Building & Rebuilding Men: A Discussion on Factors That Help or Hinder Men and Boys Hosted by Pastor Bryan Hudson, D.Min. at New Covenant Church March 8, 2025 Overview Generated by OpenAI The forum aimed to explore the challenges and opportunities facing men and boys, fostering discussion on how to encourage growth, responsibility, and resilience. It featured distinguished panelists from various backgrounds, including educators, ministers, and reentry specialists. Key topics included education, conflict resolution, mentorship, workforce development, and the role of faith in rebuilding lives. Opening Remarks Dr. Bryan Hudson welcomed attendees in person and online, emphasizing the importance of empowering men and boys. He highlighted Proverbs 27:17, "As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend," and Proverbs 22:28, "Do not remove the ancient landmark which your fathers have set," illustrating the need for strong role models and guiding principles. Panelists & Contributors Minister Corey Jones (Educator & Mentor at KIPP Academy) Initiatives: Founded the PAC (Professionalism, Accountability, Character, and Conduct) program to mentor young men. Challenges: Many students face trauma, exposure to violence, and lack of positive male role models. Solutions: Teaching self-awareness, accountability, and discipline through social-emotional learning, free haircuts, and dress code initiatives (e.g., “Tie Tuesdays”). Jim Cotterill (President, Second Chance Indiana) Focus: Job training, mentoring, and transportation for men reentering society. Key Insights: 89% of those who return to prison are unemployed at the time of their rearrest. Employment significantly reduces recidivism rates. Importance of "A-B-C" Model: Any Job → Better Job → Career. Transportation Program: Provides rides for those starting jobs to ensure reliability. Dr. William Bumphus III (Mentor at Jesus House, Former Director at Wheeler Mission, Educator & Coach) Background: Former athlete and mentor who has studied recidivism and faith-based rehabilitation. Advice: Peer pressure can be both positive and negative. High expectations and accountability lead to success. Discipline and faith play key roles in life transformation. Pastor William Bumphus II (Founder, Jesus Inside Prison Ministry & Jesus House) Mission: Providing residential discipleship for men coming out of prison to help them reintegrate into society. Key Success Factors: Eliminating pressure by providing housing and stability upon release. Prioritizing spiritual growth and accountability over immediate employment. Five Priorities for Reentry Success: Get off parole/probation. Obtain a driver’s license. Secure full-time, well-paying employment. Acquire dependable transportation. Find safe, stable housing. Jonathan Hudson (Educator & Media Professional) