte, NC. His practice is a sanctuary for populations on both sides of the law, seeking solace and guidance. Specializing in first responders, particularly law enforcement officers, Kareem supports police officers who wrestle with the challenges of law enforcement work. Kareem’s expertise as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist has helped hundreds of law enforcement professionals and other first responders.
In 2021 Kareem earned his PhD in Public Policy and Administration, solidifying his advocacy for programs and policies that prioritize mental health support within the law enforcement industry.
Leaning on his principles from Patrolling Your Purpose™, Dr. Puranda helps law enforcement officers with the self-awareness needed to manage their careers more effectively.
​
Today, he is recognized as one of the preferred speakers for law enforcement agencies, conferences, first responder trainings, youth organizations and schools.
