I Am East Orange, I Am Somebody Youth Mentoring Program

04/17/2026

Our mentees learned from Damani Bollow, graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology and Founder of Indigo Providence, as he guided them through embroidery and the importance of ownership.

This session was a reminder that even the simplest tools can spark powerful ideas. You can create, build, and own your future. 💭

03/14/2026

Today we recited the I Am Somebody poem written by Rev. Jesse Jackson! The very words that inspired the name of our organization. These words are more than a poem to us. They are a reminder that every person has value, purpose, and a voice that deserves to be heard. At I AM EAST ORANGE… I AM SOMEBODY, we continue to uplift our community and remind everyone of their worth.

02/14/2026

Ms. Shirley from Imani Baptist Church told our mentees a story that challenged perspective.

We learned about Jack, whose mother wanted to show him the vast contributions of Black people. She envisioned a universe in which Black people didn’t exist. With each interaction, Jack encounters different inventions he can’t use because Black people invented them. Throughout Jack’s day, we were constantly reminded that Black people invented the ironing board, the dustpan, the refrigerator, potato chips, and so much more! We are reminded of how important it is to correct the narrative about the influence of Black Americans and to highlight the many inventions they have contributed to society. Our history is rich. Our impact is undeniable.

Knowledge builds confidence. Truth builds pride, especially within pride. 🖤✊🏾

02/14/2026

Ms. Shirley from Imani Baptist Church told our mentees a story that challenged perspective.

We learned about Jack, whose mother wanted to show him the vast contributions of Black people. She envisioned a universe in which Black people didn’t exist. With each interaction, Jack encounters different inventions he can’t use because Black people invented them. Throughout Jack’s day, we were constantly reminded that Black people invented the ironing board, the dustpan, the refrigerator, potato chips, and so much more! We are reminded of how important it is to correct the narrative about the influence of Black Americans and to highlight the many inventions they have contributed to society. Our history is rich. Our impact is undeniable.

Knowledge builds confidence. Truth builds pride, especially within pride. 🖤✊🏾

02/14/2026

Knowledge is powerful! Today, we were empowered by Ms. Shirley from Imani Baptist Church, who delivered an inspiring presentation on Black inventors! Which left us informed, motivated, and proud. Our history is rich. Our contributions are groundbreaking. As well as spreading the love to one another on this lovely Valentine’s day’s! ❤️ Stay tune to see some videos from today’s presentation.✊🏾

11/26/2025

🧡 Our children are learning the importance of community service, patience, sincerity and fellowship ! 🧡Volunteering and helping the Community ! Thank you to for the opportunity! We share the common symbol of Helping Hands 🤍

11/11/2025

Foundation Faith, Community, & Fellowship!🧡 Our motto defines us as a Mentoring and Non-Profit Community Program ! Today the I Am East Orange, I Am Somebody 🍊 Youth Mentoring Program volunteered at the Calvary Baptist Church in East Orange, as a contribution the SNAP/ food crisis in our neighborhoods ! The Founder and Executive Director, along with a few of the children , spent their day off helping others 🧡 We were joined by members of the Newark Police Department and members of the congregation, Asst.Pastor Robin Greene-Webb

11/10/2025

On Saturdays we Mentor 🧡! Our “I Am East Orange, I Am Somebody Youth Mentoring Program” 🍊on this past Saturday! We’re a routing Mentoring Program ; we go over different lessons 📚each month, highlight the important Holidays 💛and Events; and have fun! And we never forget our Children’s Birthday !

05/28/2025

Our Director of Operations was the guest speaker at this years Bloomfield Memorial Day Parade ! Tiffany, pictured, is an Army National Guard Veteran of 10 years and a member of the Bloomfield VFW Post 711. Pictured with her is the Essex County Board of Commissioners President Carlos Pomares.

02/06/2024

Learn more about our program through the TAPinto East Orange article :

The “I Am East Orange, I Am Somebody” Youth Mentoring Program was founded by Minister Debora’ L. Stevens-Falcon; a lifetime member and former YOUTH CHAIR, in the National Council of Negro...

02/06/2024

Read about us in this TAPinto East Orange article :

Ms. Jatirah Diggs, East Orange School District Gym Teacher, Motivational Speaker, YouTube Rapper, and newly promoted East Orange Campus High School Jaguar Varsity Girls Basketball Assistant Head...