OUR WISEMEN

The Problem:

While growing up in Camden I began to see that the absence of positive role models had a significant effect on individuals and the community as a whole. I saw that effects of young people not having a role model fell into four general categories. These categories include: psychological maladjustment, school under-performance, antisocial behavior,  and difficulty establishing and continuing intimate relationships. There are innumerable empirical studies that link the absence of role models to a myriad of societal challenges that the youth face. Specifically, individuals without proper role models have a “greater risk” for drug and alcohol abuse, mental illness, suicide, poor educational performance, teen pregnancy, and criminality. All of these problems cultivate an atmosphere of cultural and moral poverty.

OUR Solution: 

 

These issues not only affect the individual but they also have an adverse effect on the community as a whole. As a result I wanted to initiate an establishment of collective individuals who have successfully navigated life's monumentous challenges to serve as role models for our communities and redefine the social norm for men of color.  Our WiseMen vision is to empower men of color by expanding his limited resources to new plateaus; this includes a personalized story that exhibits and showcases each WiseMen's unique journey. We also award and recognize community leaders, volunteer in OUR communities, and promote brotherhood. Additionally, we brand communities together and promote unity within OUR city and address inner city problems that plague communities.

 

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