At Metro United Way, we know quality mentoring relationships for our young people have powerful, positive impact on their social-emotional skills, academics, personal growth and development. Unfortunately, research confirms that nearly every major indicator of economic, social and physical well-being shows that black men and boys in the U.S. do not have access to the structural supports and opportunities needed to thrive.

The 2NOT1 Rite of Passages (ROP) – one of Metro United Way’s Black Male Achievement Innovation Fund grantees – is an out-of-school time (OST) mentoring program that is designed to assist boys with their transition into early adulthood. Through this program, participants are connected with male mentors to share their experiences and perceptions of life while gaining social and critical thinking tools needed to manage potential conflicts, develop self-awareness and confidence.

John is a mentor at 2NOT1 ROP who thought his shy 14-year old cousin, Jarvis, needed a male figure in his life to support him during this critical time of development, so he began mentoring him on a regular basis. With John’s guidance and the help of other mentors at 2NOT1 ROP, Jarvis has made new friends, improved his behavior, consistently made good grades, and boosted his confidence!

“I’m thankful to John for being my mentor, helping me in day-to-day challenges and for being that positive, male figure in my life,” said Jarvis.

Thanks to mentors and quality OST programs like these, Metro United Way is improving outcomes that more of our young people will graduate high school on time, prepared to succeed in college, career, and life!