Amit Banerjee

I have the best role models! Last week, this group of GentleMen attended the Break The Cycle Breakfast and committed to join the fight against domestic violence by serving as strong examples of positive masculinity, enforcing social consequences against peers who are abusers, and being a resource to anyone in need of help.

The are an auxiliary group that supports the mission and work of as volunteers and advocates. If you know a GentleMan who’s looking to get involved, get them to become a HeRO today!

I look up to all my friends because I know the friends I keep dedicate themselves to serving a variety of causes. And when it comes to this cause, we are wholeheartedly united to stop abuse everywhere.

Thanks to Nick Marino Jr., Patrick Tickner, Giorgio Cuellar, Kevin Hess, Nick Rodriguez, Juan Muñoz, Geoff Green, and Adam Melson for joining me.

I had the privilege to serve as at and got a first-hand look at all of the amazing things happening at this campus under the leadership of (actual) Principal TJ Florie!

Starting the day off, I was welcomed by the Hillcrest Panther drum line, JROTC, cheer squad, and select campus leaders. I got to participate in Intake where we made sure students were making to 1st period on time.

With classes in session, we could tour the campus and visit with students, teachers, custodians, resource officers, coaches, and even pet rabbits!

I got to hang out with students during lunch where they got to ask me all sorts of questions about my personal and professional life. And finally, I ended my tenure discussing campus life with a panel of students who shared what makes Hillcrest special to them.

While they all had their own unique experience, they shared a common theme: Hillcrest is a place where students feel empowered to be themselves due to the supportive climate reinforced by the faculty & staff; and at the same time, students feel held to a high standard of success that encourages their growth in academics, in student orgs/clubs, and in their social life.

It’s clear that Hillcrest is a place where youth can thrive and grow into star community leaders — just check out their alumni like , Doug Smellage, who still rep their Panther Pride!

I’m so grateful to Principal Florie and his team for being an exceptional host and friend, and thanks to the , , and for investing in the program that shines a light on how incredible our local public schools can be. I can’t wait to do this again next year!

Video Credit: Hillcrest High School students and administrators

It is always a privilege to attend the Annual Luncheon as it’s an affirmation of their critical work to combat domestic violence and support the survivors of abuse.

Looking around the room of 1,500 people all committed to one cause, I was reminded of the power of local philanthropy. From the (men’s auxiliary) whom I sat with, to the countless corporations and civic organizations, the mission of Genesis truly unties this city.

For 40 years, Genesis has provided a safe space for women and children leaving abusive homes, and their client service model has become a national model for other similar organizations to emulate.

There’s more work to be done and there’s plenty of ways to engage, so join an auxiliary group, make a donation, volunteer with your family, and spread the word. Check out their instagram page and website to learn more