The Boys II Men mentoring program helps young men find purpose in school and success in life

“*It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.”*
*FREDERICK DOUGLASS*

Boys II Men Mentoring Program: Building Respectful Young Men Who Give Back to Their Community

Boys II Men Mentoring Program

In the 1990s, Lars Rascoe and three male teachers at Gion Creek Middle School noticed that boys who excelled in sports and extracurricular activities often struggled with academics in high school. The teachers attributed this to the lack of respect that many of these boys had for their female teachers. To address this issue, the teachers, all men of color, established the Boys II Men mentoring program in 1995 to help boys learn how to respect women and develop positive behaviors. The program has helped over 2,900 boys from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds over the last 25 years, exceeding the expectations of its founders.

Initially targeting boys in the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades, the program has evolved over time to offer more services for former cadets, including more than 100 college visits and international service projects. The Boys II Men program focuses on building men while respecting women. It helps C and D students become more vocal and encourages them to focus on themselves, leading others to follow in their footsteps. Mentors meet with the cadets in small groups weekly to discuss topics such as self-esteem, accountability, and the importance of respecting women.

The program teaches boys to be responsible for their actions, avoid instant gratification, and value education. It also exposes the boys to service projects that enable them to see the good work that other adults and organizations are doing in their community. The Boys II Men program has received many testimonials from parents, including one from the mother of a former cadet who became a medical student at Carver College of Medicine at the University of Iowa. The Boys II Men mentoring program continues to grow and welcomes all middle school boys who are willing to put in the positive effort and become strong young men who give back to their community.

Rising racial tension, political division, violence, social injustice, and pandemic-induced isolation have contributed to the immense need among families looking for mentorship for their children. The Boys II Men is also receiving more calls from families in need. Group mentorship settings like those provided by The Boys II Men are vital, as they offer kids professional development opportunities, community service projects, and a safe space to play.

Mentoring can take many forms, from one-on-one interactions to group activities and workshops. For example, Black professionals can volunteer their time to mentor young people in their communities, providing them with guidance, advice, and support as they navigate the challenges of growing up. They can also get involved in after-school programs and community initiatives, helping to provide young people with positive role models and a sense of community. Additionally, Black professionals can serve as speakers or workshop leaders, sharing their knowledge and expertise with young people in a variety of settings.

However, becoming a mentor is not without its challenges. Mentors must be willing to commit their time and energy to build strong, supportive relationships with young people. They must also be willing to listen, empathize, and provide guidance without judgment or criticism. Furthermore, mentors must be prepared to navigate the unique challenges and experiences faced by young Black people, including racism, discrimination, and social inequality.

Boys 2 Men Mentoring Program Introduction

Despite these challenges, becoming a mentor can be a deeply rewarding experience. Mentors have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of young people, helping to guide them toward a brighter future. By sharing their experiences and expertise, Black professionals can help to break down barriers and empower the next generation of Black leaders.

In conclusion, the declining number of mentors in Indianapolis is a serious concern for the future of Black youth. While non-profits have stepped up to provide guidance and support, the lack of representation among mentors remains a critical issue. To address this, Black professionals must become mentors in their communities, sharing their experiences and expertise to guide and support young people. By doing so, they can help to create a brighter future for Black youth in Indianapolis and beyond.

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