Welcome to The Black Resilience and Advancement through Volunteering and Empowerment (B.R.A.V.E. or BRAVE) Experience! The B.R.A.V.E. Project™ is a nonprofit organization established and operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes, in accordance with Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
Purpose: The B.R.A.V.E. Project™ exists to confront and eliminate systemic barriers and inequities affecting youth by providing a comprehensive range of services, including community-based programs, mentorship opportunities, educational support, career development initiatives, and strategic advocacy efforts designed to empower and uplift future generations.
Mission: The B.R.A.V.E. Project™ transforms underserved and underprivileged communities by eradicating chronic health disparities, reducing dropout rates, and improving career readiness in youth, Pre-K-12th Grade, through health, reading/educational, and financial literacy.
The B.R.A.V.E. Project™ Logo Signify:
- Power and Strength: The lion represents strength, courage, and leadership, while the wings add an element of power and the ability to overcome obstacles with great force.
- Majesty and Royalty: Lions are associated with regality and nobility, and the addition of wings enhances their majestic presence, symbolizing a higher level of authority and divine connection.
- Transcendence and Spirituality: The combination of a lion and wings represents a bridge between the earthly and spiritual realms. It suggests the ability to rise above worldly limitations and connect with higher truths and spiritual growth.
- Protection and Guardianship: Lions are known for their protective nature, and the wings can amplify this trait, signifying a broader scope of guardianship and watchfulness.
- Freedom and Soaring: Lions with wings represent the freedom to explore and soar to new heights. It symbolizes liberation from constraints and the ability to transcend boundaries.
Background:
The origin story of The B.R.A.V.E. Project™ stems from personal tragedies that deeply impacted me. When my grandfather passed away from lung cancer in 1979, I realized the lack of accessible and affordable cancer treatment centers in our community. This loss propelled me to take action, and 37 years later, when my mother was diagnosed with lung cancer, her survival and triumph became a beacon of hope! These life-changing events motivated me to dedicate myself to ensuring quality care and quality of life, particularly for underserved communities.
Inspired by my personal experiences and the opportunity to serve on the American Cancer Society Board of Directors in Virginia, I recognized the pressing need to educate youth in blighted communities about the importance of the Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. The HPV vaccines play a crucial role in preventing HPV-16 and HPV-18 infections, which are responsible for most cervical cancers, pre-cancers, and various cancers affecting the anus, penis, vulva, vagina, and throat. This makes the vaccines an essential weapon in combating this destructive illness.
Starting with my own community in Petersburg, VA, I am driven to create a nonprofit organization that not only fosters educational initiatives and promotes preventive measures but also provides education on needed healthcare services, emphasizing the importance of seeing a primary provider at least annually. Additionally, we believe in the power of developing public speaking skills, empowering youth to effectively communicate their needs, concerns, and aspirations.
The B.R.A.V.E. Project™ acknowledges that access to basic hygiene essentials is crucial for overall well-being. Rooted in theory, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs tells us that the basic needs (i.e., physiological needs such as food, water, warmth, and rest) must be met FIRST. That is why we are committed to providing needed essentials to underprivileged and underserved youth such as soap, toothbrushes, dental floss, blankets, resources for food and water, and other physiological needs. In addition, we recognize the importance of supporting health, educational, and financial literacy endeavors to meet the other levels of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs.
Please see below how The B.R.A.V.E. Project™ Mission aligns with EVERY Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs level with the ultimate goal of each child achieving “Self-Actualization = Fulfillment:
Educational Topic | Maslow’s Phase | Justification |
BRAVE Healthy Heros Program (i.e., Vaccinations, Anti-bullying, Provision of School Supplies such as paper, notebooks, pens, pencils, protractors, compasses, rulers, bookbags, hand sanitizers) | Safety & Esteem Needs | Protects physical and emotional well-being and Promotes health, preparedness, and confidence while reducing insecurity and fostering self-respect |
BRAVE Books Program (i.e., Reading Literacy) | Esteem & Self-Actualization Needs | Builds confidence, competence, and supports achieving potential |
BRAVE Bucks Program (i.e., Financial Literacy – Banking Basics) | Safety Needs | Ensures economic security and informed decision-making |
BRAVE Circles (i.e., each of the core programs above BRAVE Healthy Heros, BRAVE Books, and BRAVE Bucks are conducted in groups aka BRAVE Circles – Peer Support Groups) | Love and Belonging Needs | Fosters friendships, social connection, group identity, and emotional support |
Through The B.R.A.V.E. Project™, we aim to bridge the gaps wholistically for the youth in underserved communities. The key services are below (1-10) and addresses the specific challenges faced by youth that our nonprofit will focus on as they navigate personal and social pressures:
- Education on Needed Healthcare Services: We provide education on essential healthcare services, with a specific emphasis on the importance of the HPV vaccine. This vaccine has the potential to prevent over 12 different types and strains of cancer, making it a vital tool in the fight against this devastating disease. By equipping young Black individuals with knowledge about preventive measures and the significance of healthcare services, we empower them to make informed decisions and take proactive steps to protect their health.
