Together,
WE WILL ALL RISE
OUR STORY
Our work is the product of 25 years of experience in community-focused advocacy, and the 2019 convening of six young men of color asked to imagine the possibilities of a barrier and boundary-free world. Organized as an integrative, service-oriented clearinghouse, we are anchored in 3 main development pillars - higher education, economic empowerment and community engagement - designed to effect lasting and systemic change.
MISSION
We rise to create targeted initiatives that invest in the socio-emotional, educational, and economic needs of young men of color.
VISION
We Will All Rise when we amplify our voices and marshall our collective resources to educate, elevate, and empower men of color.
Our Impact
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
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Our Love Sustains Us.
We are fueled by our love. Without reservation or apology, we lead not only with our head, but with our hearts. We are not afraid to be vulnerable and connect with our common humanity that unites us and makes us whole. We will serve with empathy and compassion in our words and in our deeds.
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Our Voice Elevates Us.
We seek to elevate and amplify the voices of all people, especially the marginalized and forgotten; the poor and the disenfranchised; and the ignored and the oppressed. We see the power and brilliance inherent in us all. We will respect the perspectives and solutions that are birthed, heard, learned, and lived through our collective experience.
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Our Persistence Propels Us.
We prevail through our persistence, because failure is not an option. Our ancestors and elders did not relent, and neither will we. Our tests and trials are part of our testimony and propel us to keep on striving for excellence against all odds. We will continue to move forward with resolve and authority.
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Our Community Anchors Us.
We focus on the village because it is where we are loved and empowered, without conditions; where our dreams are encouraged and where our institutions (the church and the school; the recreational courts and the fields; and the community center and the neighborhood cookout) make us feel safe and protected. We will operate in integrity, transparency, and authenticity for the good of the house and the advancement of our people.
our pillars