We are not at RISK
We are at POTENTIAL
Supported by
The We Matter Now initiative curates its programming from a strengths-based approach, empowering “at-potential” boys and young men of color and equipping them with the necessary tools to close the gap in education, wellness, and financial achievement.
With multiyear financial support from Heart of West Michigan United Way, Dondreá Brown of Young Money Finances and Henry Sapp of Better Wiser Stronger have joined forces to serve as life builders through We Matter Now.
Better Wiser Stronger provides support to young men to build a life platform of respect, confidence, and strong relationships while reducing and removing barriers that have lessened their ability to have successful life outcomes We believe if you do things BETTER and make WISER decisions it will equal you being a STRONGER person. www.betterwsinc.com
Young Money Finances empowers youth and families to take ownership of their financial journey. We provide culturally responsive, fun, and interactive programming, workshops, and events focused on money management and so much more! www.ymfgr.org
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Each year we begin with the WMN conference to recruit, summer programming to engage, fall/winter events to retain students
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color as role models
youth’ often carries leadership that will enable boys and young men of color to create positive change in our community
Years Strong
a safe space for 60 Black and Brown young men to learn about the tools, skills, and resources needed to face challenges and identify opportunities in their communities.
Empowered students to develop a vision, use their voices and make healthier decisions
Connected students to Black and Brown leaders/members in the community
Created an environment for students to learn personal, social, and financial development.
The Golden Ticket Golden Ticket
Each year at the WMN conference students are randomly selected to receive a tailored suit and invited to fine dining at a 5-star restaurant. They participate in conversations around etiquette, leadership, and selfdevelopment.
By The Numbers Numbers Volunteers SINCE 2022 Volunteer Hours Male Volunteers of Color Conference Attendees 47 660 0 in 2022 in 2023 28 28 661% 1% WMN In Action 49503 49508 49506 49510 49507 49509 OCPIZ D E S WESUPPORT
25 25
Engagement and Retention
1100% 00%
Family Stability Financial Security
Photo taken during our Real Talks Podcast, 2023 WMN Conference
TTestimonials estimonials
“WOW, WOW, WOW!! Our son, who was recently released from detention, came home today from the conference with so much knowledge and positive things to say. He is excited to hang his new posters and can’t stop talking about all the things he heard and did Thank you to all who invested their time, resources, and finances into the future of our son and other young men in our community! What an astronomical impact you’ve all made for the future of our kids and our community!”
“We Matter Now has helped me meet new people, and become comfortable talking and sharing my emotions. I can’t wait for the next event!’
“One thing I like about this program is that everyone participates and shares in the group conversations. I like that everyone can be vulnerable and express how they feel without being talked about
- WMN Student
“I want to thank you and the guys in your program that are mentoring and helping my student. This program has made him more focused on his future. I want to keep him on the right track and would appreciate and be very thankful if your program continues to mentor him through this senior year.”
“I just want to say thank you. My son really enjoyed himself and said he cannot wait to attend more programs I was shocked at this excitement. He even won a Golden Ticket and looking forward to that. Appreciate you and your team for pouring into our boys!!!”
“With all the black males here it shows that they want to support us. We also have new friends and brothers. We are not alone.
- WMN Student
- WMN Parent
- WMN Student
- WMN Parent
- WMN Parent
Photo taken during our breathing exercise, 2023 WMN Conference
SSupporters upporters
To our incredible supporters and sponsors, your commitment is our driving force Your support fuels our mission, making a meaningful impact on countless young men of color in our community.
