This project will support the Kool Boiz Foundation in offering their Promising Men Mentoring Program for boys in grades 6-8 as well as their Young Men’s Empowerment Conference Series for boys in grades 7-12.

The goal is to give young men an opportunity to hear about and reflect on “What’s Possible” through thought-provoking interactive discussions and workshops. This is accomplished through our annual in-person empowerment conference and our monthly virtual empowerment series. The annual conference is a full-day gathering bringing together boys and young men of color in grades 7 through 12 with mentors, speakers, and city leaders in order to learn more about leadership, scholarship, financial literacy, and a successful mindset. The monthly virtual empowerment series is held the fourth Saturday of each month and incorporates two speakers and small group breakout discussions.

These conferences encourage long-term success through education, leadership, life skills, and hard work. The goal is to address the challenges of boys and young men of color in Youngstown through a comprehensive, intergenerational approach that promotes successful change.

The Kool Boiz Foundation is a Black-led organization: over 50% of the board is Black and the executive director identifies as Black. The organization also serves the Black community.

Support for Black-led organizations and projects serving the Black community is especially critical right now. As a result of the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, there are many needs facing communities throughout the country and in Appalachian Ohio, with Black communities among the most impacted.