Mayoral Candidate Andre Dodson
PASTOR of CITY OF LIFE
Apostle Andre Dodson Sr. is a dynamic and visionary leader who has dedicated over two decades to pastoral ministry, bringing hope, transformation, and spiritual revival to countless lives. As the esteemed leader of City of Life, he shepherds his congregation with unwavering faith, profound wisdom, and a heart deeply committed to the holistic development of individuals and families. Apostle Dodson is renowned for his passionate preaching, insightful biblical teaching, and his ability to inspire both spiritual growth and personal empowerment. His ministry is marked by a deep commitment to healing, restoration, and equipping believers to walk in their divine purpose. Throughout his 20+ years in ministry, Apostle Dodson has cultivated a reputation for his exceptional leadership, mentoring, and dedication to community outreach. He has spearheaded numerous initiatives designed to uplift, educate, and support individuals facing adversity, ensuring that his church is not just a place of worship but a hub for transformation and renewal. His pastoral vision extends beyond the pulpit—he is an advocate for social change, a counselor to those in need, and a spiritual father to many. Under his leadership, City of Life has flourished as a beacon of faith, fostering an environment where lives are changed, families are restored, and
communities are strengthened. Apostle Dodson’s impact extends beyond his local church. As a sought-after speaker, teacher, and mentor, he has shared his wisdom on a national platform, bringing powerful messages of faith, deliverance, and empowerment. His ability to connect with diverse audiences and deliver thought-provoking, life-changing teachings has solidified his role as a respected voice in the body of believers. His unwavering commitment to the gospel, coupled with his heart for service, continues to make an indelible mark in the kingdom of God.
Talk about your brand
FOUNDER & DIRECTOR OF CIVILIANS AGAINST VIOLENCE
Apostle Andre Dodson Sr. is not only a dedicated spiritual leader but also a passionate advocate for peace, justice, and community restoration. As the Founder and Director of Civilians Against Violence, he has committed himself to the critical mission of eradicating violence, fostering unity, and empowering individuals to become catalysts for change. Under his leadership, Civilians Against Violence has become a transformative force, providing education, advocacy, and direct support to communities affected by crime and social unrest. Apostle Dodson’s unwavering commitment to this cause stems from his deep belief that true healing and societal change begin with empowered, informed, and united civilians. Through strategic initiatives, grassroots engagement, and collaborative partnerships, Civilians Against Violence has implemented
groundbreaking programs that address the root causes of violence while promoting conflict resolution, mentorship, and community rebuilding. Apostle Dodson understands that violence is not just a physical act but a symptom of deeper social, economic, and emotional struggles. That’s why his organization works tirelessly to provide intervention services, youth outreach, and support for families impacted by violence, ensuring that hope is restored where despair once prevailed. His ability to bring diverse groups together—civic leaders, law enforcement, faith-based organizations, and everyday citizens—has created a powerful movement dedicated to lasting change. Apostle Dodson’s leadership in the nonprofit sector reflects his profound dedication to advocacy and social justice. His voice resonates far beyond the walls of the church, reaching into the streets, schools, and homes where transformation is desperately needed. Whether he is mentoring young men
at risk, offering support to grieving families, or leading city-wide
initiatives for safer communities, his influence is undeniable. Through Civilians Against Violence, he continues to inspire action, mobilize resources,
and change lives—proving that with faith, resilience, and collective effort,
communities can rise above violence and thrive in unity and peace.
BOXING COACH
Beyond his impactful work in ministry and community advocacy, Apostle Andre Dodson Sr. is also a dedicated boxing coach, using the discipline and structure of the sport to empower and mentor individuals both inside and outside the ring. With a deep understanding of the resilience and
mental toughness required in life’s battles, he has seamlessly merged his passion for boxing with his commitment to personal development, helping young
men and women channel their energy into something positive. His training philosophy extends beyond physical conditioning—he instills values of discipline, perseverance, and self-control, ensuring that his fighters develop both as athletes and as individuals. Having walked a path of personal transformation himself,
Coach Dodson knows firsthand the power of second chances having walked a path of personal transformation himself. Apostle Andre Dodson Sr. grew up in East Cleveland, Ohio, during the late 1980s and early 1990s—a time when the city was facing a downward spiral marked by economic decline, crime, and violence. Like many young men navigating the harsh realities of his environment, he found himself caught up in a destructive lifestyle, making choices that led him down a dangerous path. Through divine intervention and a personal awakening, Apostle Dodson made a radical shift, leaving behind a life of chaos to pursue a path of faith, purpose, and leadership. His firsthand experience with the struggles of the streets gives him a unique and powerful voice—one that resonates deeply with those who feel trapped by their circumstances. Today, he stands as a living testament to redemption, proving that no past is too broken for restoration and no individual is beyond the reach of change. He uses boxing as a tool to reach those who, like himself in his younger years, may be struggling with direction, anger, or past mistakes. The gym is not just a place to train—it’s a sanctuary where individuals find guidance, mentorship, and purpose. Whether he’s coaching an amateur fighter, mentoring a young person away from the streets, or pushing an athlete to their highest potential, his impact extends far beyond the sport. Through his dedication to coaching, he continues to shape champions—not just in the ring,
but in life.
