Across The Country, We Are United in Our Dedication to Keeping Black Boys Alive & Free
Our Journey: A Timeline of Impact
The Vision Begins
– As a former law enforcement officer, our founder, Bruce W. Griggs recognized the urgent need for violence prevention and mentorship for young Black boys.
– Identified that more immersive engagement and proven methodologies would be needed to be effective.
Establishing Our Foundation
– Officially registered as a nonprofit organization in 1997.
– Launched our first program with XX participants in the Bowen Homes Housing Project.
Expanding Our Reach
– Partnered with local Atlanta celebrities such as V-103 DJ Greg Street to expand reach in providing violence prevention workshops and classes to schools, recreation centers, and local municipalities.
– Created S.O.S. (Saving Our Sons) program that provided summer camp and after school programming for black boys in the Atlanta and LaGrange area.
Community Impact Grows
– Served over 500 young boys through mentorship and outreach programs since 19XX.
– Received valuable involvement in programming from local Atlanta luminaries, such as the late Congressman John Lewis, former Mayor Andrew Young, and current Mayor Andre Dickens to expand violence prevention initiatives.
Launch of Alive & Free Boys To Men Lock In and S.O.S. Summer Retreat at Great Wolf Lodge
– Alive & Free Boys To Men Lock In annual event includes an overnight experience that has breakout sessions, support, and mentoring with past special appearances from celebrities, such as 2 Chainz, Michael Vick, and Big Boi of Outkast.
– S.O.S. Summer Retreat at Great Wolf Lodge annual event includes a 3-day experience that has breakout sessions, support, and mentoring. Donors for this event included Kenan Thompson of Saturday Night Live.
– Established partnerships with law enforcement and mental health professionals to enhance the effectiveness of the lock-in.
National Recognition & Continued Growth
– Featured in local and national media for our impact on violence prevention.
– Expanded programs to neighboring communities.
The Future is Bright
– Our goal is to increase our youth programming and transition into more career driven initiatives to enhance the lives of the boys into manhood.
– Continuing to build strong, safe, and thriving communities.
