Something extraordinary is happening at Havenview Middle School. Through a new after-school club, sixth-grade African-American boys will have the opportunity to participate in mentoring sessions in partnership with 100 Black Men of Memphis (BMOM). The program is designed to support students through five core pillars: character building, leadership development, interpersonal skills, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

Allison Banks, family engagement liaison at Havenview, recognized a need for strong male role models for young African-American boys at the school. To help bridge that gap, she met with 100 BMOM. Reflecting on the collaboration, Banks said, “In this partnership, they are bridging the gap to connect with our male students starting in sixth grade. They’ll understand what it means to be a young African-American male and transition into society. With that initiative, they are giving away scholarships to the students who continue in the program until their eighth-grade year. We want to teach them what leadership looks like.” 

Previously serving as an RTI specialist for the District, Banks expressed gratitude to Havenview Principal Darla Young-Berry for welcoming her to Havenview. Now, she has the opportunity to support students and families in her new role.

Michael O. Harris, president of Memphis Metropolitan Land Bank Authority (MMLBA) and vice president of 100 BMOM, has been an active member of the community since his daughter attended Whitehaven High School six years ago. “When they told us they needed more men in the building, we sat down with coaches, administrators, teachers and came up with a curriculum to fit Havenview’s needs,” Harris said.

Through his involvement, Harris developed a working relationship with Young-Berry. “Darla has always been doing such amazing work,” he said. “I love the fact that the kids know when they come here, they're in a safe space.”

During the club’s January 8 session, Nathan Ollie, president of 100 BMOM, introduced students to the program's expectations and future mentors. The session included an interactive icebreaker that allowed participants to get to know one another. Guided by the mantra, “What They See Is What They'll Be,” the organization is committed to ensuring students are surrounded by exceptional role models who inspire them to become successful and responsible citizens.

January is recognized as National Mentoring Month, a time to celebrate the power of guidance and positive influence. If you or someone you know is interested in mentorship or becoming a school adopter, reach out to MSCS’ Family and Community Engagement Department at scsface@scsk12.org.

If you have a story about a MSCS student, teacher, or school to highlight, please email us at communications@scsk12.org. Include the school name, story details, and an SCSK12.ORG email for follow-up.