Men Who Care Germantown

What the organization has to say: “Catch them before the streets catch them.” We’re currently in four schools. We’re going to put extra effort into giving students what they need, so they won’t pick up a gun and don’t become a shooter in about four or five years. Our young people need to see and talk to more people who look like them.

What we found out:

Men Who Care creates opportunities for young people — specifically elementary and middle school students — through mentorship programs and summer camp. The Northwest Philadelphia initiative also awards scholarship funding. According to co-founder Joe Budd Jr., during the “real talks” Men Who Care facilitates at public schools, they discuss gun violence, and the importance of education and jobs. The group has coordinated programs with the city’s Office of Violence Prevention, and maintains a partnership with the School District of Philadelphia and local nonprofits. The organization hosts an annual summer camp and works with Philabundance to operate a weekly food pantry.