The Women’s Way “Women of Influence” Conference turned out to be a great opportunity to network with various amazing women focused on improving education and providing better economic opportunities for members of their communities. I was most moved by the enlightened men who chose to attend the conference. The first of these enlightened men was Mayor Michael Nutter, who relayed an inspiring message as part of his opening remarks, that set the tone for the entire conference.  While I take issue with several of his recent decisions (particularly the approval of the recent casino permit), I applaud his strong and unwavering commitment to fighting community crime and violence against women and children.

His challenge for men become engaged in finding solutions not only to violence throughout the city of Philadelphia but also to play a role the restoration of hope, dignity and civility within their communities was quite inspiring.  His message was a call to action for men, particullary as their presence is required at the table in order to win the war against violence – “The issue of violence, specifically as it relates to women is a MALE issue and a MALE problem.”  He went on to state, “Let me be clear, as a man, husband and father there is never any reason for a man to put his hands on a woman or child in any circumstance. It is not right or manly to engage in that kind of behavior.”

One of the most impressive and dynamic panelists was Edwin Desamour, Program Director of Today’s Boys Tomorrow’s Men P@ WOAR (Women Organizing Against Rape).  Today’s Boys Tomorrow’s Men is an example of a program that does so much yet remains invisible within a city where the more recent shooting is the model for the hottest news stories.  Nevertheless, this program is front and center in engaging boys and young men in taking an active part in their communities by building strong relationships with themselves and the world around them.  The primary focus of this program is mentoring and motivation through action for good.   “This is not Today’s Thug, Tomorrow’s Inmate!”

TBTM is a leadership program designed foster positive development and growth for today’s young males.

Module 1 focuses on attitudes and abilities necessary for positive self-awareness and personal development.

Module 2 focuses on skills and abilities needed to effectively plan for the future. Focus is also given to the development of relationships with peers, adults and employers.

Educating and empowering young women is an essential component to combating violence in our communities.  Young men are equally essential in achieving this goal. Panelists continually turned to the need to regain a sense of civility in the ways in which we engage with each other.  Mayor Nutter and Edwin both pointed out that violence of the street is often a direct reflection and reenactment of the violence many young men and women witness and experience in their homes. Providing sustainable alternatives and providing opportunity and investment in community are crucial in breaking this chain.

I participated in Philadelphia Futures for several years.  I have been unable to participate during my time at Villanova University.  However, now that I am done with school, I hope to once again volunteer my time as a mentor. I encourage you to check out the Philadelphia Futures mentoring program as well as these other great programs throughout the Philadelphia area:

AMACHI - Mentoring Children of Prisoners in Philadelphia

Public/Private Ventures

Urban Health Initiatives