The Men of Distinction mentoring program in November kicked off its second year with guest speaker Vince Peterson.
The program was launched at Jefferson last year but has expanded this year to include Willard. The program targets boys in grades 6 though 8 and pairs them with men in the community.
Mentors come from all walks of life, including local pastors, business leaders, coaches and community organizers. The program aims to teach young boys that no matter what their circumstances are, they have control over their own lives and have the power to make their own choices.
The middle schoolers and their mentors participate in community service projects, social activities and school functions. Once a week, the pairs get together to discuss grades, school behavior, peer pressure or family issues.
The mentorship program serves as another example of Warren City Schools’ Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) efforts put into action by encouraging the development of self-awareness and self-management skills to achieve school and life success; using social-awareness and interpersonal skills to establish and maintain positive relationships; and demonstrating decision-making skills and responsible behaviors in personal, school and community contexts.The program is made possible through grant funding from the Turning Foundation.