Testimonial
Art McCoy, Entrepreneur
Hello and Greetings from Art McKoy. If I may take a little of your valuable time to tell you about my friend and associate Andre Dodson. I have been knowing this young man practically all my life. I can say proudly that I am filled with joy watching Andre navigate the many obstacles in life and become a model citizen in our community. It truly amazes me the way he was able to overcome a negative environment and become successful in life and business. I have been in business for over 50 years, which gave me an excellent opportunity to observe Mr. Dodson from a distance and close up. When others were cutting school, he was studying. When his peers were drinking and drugging, he stayed sober and started counseling others to do the right thing. While others were at the bar, he was studying to become an outstanding minister. Through the years, Andre has always continued to uplift himself and cared deeply about our community. Whenever I needed Mr. Dodson to lend a helping hand whether it was in the community, in the schools or in the spiritual community, I could depend on him. If I could sum up the way I feel about Andre Dodson, I would say that I am 80 years old, and as one gets older, he begins to think about his legacy and who will carry the torch responsibly. Without a doubt, I trust and believe it will be an honor to pass the torch to Andre Dodson. I can depend on him to be an outstanding family man, a successful businessman and a man deeply rooted and caring about our people and the community. - Art McKoy, Owner of SuperFly Barber Shop for 40 years, Restaurant Entrepreneur, Organizer and Founder of Black on Black, Inc. (216.253.4070)
Testimonial
Robert Starks, Resident
Hello, my name is Robert Starks, and my parents purchased a home here in East Cleveland back in 1969. I have lived here all of my life and have known the Dodson family for over thirty years. I have known Andre for his whole life. Andre came from humble beginnings and outgrew all short comings and mistakes from his past. He has shown integrity in leadership and carries himself with respect. These are some of the qualifications and principles we need for the next upcoming Mayor of East Cleveland. So, I believe everyone should join the movement along with me and vote for Andre Dodson as East Cleveland Mayor for 2025 and beyond.
Testimonial
Derrick Rose, Pastor
Grace and Peace As a testimony on behalf of Andre' Dodson; I can Truly say after knowing, being around and working close by his side for about the past 15 years,... That he is a man of Integrity/ a man of his word/ Punctual/ Someone who genuinely cares for others-mainly those who cannot care for themselves/ a person who will go out of his way and sacrifice for others, no matter what the cost/ a man that truly Loves and Care for his Wife and children consistently/ a person who has a love and genuine concern for not only the people around him in his circle but also people in the Community/City and desires change in their lives for the better. He is a Man you can depend on and Trust/ Someone who desires greater and Excellence for not only himself, but other around him and will put himself last and sacrifice for others before himself. He is a Man of Discipline/ And Last but not Least, he is a "Man of God", a God fearing Man, humbled and a Man that wants to to change for the better and cares for the people! This is my testimony, no exaggeration, but truth from my experience up as a witness of Apostle Andre' Dodson...A Man of Honor!
Testimonial
David W Radcliffe Sr., Resident
My name is David W. Radcliffe Sr., and I am a proud resident of East Cleveland. I purchased my home here in 2003 and still live in the same house. I grew up in East Cleveland, attending Mayfair Elementary, W.H. Kirk Middle School, and The Shaw High School. During my childhood, I met Andre Dodson. He was small but strong-willed and always held his own. We grew up together in East Cleveland, navigating the challenges of our youth. Like many, we made mistakes along the way, but we also learned and grew from them. Andre, however, matured far sooner than I did. He made a conscious decision to change his mindset and his actions for the better. He became a preacher and a nonprofit leader, dedicating his life to uplifting the same community he came from. He returned to the streets—not to take from them, but to rebuild them. Andre devoted himself to helping those who felt lost and forgotten, always offering his time and energy to anyone in need. He earned the trust of the people because they knew his journey and saw firsthand what he had become. Andre Dodson is a man of integrity, faith, and humility. He embodies the change that East Cleveland needs. Believe me, I know.