Chionesu Bakari March 2016 Newsletter by Chionesu Bakari

Chionesu Bakari Program For Young Men “Guiding Light of Noble Promise”

March 2016 vol.3 issue 04

Celebrating 10 Years

INSIDE THIS ISSUE DIRECTOR’S WELCOME

CB YOUNG MAN, IN ALL THINGS... BROTHERHOOD

CB FAMILY HIGHLIGHT

CB STAFF INSIGHT -SUSAN T. RODRIGUEZ

HOW YOU CAN HELP

ALUMNI CORNER 7

Flip Over to View our 10th Anniversary Calendar of Events!

10TH ANNIVERSARY EVENTS

Namaste, Excitement is building as we prepare for the 10th Anniversary Gala and Rites of Passage Awards Ceremony on June 10th, where I will be honored along with the Rites of Passage Young Men. We have several powerful and nationally known guest speakers planned, along with invited local and CB Founder Horace L. Moore with our youngest group; 4th national community leaders and politicians. We are graders in CS21, Bed Stuy Brooklyn looking forward to what is in the making to be an inspiring evening showcasing the journey of Chionesu Bakari thus far, along with our vision for the future. The Gala Committee has some surprises up their sleeve, and I look forward to seeing you all at our premier event to witness how this magnificent evening will unfold. I would like to extend my sincerest gratitude to the NYPD Guardian’s Association along with their president Yuseff Hamm for honoring me with their Community Service Leadership Award this month. Their Gala Award event was a wonderful experience for me and a fantastic opportunity to provide exposure to Chionesu Bakari. I am grateful to those parents who continue to make the sacrifice to come out to support me. On March 20th, I will be speaking at the all men’s Activate Conference in Brooklyn. This is an awesome opportunity to share my experiences, connect with other leaders and further broaden CB’s brand recognition. The conference theme is about empowering men in all aspects of Fatherhood, Mentorship, Relationships, Money and Education. I will also moderate a panel discussion on Mentorship, Family and Relationships which includes Cheyenne Bostock, Life Coach; Tray Kearney, Motivational Speaker; Dr. Oliver T. Reid, Minister and Author; and Rodney Gray, Minister and Executive, Life Coach. Our Inaugural Mother/Son Dance will take place on March 25 at the Brooklyn Borough Presidents’ Office. Coordinated by CB Parent Lakisha Adams, this year’s dance is a time for fellowship, dancing and an all around good time with our families. The fun is scheduled to continue on April 10th at our "Rock Roll Bounce" Skate Party. I encourage CB Families, Friends and Supporters to get your bell bottoms, afros, paisley and plaid ready; come out and get your skate on! Then, on April 15 - 17 we will host our Annual Parent Retreat in Stamford CT. This year’s retreat also includes our sons. The Parent/Son Retreat will culminate our Parent Institute’s focus on Inter-generational Communication, and promote deeper discussion between our sons and parents/guardians. We have an impressive line of guests speakers for the retreat, including, David Miller, Dare to Be King; Dr. Janet Stevenson, Clinical Social Worker; and Rev. Dr. Alfonso Wyatt, Strategic Destiny. Last but not least, I’d like to commend our 12 and under young men for doing a wonderful job Gatekeeping at St. Paul Community Baptist Church with the young woman of SPCBC on February 28th. The assignment of Gatekeeper, (as initial greeters and ushers) is a very important position and serves as a community service activity for the young men. March is Women’s Month, so I will leave you with a reminder to celebrate the wonderful women in your lives. As always, thank you for taking a moment to stay abreast of all that CB is doing with our young men and their families. In gratitude Horace L. Moore, Founder/Executive Director

