Nyzier started at Campus International in the eighth grade and was immediately pulled into the group by Mr. Hicks. He was instrumental in helping Nyzier make the transition to the Campus International family, including attending high school in 9th grade. He had many positive experiences with the program and was introduced to things he never thought about trying to include playing golf.

YMG gave Nyzier a safe place to communicate and I watched in awe as his confidence was built up each time he attended a session. Although Nyzier has become engrossed with an internship opportunity, the YMG family has not forgotten about Nyzier. As Nyzier completes his last year of high school, I am hopeful that he can attend more of the activities that will help prepare him for his independence as he seeks a college home next year. The YMG group continues to impact many young men who otherwise may turn to the wrong influences in their communities.

I am very grateful that Nyzier had this opportunity, and I would highly recommend participation in this group!

Lilan T.

Young Men Growing has been one of the most positive experiences for my son. From the moment Anthony became a member during middle school, we felt this program would impact him. Mr. Hicks and Mr. Mathis welcomed our son and us as family. The YMG family stood for what we believe are important pillars in our son's life. YMG’s commitment to fostering leadership, personal development, and community engagement has significantly impacted our son, Anthony. 

Through their carefully designed programs and mentorship opportunities, Anthony gained invaluable skills that have shaped his personal growth. The Black Men’s Summit held at Tri-C, learning about financial literacy, and promoting character, as a young black man has boosted his confidence, enabling him to take on new challenges through middle and high school and presently college. The mentorship of Mr. Hicks and Mr. Mathis has been particularly impactful; they provided guidance and encouragement that have been instrumental in helping him set and achieve his goals. Anthony's dream was to play collegiate basketball and with the support over the years from Mr. Hick and Mathis, he met this goal. They both continue to want to see Anthony become successful in all aspects of his life. I believe YMG will continue to grow young men to be the best version of themselves.  

The community aspect of the organization cannot be overstated. The camaraderie and support from fellow members have created a network of like-minded individuals who motivate and inspire each other. Watching our son foster friendships with other YMG members as well as his mentors for the last six years has been gratifying. 

Young Men Growing has helped Anthony grow and provided him a platform to contribute meaningfully to his community. I am profoundly grateful for the opportunities it has provided and the positive impact it continues to have on his life.

Mr. & Mrs. Bruce

YMG has been a blessing to my son and I. These great men have taught my son invaluable lessons in life. They use a variety of relevant techniques to keep the young mens' interest from field trips to zoom meetings. They work one on one with them and stay in touch with them throughout the years. This program turned the trajectory of my son's life around for the better. They genuinely care for the young men and show great interest in them becoming successful young men that bring added value to the world.

Theressa M.

It has been a pleasure to witness the growth within the YMG organization over the last year alone. The level of focus and commitment the kids have brought each and every session shows the ascension in their maturity. They have been patient, allowing themselves to go through the maturation process leading to better decisions being made and improved attitudes.

Ishmieal K.

As a parent & community member, I've seen firsthand the incredible impact that Young Men Growing (YMG) has had on the lives of black boys. YMG has provided a safe and nurturing environment for my son to grow into a responsible, confident young man. 

My son has been involved with YMG for several years now, and the changes I've witnessed in him are profound. He's developed a strong sense of responsibility, learned the value of teamwork, and cultivated leadership skills that will serve him well throughout his life. More importantly, he's surrounded by mentors and peers who encourage him to be his best self, offering guidance and support at every turn. 

YMG does more than just keep boys engaged in positive activities—they build character, instill respect for others, and teach essential life skills that aren't always covered in the classroom. A perfect example of this is their series on Financial Literacy and community service initiatives. 

I'm incredibly grateful for the influence this organization has had on my son's life, and I wholeheartedly believe that every boy should have the opportunity to experience the same growth and development. YMG is investing in the future of our young men, and by extension, the future of our society.

Blair Wise

My son MJ has been a part of YMG for the 2021-2022 school year I must say that we are very thankful and grateful for the opportunity. My son doesn't have his biological father in the household so this program has given him the chance to be around boys and men who not only encourage him but also give him opportunities to look forward to. My child has had an improved attitude since becoming a part of this program and also has been more focused. My child and I are truly appreciative of this program and the hard work and dedication from YMG!

Schrell P.

Young Men Growing has helped me prosper as a young man. Over the course of the program I became much more patient, I made better decisions, I was much more laser focused and my attitude improved greatly. Forever grateful to the YMG family for mentoring me and treating me as one of their own.

Jeremy T.