Rising Sun Mentorship Program is looking for Black male mentors for the launch of their mentorship program

BY PAUL JUNOR

LJ Legacy Impact Foundation is the brainchild of Natalee Johnson who is an educator, child, youth and family advocate, author, and founder of Passion 4 Dream (P4D) Inc.

The foundation was started in memory of her grandmother Natalee Johnson who played a vital role in her life and others in her work as a nurse.

According to the website, legacyimpactfoundation.org, she “Impacted the lives of her family and others in the community. As a nurse living in Jamaica, she gave her life to serving others and caring for her family. Through her dedication and unconditional love, she empowered and impacted those around her.”

The mission, vision, and core values of LJFI are inclusive and are reflective of the significance of Louise Johnson. It provides “Access to quality services, programs and resources.” In addition, “It continues to build stronger youth, individuals and families by providing holistic client-centered, strength-based and culturally responsive approaches.”

Since its inception, LJFI has been involved in programs that “Focuses on: civic engagement, advocacy, education, financial literacy and community.” In order to foster a spirit of belonging, connection and relationship LJFI is involved in community empowerment.

“We provide safe spaces for community youth and families. We empower and impact those in the African, Caribbean and Black communities within Canada. The foundation provides a positive change, and WE are establishing a legacy.”

One of the initiatives of LJFI is the Rising Sun’s Mentorship Program. It is targeted to Black boys and youths between ages 8 to 25 years old from the Black, African and Caribbean community. They are currently looking for Black male mentors. Mentorship will be offered virtually across Canada and there will be two orientation sessions before the start of the mentoring sessions.

According to the website, “Boys will be paired with a mentor that lives in the same community or province. Priority is given to boys and youth from single parent homes, boys and youth living in priority community areas, boys and youth who require academic support and may be in conflict with the law.” There will be five areas that will be the focus of the program which are:

1. School Based Preparation Exercises
2. Career and Entrepreneurial Preparatory Exercises
3. Development and Leadership
4. Connecting Activities
5. Life Skills

The website outlines some of the benefits to the mentee’s which includes: 

• Learn sustainable life skills
• Be empowered and motivated to pursue their goals
• Develop soft skills through a variety of programs and activities
• Participate in STEAM activities
• Connect with Black male role models from the African, Caribbean and Black community
• Develop an in-depth understanding of ownership and financial literacy
• Increase confidence and self-esteem
• Connect with community leaders and role models
• Engage in programs and activities related to Black history, culture and resilience

Any Black male who is interested in being a mentor in this innovative mentorship will need to obtain a criminal reference check before participation.