Chionesu Bakari Program for Young Men

Letter from a Young Black Man What does CB mean to a Young Black Man ? CB Alumnus Kennedy Hinds currently in his last year at Shaw University, NC, reflects on brotherhood, his CB mentors and lessons learned. Chionesu Bakari (CB) is a program that saved my life and exposed me to a life like no other. Since joining the program in 2007, I have become part of a life-long family and developed into a college graduate under the mentorship of Mr. Moore, Mr. Young, Mr. Vaughn, and Mr. Nelson. They taught me the great responsibilities of being a great mentor and leader to young men that look up to me. Over the years I have encountered many different types of personalities, so I have learned how to carry myself as a young black man and push myself beyond limits I thought were impossible. CB is about respecting the brotherhood, therefore being around the other young men of CB allowed me to improve on my communication skills. Making new friends wasn't something easy for me because I preferred to stay to myself; however, as time went on I was able to see how CB was preparing me. Throughout my time in the program, we took many trips that I would say were incredible, phenomenal and life changing. We visited places like Canada, Chicago, Kennedy Hinds - CB Alumnus - ROP Cincinnati, Atlanta, Memphis, and many more. All of these places were great, however, Camp Ichthus in “The love and care that I have for children Philadelphia will always have a special is a result of the mentoring and connections place in my heart. Our time at Camp that I’ve built within the CB program. I Ichthus is what allowed us to form wish more people could have the chance to a brotherhood and a bond that can become part of a program like Chionesu never be broken. These trips showed us what life would be like if your Bakari so it can improve their mindparents are not around and you’re now the one to make decisions on set and allow them to see what other your own. opportunities they can have. I live and breathe by what CB has instilled in me and One of the main goals of the Chionesu Bakari program is higher education because of that, I am who I am today. It is with an emphasis on attending now my turn to teach others the same that college, because they see opportunities for us as young CB has taught me.” black men that we could not see for ourselves. Over the years in CB, we were given the opportunity to tour multiple colleges with a focus on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). We were able to tour many HBCUs like Clark Atlanta, Morehouse, Tuskegee and many more. CB introduced me to a college program called “You Can Go To College” created by Sister Shirley Dye and Ms. Dorita Clarke. The “You Can Go To College” program allowed me to learn more about college as a whole but most importantly it helped me understand the importance of HBCU’s to the African American culture. With my focus being my passion for children and wanting to major in Social Work, I decided to attend Shaw University in Raleigh, North Carolina. The love and care that I have for children is a result of the mentoring and connections Kennedy Hinds (center), with CB Alums - Justin Allen, Ajani Parris, that I’ve built within the CB program. I wish more people could have the Ajan Brook and Moses Lewis chance to become part of a program like Chionesu Bakari so it can improve their mind-set and allow them to see what other opportunities they can have. I live and breathe by what 3 CB has instilled in me and because of that, I am who I am today. It is now my turn to teach others the same

that CB has taught me. One of my greatest achievements while being part of CB is contributing to and witnessing the growth of current CB young man, Najee Quick (little brother). Throughout the years in CB, Najee has always played a big part of my life because although we are not blood related, we could not be any closer. Najee spent a lot of time with me learning how to become a great leader to the young men around him. Everything that Najee and I have spent time reflecting on, he is now applying to his role as a current leader of the program. I am proud of Najee and the goals he has set for himself. I hope and pray that everyone sees the same in him as he saw within me. Being in the program has taught me so much about life especially while being a leader. CB has taught me how to conduct myself with people in a professional manner, understanding that we are here for each other and most importantly respecting those who came before us. After my father and step-mother passed away, CB played a huge role in my life because it showed me how much support I had from my mentors, brothers and the parents of the program. Without their love and support, I don’t think I would have gotten through it by myself. I was always aware

of the love we shared with one another in the program, however in that moment, the program showed me that the love was unconditional and limitless. To all of the parents, old and new, including those who are no longer part of the program, I thank you for being a part of my life and accepting me as one of your own. With the sacrifices all of you have made, you have shown how much you were invested in both the program and in me. Thank you because without all of you it, my goals wouldn’t have been possible. The CB parents have always motivated me to overcome any obstacles and to have a positive mind-set because my story can help influence someone else and allow them to overcome any obstacle they may be faced with. Family will always be there for you no matter what and I’m just thankful to have my CB Family in my life. I am thankful for the constant prayers and protection under the blood of Jesus Christ. Life does not always go as planned......however, when life presents a challenge for us, our Chionesu Bakari family and the training we received results in us becoming great young black men. Thank you, Kennedy Hinds, CB Alumnus

