Faced with staggering statistics that juxtapose higher education to prison rates, hopelessness to at-risk cases, and fatherless homes to young male youth being viewed as drones, Overbrook High School's leadership firmly believes in our young men and sought competent resources to aid them in their pursuit of academic, social, and communal development.
In earnest to address these needs, particularly in the 9th grade, a collaboration was spawned with Mr. Alexander Brown, Mr. Michael Brown, and myself. With the assistance of Mrs. Young (Principal), Mrs. Lewis (Assistant Principal), and Mrs. Edwards (Teacher), we attempted to create an environment whereby young men would begin to challenge their notions of school, community, and themselves in a manner that must usher in productivity while weeding out complacency and atrophy.
With a high degree of disrespect, indignation, and low academic achievement coupled with anxieties germane to freshman insecurities at hand, the Brothers For Action paved a way for future leadership and resiliency through innovative and relevant workshops filled with hope.
Even though we have much to learn and prove, the Brothers For Action will continue to meet weekly, engaged in intellectual conversations, and fulfill the tenets of our pledge.
Aware that many challenges await the Brothers For Action only fuels Philly Project P.R.I.D.E. Inc's conviction to press on and provide these brothers opportunity to feel success. We will enhance their capacity and ability to make positive pressure the peer pressure that will propel more Overbrook High School students to achieve higher personal and social standards within the school and our community.
"A man with purpose is an army"
Kenny Perry
