Family & parenting

Today, 69% of African American births are to unmarried women, compared to 25% for whites. 55% of African American children live with single parents compared to 23% of whites. Black households average income is reduced by 53% following a divorce, compared with 30% for white families.

A large part of black boys grow up in households with little or no male influence. They often lack proper perspective on their maleness and how to relate to women and society in general. They learn how to relate to girls and women in a romantic or sexual fashion by male friends close to their own age or experience, and from the entertainment industry.

In a study examining how family characteristics affect African American youth, researchers found that African American adolescent boys in households without a father are more at risk for developing low self-esteem compared with other African American adolescents. The study, published in the September 2000 issue of the American Psychological Association's (APA) Journal of Family Psychology, illustrates the apparently valuable role of the African American father in raising his children, particularly his boys.

M³ works with boys and their families to ensure they have a strong male influence in their adolescent years. Thinking through relationships, sexual development, education, societal pressures and pitfalls that befall young black men during their developing years, as well as presenting role models and mentoring is central to our work. Having role models who have performed academically or with a career is central to imparting vision. Also, exposing boys to different environments, like universities, sports facilities and corporate environments and persons, is crucial inspiration. We believe that much of what determines ambition, self-discipline and station in life is based on perspective. We work to impart a different perspective and make this perspective a part of their lives.

The male perspective is important to impart – absence of male influence has contributed to placing 1/3 of all our young men in the penal system. M³ provides an environment where boys have ample access to accomplished, caring and engaged black men. Men who can bolster the boys in their desire for success.

Assist us in our work – our boys need you!