CB Family Highlight Charisse Smith and son, Jeremiah Charisse Smith and John Fleming are the parents of Jeremiah Smith Fleming, age 13, Satomi, age 23 and Adhama, age 26. As members of St. Paul Community Baptist Church, they were introduced to Chionesu Bakari, and after witnessing many of the positive results of the CB alumni growing into their manhood, deciding to have Jeremiah join the program 4 years ago was an easy decision. Jeremiah is in the 7th grade at Medgar Evers College Preparatory Academy. Some of his interests include software coding, robotics and video games. Those who are blessed to meet Jeremiah and make it into his inner circle of “trust” are in for a real treat. You are guaranteed to have some thought provoking conversations, receive an abundance of love and loyalty and be put to the challenge of engaging him in a way that stretches his mind and helps him grow. He is intelligent, quirky, fun loving and reserved at times. Within the program, Jeremiah is learning to think critically, weigh his options and be accountable for his actions, even when he makes a poor decision. When asked, Jeremiah says that "CB has helped me understand the importance of hygiene as a young man, I am 4 becoming more confident making decisions

and I love traveling and spending time with my CB brothers and mentors."

Jeremiah Smith and mom, Charisse Smith

As a parent, Charisse appreciates the wisdom and different perspectives of the parent workshops. CB has created a village of people that help support her son and family with sincerity and love and she is learning to accept God’s blessing just as He gives them to her. She also shares her time and talent as an editor for the CB newsletter. She offers her pleasant personality and warmth that makes people feel special in her presence. Charisse is learning to reserve a space in time for herself so she can be refreshed and better for her family. The SmithFleming’s family prayer is that God's will be fulfilled for CB, whether that is national growth or an individual space. In addition to her dedication to CB, Charisse is employed in the field of Business Development, Corporate Sales and Community Organizing, while John enjoys his career as a By Terrie Butler

CB Staff Insights THE CB STAFF INSIGHTS SERIES TAKES A DEEPER LOOK INTO THE ROLES OF CHIONESU BAKARI'S STAFF WHO LEAD & GUIDE THE PROGRAM AND YOUNG MEN By Charisse Smith

Susan T. Rodriguez is an expert communicator and has a knack for cultivating positive relationships. Compound this with her dedication, commitment and passion for Chionesu Bakari and the triple role she plays as the Director of Communications, Parent Liaison and mother to one of our CB Young Men, results in our knowing we are simply fortunate and blessed to have her, for she is truly an asset to this organization. Strategizing and collaboration are the name of her game and an integral component to each of her roles.

Susan. T. Rodriguez enjoys the honor from the CB YM she serves as she enters the CB 4th Annual Gala 2015

Her scope of responsibilities range immensely and she is tireless in her efforts to make sure all levels of internal and external communications are effective and productive. She oversees a team of 8 dedicated parent volunteers in the production of the CB Newsletter and Social Media. She is the liaison that connects the voices of CB’s parent body to CB’s staff, by coordinating workshops for the Parent Institute, building upon family retention and being the ear/voice that listens to and expresses CB parents’ interest and concerns.

CB’s brand for the purpose of growing the organization, and to further engage interaction between the parent body”. Rebuilding families through positive affirmations and the evaluation of how we discipline, encourage, engage and bolster our young men is also at the forefront of her mind.

