Founders’ Statement

Aaron Hooper and Crystal Cordes founded this organization with a shared belief that safety, trust, and opportunity are essential for young people to thrive. Together, they bring complementary backgrounds in education, behavioral support, and security, allowing the organization to approach youth development through both a compassionate and practical lens.

With deep roots in the community and extensive experience working with students in school settings, Aaron and Crystal understand the challenges facing youth today, particularly those navigating emotional, behavioral, and environmental stressors. Their combined experience allows the organization to focus not only on prevention and preparedness, but also on relationship-building, mentorship, and skill development.

At its core, the organization is grounded in the belief that when young people feel safe, understood, and supported, they are better equipped to build confidence, make responsible choices, and envision a positive future. Aaron and Crystal remain committed to creating programs that are structured, supportive, and rooted in real-world experience.

 

Crystal Cordes

Crystal Cordes brings a strong background in education, behavioral support, and community-based work to her role within the organization. She has worked in public school settings for over six years, primarily serving middle school students in grades 6–8. Her experience includes three years as a Registered Behavior Technician supporting students with emotional and behavioral needs, as well as two years as a paraprofessional in a behavioral program working with the same age group. Earlier in her career, she also served as a building substitute in a high school setting, supporting students in grades 7–12.

Crystal holds a Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis, a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, and an Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice. Her professional background enables her to approach youth support through both educational and safety-informed lenses.

Having lived and worked in Torrington for the majority of her life, Crystal has a deep understanding of the community and the needs of local youth and families. She is also a mother of two sons with anxiety, depression, and ADHD, which informs her compassionate, practical approach to behavior support and relationship-building.

Crystal is known for her ability to quickly build rapport, form trusting relationships, and de-escalate situations during moments of heightened stress or panic. Her work is driven by a belief in proactive support, safety, and creating environments where young people feel understood, respected, and capable of success.

Aaron Hooper

Aaron Hooper brings extensive experience in security, protection, and leadership to his role within the organization. His approach emphasizes prevention, preparation, and maintaining a calm, low-profile presence that supports safety without disruption.

Aaron has over 20 years of experience across law enforcement, executive protection, and private security. His background includes service with the New York City Police Department in school safety, executive and personal protection for high-profile individuals, and security leadership for nationally recognized television productions and live events. He has also worked with Lionsgate Studios and in other high-exposure environments requiring sound judgment, adaptability, and absolute discretion.

In addition to his security career, Aaron spent three years working in a public middle school serving grades 6–8. This experience strengthened his ability to engage with youth, maintain structured environments, and de-escalate challenging situations while building trust with students and staff.

As the founder of First Priority Security, Aaron brings a safety-informed lens to the nonprofit’s work, focusing on preparedness, situational awareness, and responsible decision-making. He is known for his steady presence, clear communication, and leadership in high-pressure environments.