Organization: BOYS TO MEN MENTORING NETWORK OF VIRGINIA INC
Mission: Boys to Men Mentoring Network of Virginia, Inc. (the Organization) is a local independent chapter of Boys to Men Mentoring Network, a nonprofit focused on creating site-based mentoring programs. The Organization works in partnership with schools, churches, and other community organizations that serve youth to build a community of mentorship for young men.
Activities: The Circles Program purpose is to give young men a variety of positive male role models who show up consistently and tell the truth about their struggles as men. We focus on young men aged 12-17 with an emphasis on middle school boys, as this is traditionally a time when boys are still impressionable and open to new ideas. Mentors help young men figure out what kind of an adult man he wants to be, praise him for his gifts, support him when he makes mistakes, and encourage him to make good choices on his path to manhood. The desire is for this to be learned from a positive role model verses someone on the street corner
We assist the families and provide tutors for the boys that need the extra help because of our whole child concept. Stepping up for the boys to minimize the stressors in their lives that shape and influence their decision making. Utilizing primarily a growing number of mentors and school professionals to assist us in these processes. Following the proven format of the circle program to remove outside influences and allow concentration to the task at hand. Helping the families ensures follow through on what we have taught outside of the circle and in the home.
The Rite of Passage Adventure Weekend, is the culminating event for boys who have attended for the predominance of the school year in circle. Taking the lessons and modeled behavior into practice in a challenging environment, allowing the boys to stoke the flames of the teenage fire, by reconciling the past, acting in the present and preparing for the future.
NTEE category: Youth Development
Secondary category: Human Services