Susan is married to proud CB Dad, Min. Dan Rodriguez and has an awesome son, Reggie who is 14 and in his fourth year of the program. She currently teaches Computer Science, coding and digital design to 6th-12th This year the focus of our graders in public and private schools. Parent Institute workshops is on She has over 20 years experience in communication with our sons; project management, leadership, web understanding how we communicate development and communications, utilizing approaches such as the 5 with 15 years leading projects at Love Languages for Teenagers (Gary General Electric globally. She is the D. Chapman) and facilitating speaker- Founder of bFuturedigital.net, a led workshops that engage parents to company that creates communication reflect on how challenges in their daily and social media strategy, web/mobile lives affect their interactions with their design and development for both sons and understand the potential organizations and individuals. Needless impact that has. We have also taken to say, I am not sure how this married a look at today's youth vs. the parents mom who works full time and runs her own to be aware of how disciplining own business finds the time to serve CB tactics that we underwent might not in so many ways, but considering her be best for our son's in today's society. GOD given talents, we are thankful and In the Communications role, she certain that she is yet another prayer links CB’s programs and impact to answered!  the outside world by managing the external communications, regardless of the channel (press, digital, print, social media and graphic design of all marketing materials). Additionally she manages enrollment and coordinates the external expansion of CB into Public Schools . When asked what her CB goals are for this year Susan responded, “My goals are to engage with like minded organizations, increase the visibility of

Susan T. Rodriguez, with some of the CB Moms at the Malik Black History Month Gala - Feb 201

10th Anniversary This year will mark Chionesu Bakari's 10-year Anniversary actively bridging the achievement and social gaps between young black males and society! Through mentoring, and so much more, this organization has positively impacted the lives of over 300 young men between the ages of 8 and 18. For over a decade, we have given back through our dedication to mentoring our youth, enriching our families and diminishing the stereotypes of young black men. Chionesu Bakari is not just a program, it's a lifestyle! We are asking for your support to continue giving back to this worthy organization. With your generosity, we will be able to sustain leadership development, counseling, conflict mediation/resolution, tutoring, arts and media exposure for the young men and families we serve. Your help also supports our Summer Program - which also further enhances the lives of young men through extensive college and cultural History tours across the United States.

Here’s how you can help! Chionesu Bakari 10 For 10 Campaign Ask 10 Friends or Family members to participate in giving a gift of $10 for 10 months in celebration of our 10th Anniversary. This can be achieved by signing up @ www.youngblackmanonline.org/cb10for10 and submitting a recurring giving gift of $10 dollars per month for 10 months or one time donation of $100 (per friend/family) Matching Gifts Many corporations participate in a matching gift program. Double your Gift! The majority of companies match donations at a 1:1 ratio – Just let us know and we will do all the work! Chionesu Bakari Program for Young Men

CB Annual Phonathon April will launch our 2nd Annual Phonathon – this year we are planning a week of GIVING! All are welcome to give. Please visit our website at www.youngblackmanonline.org for more information on the program. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact us at 347.708.2007 or email us at info@ youngblackmanonline.org. Thank you in advance for your donations and support as we continue to build this nation, one young man at a time. 

Anniversary

GALA June 10, 2016 10th Anniversary Gala & Rites of Passage Celebration Celebrating & Honoring The Visionary Leader Horace L. Moore Founder & Executive Director “Living Life On Purpose” More Information to follow www.youngblackmanonline.org/galacb10

Alumni Corner Welcome to the Alumni Corner! This section will catch up with CB Alumni, sharing "where they are now" and their CB reflections. If you are a CB Alumni Parent or Young Man, send in your updates to info@youngblackmanonline.org.

CB Alumnus: Byron Thurston Byron was one of the first 30 CB members who joined in the Summer of 2006. He went on to study Business at Dutchess Community College in Poughkeepsie, NY. He currently works as a Medical Transporter at Taconic Innovations Medical Transportation. Byron shared that "Chionesu Bakari helped me by instilling different values in my life and teaching me to be cognizant on how best to handle real life situations I come across, including things like an encounter with law enforcement and enrolling in college. Chionesu shaped me up to become the man I grow into daily, by helping me develop my decision making skills. They showed us that every action has a consequence whether good or bad. They built us up to ensure we do not make poor decisions that will alter our lives negatively. I want to thank them for being my mentors .CB played a major role in my life and now they are my family." Alumni Parent: Sheila White Sheila is happily married and living in Walden, NY. She retired after 20 from the NYC Police Department and is now the owner of All Yours Travel. Sheila is also an ordained minister of the gospel. Of the program, Sheila said "I believe Chionesu helped my son understand through its mentorship, college tours, workshops, teachings, brotherhood and structure that as a young black male, he matters, that there's more to life than he could ever imagine and he has full access to it as a young Black man! Getting this awareness from other positive Black men, has allowed him to walk confidently and take risks." She went on to say, "I believe Chionesu played a major part in the person my son is today. It equipped him with the necessary skills on how to live and cope in this world as a Black male. Something I as a woman and single parent raising him alone, would not have been able to do effectively. Chionesu truly embodies the concept of it takes a village to raise a child and I am forever grateful for this program."

