Maintaining integrity is everyone’s responsibility and leading by example is the best way to communicate its significance. May’s Stepper of the Month is Jeff Berry, founder and president of Black Men of Tomorrow. Jeff has demonstrated honor and integrity as an individual and has showed unyielding support to MSBU from the time it was established. His history of personal achievement for the benefit of others started many years ago.
Jeff worked with the late Margaret Bedford for the first annual toy drive in it's infancy stage to benefit children who were less fortunate in the Milwaukee community. Jeff worked side by side with Margaret and after her passing, continued support of what is now the Margaret Bedford Nutcracker Toy Jam.
Speaking with Jeff gives weight to his commitment to individual responsibility. As he best stated, “the art of giving time is nothing more than philanthropy”. Oftentimes we think of philanthropic efforts to be monetary. However, the generosity and charity we extend with our time, is worth its weight in gold.
Jeff has added a treasure to the community through his organization Black Men of Tomorrow. BMOT teaches and aides young males in becoming men in areas of self-development, community relations and political responsibility. As Jeff explained, Keeping it real, some women who are raising young males as single parents, Often are unaware that during the dating process from time to time positive males role models are introduced and then removed from their son’s life. Its not about blame, but about preparing these young black men/boys for MAN hood. BMOT looks to bridge the gap that is left when a young male is without a positive man to provide direction.
Wherever men are needed, BMOT will be there. Examples of services are providing advice, listening to troubles, intervention where there is conflict. Also included are how to drive, how to fix a flat tire and many of the other skills traditionally learned from other men. Having these services available to young males will improve self-esteem, self-assurance and improve the community.
BMOT also serves the local and national community by providing election training. Our recent presidential election provided the hope and change the nation so eagerly longed for. BMOT seeks to continue this tide of change and renewed beginning by educating and encouraging young males to become part of the electoral process. In its 1 ½ years of existence Black Men of Tomorrow is setting new standards and expectations for those in our community.
Whether you spend your social time dancing, relaxing, or reciting poetry, it is our responsibility as individuals to ensure the continued success of the community we live, work, and play in. Everyday Jeff Berry is leading by example.
To say this is to believe this “Positive Black Men Doing Positive Things Equates to a Community of Future Leaders”
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