- Seeing Primary Provider at Least Annually: We emphasize the importance of regular healthcare check-ups and encourage young Black youth to see their primary providers at least once a year. By promoting annual visits, we ensure that they receive comprehensive healthcare assessments, early detection of potential health issues, and access to necessary preventive screenings. Through this emphasis on regular healthcare visits, we aim to improve health outcomes, enhance early intervention, and foster a proactive approach to well-being.
- Developing Public Speaking Skills: Our focus on developing public speaking skills for young Black youth is rooted in the recognition that effective communication is a vital tool for empowerment. By honing their public speaking abilities, we equip them with the confidence, articulation, and persuasive skills to express their thoughts, advocate for their needs, and navigate various social and professional settings. This skill set enables them to amplify their voices, engage in meaningful conversations, and inspire positive change within their communities.
- Decision-Making Skills: This service focuses on equipping Black youth with critical thinking skills, enabling them to analyze situations, weigh options, and make informed decisions. By enhancing their ability to think critically, we empower them to navigate complex choices effectively and consider the potential consequences of their actions.
- Resisting Bullying and Peer Pressure: Black youth, like any other demographic, can face bullying and peer pressure, which may negatively influence their choices. By providing strategies and tools to resist these negative influences, we empower them to stay true to their values, make choices aligned with their goals, and maintain their self-esteem and well-being.
- Knowledge Empowerment: Education and knowledge are powerful tools for empowerment. Our service ensures that Black youth have access to accurate and comprehensive information on various topics, such as healthy relationships, substance abuse prevention, academic choices, and personal development. By arming them with knowledge, we empower them to make well-informed decisions that positively impact their lives.
- Building Confidence: Through this service, we aim to build the confidence of Black youth in their decision-making abilities. We encourage them to trust their judgment, develop self-awareness, and build resilience in the face of external pressures. By instilling confidence, we empower them to make choices that align with their values and aspirations.
- College Preparation and Avoiding School Loan Debt: Our organization recognizes the importance of college preparation and aims to equip young individuals with the necessary tools and knowledge to pursue higher education. By offering guidance on college selection, application processes, and financial aid options, we empower students to make informed decisions and avoid excessive school loan debt. Our goal is to ensure that every student has equal access to educational opportunities and can embark on their academic journey with confidence and financial stability
- Summary for Preparing Resumes and Careers: We understand the significance of preparing for future careers and the role that resumes play in securing employment. Through our services, we provide valuable resources and support to help individuals develop well-crafted resumes that highlight their skills, experiences, and achievements. Additionally, we offer guidance on career exploration, interview skills, and professional development to enhance their chances of success. By equipping individuals with the necessary tools and knowledge, we aim to empower them to navigate the job market and embark on fulfilling career paths.
- Long-Term Impact: The ability to make good decisions and resist negative influences has a long-term impact on the lives of Black youth. It can lead to positive outcomes in education, career, relationships, and overall well-being. By providing this service, we contribute to their personal growth and help them navigate challenges they may encounter throughout their lives.
Through our comprehensive approach, The B.R.A.V.E. Project™ aims to empower and uplift young Black youth with critical thinking skills, knowledge, and confidence, enabling them to make good choices and succeed in life. We further support their well-being and educational journey by providing essential hygiene items and school supplies annually. By addressing these specific challenges and needs, we strive to promote their overall health, educational success, and long-term development. Together, we can make a lasting impact and create a brighter future for the young Black individuals in our communities.