Once a Man, Twice a Child

Acutely aware of the challenges facing our young, minority males as they attempt to attain their academic goals and mature into adulthood, Mr. Edwards felt a need to take action and make a positive difference in their lives. He conceived the idea of a “Saturday academy” that would focus on the academic achievement, social development, and community and citizenship of black males.

The academy is appropriately entitled, “Once a Man, Twice a Child,” as it reflects the life cycle initiating with childhood, progressing to manhood, and ending with childhood again. “Once a Man, Twice a Child” incorporates “Rites of Passage” lessons that assist young, minority males in successfully transitioning from the initial childhood phase to the secondary phase of manhood. Its mission is to create a safe, supportive environment that promotes the principles of consistent academic excellence as well as self-empowerment.

Providing a thorough understanding of the participant’s culture is central to the teachings of “Once a Man, Twice a Child” and is critical to the understanding of his own history and the importance of the African, African-American and Latino diaspora. “Once a Man, Twice a Child” recognizes the importance of visual cultural exposure, practical hands-on team building activities, discussion groups, and positive parental participation activities. A variety of vehicles are utilized to accelerate the learning process.

The curriculum of “Once a Man, Twice a Child” is centered around the work of Jawanza Kunjufu, a world-renowned expert on the development of minority males, and William Jenkins, a nationally renowned educator and author. In addition to their concepts, other strategies and methodologies are used to teach the social understanding of environmental influences on behavior, healthy choices, expression of emotion, etiquette, respect, leadership, nutrition, hygiene, and community service. Spiritual development is enhanced by instructing participants on the importance of prayer and meditation.