“A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.” ~Jackie Robinson

Bear Strong is a mentoring initiative that looks to leave a positive impression on participants of the Bear Strong organization. Mentors are uniquely positioned to help young people process experiences by providing a space to express their emotions, ask for help, and channel uncertain feelings into positive, constructive action. When it comes to youth, it takes a village. Bear Strong partners with parents, schools and communities to identify students that are in need of direction. This is a proactive approach to being a driving force to improve their lives.

We utilize numerous research and evidence based strategies to bring about behavioral change and help foster a child’s healthy physical, emotional, and social development, promote gun violence prevention, as well as prepare the youth to become leaders in their community and beyond.

In addition, understanding that individuals and groups whose psychological distress is often overlooked, we work in innovative ways to help make a positive culture shift. Childhood adversity is a major issue in public health and we are committed to remaining dedicated; integrating services and building systems that promote positive post-secondary and economic outcomes for young people while pursuing public-private partnerships that leverage outside resources to further promote positive outcomes for our youth.

Boys and young men of color, regardless of socio-economic background, are disproportionately at risk throughout the journey from their youngest years to college and career (the White House “Fact Sheet”, 2014). Paw Prints Mentoring Program is intentional about our actions and message. We work on cultivating hard and soft skills along with nurturing the mental health of our youth.