CB Alumnus: Omari Johnson Omari was one of the first 30 young men to join Chionesu. He earned his Associate Degree in 2015 from Kingsborough Community College. He is currently a Sales Associate at Blink Fitness and is working towards being a Personal Trainer. Omari commented that "Chionesu was a positive experience for me and as the name translates was definitely a guiding light. As a young man CB gave me a safe space to be able to speak out on personal issues and things I went through. It also gave me a clear view on society as a young African American man. I received insight, views and wisdom from the older generation on many things." Alumni Parent: Helen Taylor Helen has been with the NYC MTA for over 25 years and is currently a Train Dispatcher. She said that "as a single parent CB was heaven sent in terms of receiving manly advice from men leaders in the church, who just wanted to do right by our young men. "This is something that she couldn't do alone. Chionesu Bakari consistently encourages the young men, exposes them to historical sites, and teaches them life skills.â&#x20AC;?

10th Anniversary 2016 Calendar of Events

Join us as we Celebrate 10 Years of Chionesu Bakari Transforming Young Men & Families! January 2016

March 25

January 29 Annual Bowl-A-Thon

CB 1st Annual Mother/Son Dance

January 31 St. Paul Community Baptist Church, Brooklyn Board of Elders Consecration & Celebration - Horace L. Moore & Keir Nelson -

April 2016 April 10 CB Family Skate Night CB Parent & Son Retreat (Date to be Announced*)

February 2016

May 2016

February 13 - 20 CB College & Cultural History Tour

CB Family Feud Game Night

(North Carolina & Atlanta, GA)

February 27 MALIK Fraternity Black History Gala www.malikgala2016.eventbrite.com

March 2016 March 4 Guardians Association's Gala Community Service Award Honoring CB Founder, Horace L. Moore www.bit.ly/hlmooreserviceaward

(Date to be Announced*)

June 2016 June 10 5th Annual Gala & Rites of Passage Celebration Honoring CB Founder, Horace L. Moore www.youngblackmanonline.org/ cb10gala2016 Visit our website for the latest info on all 10th anniversary events & Sign Up for our Mailing List!

June 12 Rites of Passage Ceremony

July 2016 July 1 CB Summer Program begins July 10 CB Founder's Day Celebration

August 2016 "CB Get on the Bus" Getaway (Date & location to be Announced*)

August 13 CB Summer Program ends

Visit Chionesu Bakari Online Learn More about our Program Support Young Men!

www.youngblackmanonline.org Follow us on @cbyoungmen Twitter Instagram @Chionesu Bakari Facebook

Credits

Executive Director Horace L. Moore Newsletter Team Susan T. D. Rodriguez Paulette Bailey Terri Butler LaTasha Green LaToya Kittrell Antoinette Miller Tosca Myers Charisse Smith Sharon Swain

Cover Picture: Trip to Wall Street & The Bull, NYC, Summer 2012

CHIONESU BAKARI, a Swahili phrase meaning “Guiding Light of Noble Promise,” is engaged in the ministry of saving and developing young black males by reclaiming, renaming, renewing and reconditioning their minds. We strive to motivate young black male children to think critically and prepare their minds and the minds of their respective parents/ guardians for the men they will grow to become.

This newsletter is published by: Chionesu Bakari Program for Young Men 859 Hendrix Street Brooklyn, New York 11207 Phone: 347-708-2008 info@youngblackmanonline.org www.youngblackmanonline.org Available online at www.youngblackmanonline.org/news.