Young Men of Excellence - YME  is an innovative year-round mentoring and leadership program developed and designed to matriculate boys ages 9 - 18, from young boys to great young men of excellence.

 
 
 
 

We teach our young men the importance and power of G.R.A.C.E

(Gratitude,  Respect, Accountability, Caring, and Excellence)

Our Program Philosophy

At Young Men of Excellence (YME), our philosophy is simple: We are here to support the boys.

Our community-based mentoring model serves boys ages 8–18 across elementary, middle, and high schools. We are committed to building safe spaces and consistent support for young men through school partnerships and community outreach.

Program Elements

Our comprehensive mentoring program includes:

Weekly Mentorship in Action

Each week, YME mentors show up at schools to offer boys something many are missing: a supportive, consistent community of positive male role models.

In these group sessions, boys experience:

  • A community of mentors who listen, encourage, and empower them

  • Positive role models who embody integrity, accountability, compassion, and respect

  • A safe space where they can speak their truth and take responsibility for their actions

  • A supportive environment where they feel heard and valued

  • The understanding that they are not alone—others share their struggles and challenges

What Happens in a YME Meeting?

Weekly meetings are focused on building leadership, confidence, and character and more. Sessions include peer mentoring, self-esteem exercises, and opportunities for young men to lead and support one another.

Meetings are led by YME lead mentors and supported by trained volunteers. Groups typically range from 12 to 18 boys, with an average mentor-to-student ratio of 1 mentor for every 8 boys, ensuring personalized support and attention.

Our Mission

The mission of Young Men of Excellence is to mentor, motivate, guide, and empower young men to achieve their goals, uplift each other, and build stronger communities. through G.R.A.C.E. (Gratitude, Respect, Accountability, Caring, Excellence) We believe young men of excellence must:

  • Take initiative and become the change they want to see

  • Advocate for justice and stand up for what's right

  • Understand the difference between right and wrong

  • Hold themselves accountable

  • Strive for success and lead by example

At YME, we don’t just mentor boys—we help them become young men of excellence.

Young Men of Excellence (YME)

In-School Mentoring Program – NYC

The in-school group mentoring program is the core of Young Men of Excellence (YME). Taking place weekly during the academic year, it provides consistent, meaningful mentorship for boys directly in their school environment. We work with schools across the five boroughs to support students who are at risk of academic failure, chronic absenteeism, suspension, gang involvement, or justice system contact.

YME is open to all boys, creating inclusive, diverse spaces for growth and support. Currently, 40% of participants are fatherless, and over 95% qualify for free or reduced lunch—highlighting the critical need for strong male role models. Our mentors, many of whom come from the same communities, are trained, relatable, and deeply committed to their students' success.

The results are powerful. After one year, participants show a 27% average GPA increase and an 85% drop in disciplinary incidents. Teachers and principals consistently report better behavior, and engagement. We measure our impact through academic and behavioral data, surveys, testimonials, and ongoing evaluation with local universities.


YME’s in-school mentoring is creating real change—building confident, responsible young men prepared to lead in their schools and communities.