NEWARK, N.J. (CBSNewYork) — CBS2’s new series, Unifying America, highlights people trying to cross racial and cultural divides that separates so many Americans.

On Wednesday, CBS2’s Jessica Layton profiled a special organization in Newark that partners with police, staying at the scene long after officers leave.

The Newark Community Street Team has been around almost seven years, but its work to unify the city has never been so important.

There’s a special pride Daamin Durden takes in keeping the peace, protecting people from going down the path he did.

“Definitely it is my calling. It comes so easy,” Durden said.

The leading member of the Newark Community Street Team says before he was a mentor he was a menace. He spent 22 years in prison for armed robbery and assault. In fact, most of the members of the high-risk intervention group are lifelong Newark residents who’ve had prior run-ins with the law.

“Credible messengers, non-traditional leaders,” Aqeela Sherrills said.

Sherrills said they reflect who they serve, giving his crew a community connection during conflicts that most cops don’t have. Read and WATCH the news segment >>