Allen explains that he felt sheltered from the racism that impacted the lives of other black children around him. How do you think Allen managed to escape the negative effects of racism during the time of segregation?

Out of all of Allen’s contributions, from raising worms for organic compost to organizing a community youth corps, which do you think is his most significant and why?

Allen’s professional career has run the gamut, from professional basketball player to corporate marketing to urban farming. How has he been able to succeed in such diverse fields, and what was he able to bring to each profession that enabled him to do so well?