empowering young men to be their authentic selves
So they can thrive at a second chance!
85% of the incarcerated youth are young men.
Although I wasn’t an incarcerated youth, I deeply understand the struggles young men face.
I know what it's like to be a teenager unable to talk to a friend about something that's bothering you.
I’ve experienced the confusion of trying to find your place in school and the pressure of seeking acceptance.
Young men today, especially those transitioning back to a school environment, continue to grapple with these challenges, often feeling they can't talk about them.
My experience and approach enable me to speak their language and help others do the same, fostering genuine connections and open conversations about mental health.
what is The Dude project | Second Chances?
The DUDE Project: A Pathway to Second Chances is a program designed specifically for adults who work with young males in correctional facilities. I aim to bridge the gap between these professionals and the youth by sharing how to address men's mental health in a way that resonates with young men, even in challenging environments.
The DUDE Project includes a signature keynote that provides insights and strategies on effectively connecting with male youth on vulnerable topics. Additionally, I offer DUDE take-home materials, which are filled with strategies and activities to use to connect better with these young men. A part of the materials I offer are ones that can be shared with the families of the youth, which will help families understand the unique struggles these young men face and equip them with the skills to support their son’s, nephew’s, or grandson’s mental health and reentry into society and school.
By speaking their language and addressing their specific needs, the DUDE Project empowers professionals to create a supportive environment that fosters open communication and positive mental health outcomes.
why The Dude project for incarcerate young men?
There are 2 barriers to reentry for these youth that I aim to break down with The DUDE Project | Second Chances:
- Stigma and Discrimination: Formerly incarcerated youth often face stigma and discrimination from peers and school staff, which can hinder their reintegration.
- Lack of Support Services: Many schools lack the necessary support services, such as counseling and academic tutoring, which are crucial for helping these youth succeed.
Here is what the dude project | second chances
provides to break down those barriers...
- Empowers Professionals: Equips adults with the tools and strategies to encourage young males in correctional facilities to openly discuss mental health and break the stigma.
- Empowers Professionals: Equips adults with the tools and strategies to encourage young males in correctional facilities to openly discuss mental health and break the stigma.
- Introduces Tailored Programs: Engaging activities and discussions designed specifically for professionals working with young males, addressing their unique needs and challenges.
- Improves Well-Being: Focuses on building resilience, self-esteem, and emotional intelligence among incarcerated youth, helping them transition successfully back into society and school.
- Provides Community Building: Fosters a supportive environment within correctional facilities where young men feel safe to express themselves and seek help.
- Includes Expert Guidance: Led by a knowledgeable facilitator with extensive experience in addressing male youth mental health issues, providing practical insights and effective approaches.
3 tips that i use to get male students engaged
...and you can use these too!
Core Principles for The DUDE Project | Second Chances
Empathy, Understanding, & Open Communication
- Develop a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by young males in correctional facilities.
- Foster an environment where empathy is practiced, allowing professionals to connect meaningfully with these youth.
- Encourage open discussions about mental health and emotional struggles.
- Create safe spaces where young males feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings without judgment.
Tailored Interventions
- Design programs and activities that are specifically tailored to the needs and interests of young males in correctional settings.
- Utilize engaging, relevant content that resonates with their experiences and perspectives.
Building Resilience
- Focus on developing resilience, helping young males to cope with and overcome adversities.
- Teach practical skills for managing stress, building self-esteem, and fostering emotional intelligence.
Supportive Relationships
- Promote the importance of supportive relationships between young males and the adults who work with them.
- Encourage open discussions about mental health and emotional struggles.
Second Chances and Reintegration
- Emphasize the concept of second chances, supporting the reintegration of young males into society and school.
- Provide resources and guidance for successful transitions, reducing recidivism and promoting long-term success.
I believe that every young man deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive, regardless of their mistakes. By providing support, resources, and a community that understands, we aim to break the cycle of stigma and empower these individuals to create brighter futures. Join us in making a difference—together, we can offer hope, resilience, and the chance for a new beginning.
