The W.A.N.T.E.D. Project

, and their communities to be loved and valued, purposed and contributing members of the world. They are Worthy, Accountable, Named, Thankful, Empowered and Determined! We know if more mentoring programs were available, this dream could be recognized. The WA.N.T.E.D. Project is a 7-week program for young men, ages 12-18, to learn coping strategies and for the danger they face daily, such as fellow youth violence, police targeting, poor decision-making and other unforeseen circumstances that can cause our young men harm. Dynamic speakers with backgrounds in social work, law enforcement, counseling, politics, and psychology will be invited to spend an hour per week with your youth to give them practical tools for avoiding incidences of violence. For example, when my son was attacked he was walking home from school and wearing headphones. Our young men must remember to stay alert even if they are blocks from home. An additional hour will be spent on self-esteem building, clarifying individual identities, coaching for goal clarification and individual life purposes, staying focused and inspired to complete their goals, and expressing thankfulness through giving back to the community. The program will culminate with an “I AM WA.N.T.E.D.” celebration to which all of the speakers and parents will be invited to celebrate with our participants. The follow-up will be the offering of monthly support sessions for all graduates of the W.A.N.T.E.D. Project.