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This goal is accomplished with the implementation of a multi-faceted program which:

• Defines manhood
• Explains the consequences of their actions
• Teaches boys that (1) choosing to delay or avoid sexual activity is a good decision; (2) rejecting alcohol usage helps eliminate abusive or addictive behavior; (3) rejecting illegal drug use allows the brain and body to properly develop and helps eliminate criminal behavior; (4) restraining from violence is the real key to resolving conflict.
• Provides boys with positive adult male role models to support and encourage them in their goal of becoming men worthy of respect
• Develops positive peer support
• Promotes ongoing parental support, especially from fathers
• The curriculum includes the following units: Respect, Decision-making, Friendship, Relationships, Alcohol Abuse and Drug Abuse, Fitness and Nutrition, and AIDS and STDs

Several times a year, model speakers discuss their own lives and the important decisions they made when they were young. The program includes many extracurricular activities which strengthen the boys’ bond with their peers and reinforce the Best Men messages. Fitness activities teach physical discipline, decision-making skills, and promote a fun, learning environment. Cultural events provide opportunities that broaden students’ horizons.

How does a boy become the best he can be?

That is the challenge our boys face as they prepare for life. How can we help them become young men worthy of respect? Boys and girls are inherently different. The key to helping our boys through adolescence is to provide them with a better understanding of what it means to be a man.

Best Men defines the characteristics and attitudes of responsible men, and encourages men of integrity to become more involved in young boys’ lives.

An adolescent needs a positive adult male role model in his life to guide him in the process of becoming a man worth respect. This generation is in great need of positive messages and personal support. Together, we can offer students the time and guidance needed to make a lasting difference.

Challenging Boys To Become Men Worthy Of Respect

The Best Friends Curriculum Includes:

Group Discussion Girls discuss and receive guidance on the topics of friendship, love and dating, self-respect, decision-making, alcohol abuse, drug abuse, physical fitness and nutrition, AIDS and STDs. Group discussion sessions are conducted during the school day at least once a month.

Role Model Presentation At least twice a year distinguished women from the community meet with the girls to discuss their own lives and families and the important decisions they made when they were young.

Mentor Meetings Each Best Friends girl has a mentor, a member of her school faculty, who meets with her for 30 to 45 minutes each week. Girls select their own men-tors from a list of teachers who have agreed to participate.

Fitness and Nutrition Classes Best Friends girls participate in a weekly fitness/dance class.

Community Service Girls are required to participate in at least one community service project each year such as Race for the Cure, clothing drives to benefit the homeless, adopting a community day care center, and reading to children.

Stop the Silence, Prevent the Violence An on-site assembly or fully day seminar which educates students to prevent bullying, relationship violence, and substance abuse designed for elementary, middle school, and high school.

Cultural Enrichment Activities We provide opportunities for the girls to attend uplifting cultural events, including theater and dance performances, concerts, and exhibits.

Annual Family and School Recognition Ceremony At the end of the school year, the Best Friends girls, Diamond Girls, mentors, and parents are honored. The ceremony is held to showcase the Best Friends girls and Diamond Girls and their commitment to the Best Friends messages through music, dance, and public speaking. Girls are recognized by their family, school, community, and national leaders. College scholarships, awards, and prizes for outstanding essays are presented.