PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
Generation Xer’s and subsequent ones could be the start of a trend where the majority population may not outlive its parents. Today’s boys and young men of color are facing disparaging outcomes. Boys Coming of Age (BCOA) provides tactical self-development and manhood training for African-American adolescent males. Youths are exposed to a pragmatic Rites of Passage process that
is designed to aid them in successfully transitioning into adulthood. The program is predicated on serving the emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual needs of young men as a means of building adult competencies. BCOA is an effective outreach for black males between the ages of 12-24 years old. However, considerable efficacy can be yielded in elementary and middle-aged school boys, as the adolescence stage usually brings about feelings of fear, confusion, and awkwardness. Such emotions often leave teens vulnerable, insecure and in a state of self-alienation. BCOA addresses this crisis by placing focus on healthy, pro-social programming in the areas of:
• achieving skills for optimal living
• navigating through confusing adolescent issues
• establishing life-enhancing goals
• developing strategies for dealing w/conflict
• decreasing behaviors that diminish quality or longevity of life
