Our program philosophy is simple: We are here to support the boys.

The Boy Power curriculum incorporates holistic, intergenerational, and asset-based mentoring practices to encourage community involvement, intensive self-reflection, positive critical thinking habits, and self- accountability amongst the young men it serves.

The curriculum covers a 32 week schedule designed to help teenage boys cope with typical problems and issues at home and school and bring awareness and intention to the important choices all boys face in their adolescent development.

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Each meeting begins with a check-in round. A mentor models the check-in by sharing his teenage experience on that week’s topic. One of the most important tenets of BTM is the mentor does not teach, lecture or tell boys what to do. He just tells his story and talks about the feelings he had when he was a teenager, the mistakes he made, the lessons he learned and the long-term consequences of his actions.

A FACILITATOR is a Boys to Men staff member who is primarily responsible for ensuring that every group meeting is a positive and safe environment for the boys and mentors. Facilitators are also mandated reporters and work directly with each school's administrative staff to make sure that we are positively supporting each boy's academic and behavioral journey as well. Facilitators are trained to keep group meetings on topic and provide feedback to mentors on ways to be most effective in group meetings. Facilitators also take attendance and consult with boy parents, grandparents, and guardians when necessary.

A MENTOR is a man from the San Diego community who expressed an interest in volunteering with Boys to Men and has gone through an extensive interview process which includes a background check, LIVESCAN, and ongoing mentor training. Mentors who attend our weekly groups often times skip their work lunch hour or take time off to participate. Mentors can be any man over the age of 18 but are typically 35 or older.

Our flagship in-school group mentoring program partners with schools across San Diego County to support at-risk boys, addressing educational challenges and reducing delinquency and gang involvement. With a diverse participant base, including boys from various socioeconomic backgrounds, our program targets those at risk of academic failure and dropout. Notably, 40% of participants are fatherless and over 95% receive free or reduced lunch. Our approach has garnered praise from school leaders for its positive impact on academic performance, attendance, and behavior, with participants showing a 27% GPA improvement and an 85% reduction in disciplinary incidents after one year. Evaluation methods include surveys, academic and behavioral data analysis, testimonials, and case studies in collaboration with local universities.

To extend our services to boys not enrolled in partner schools, we host biweekly evening meetings open to all San Diego boys. The Open Community Group mirrors our in-school sessions but often includes high schoolers and alumni, fostering discussions on mature topics. These meetings also serve as mentor training sessions, benefiting from the experience of seasoned attendees. All Journeymen, current and alumni, are welcome, fostering a connected Boys to Men community across life stages.

Our upcoming weekend retreat at our rustic Mt. Palomar property is a pivotal moment for boys to shape their future selves. Led by experienced facilitators and staff, the 3-day training offers a 2:1 ratio of men to boys. Through carefully crafted activities, boys confront adolescent challenges, learn about integrity, bond with peers, and explore mission and service. This intensive experience fosters deep connections between boys and mentors, surpassing the impact of six months of typical mentoring. It's a life-changing event they'll never forget.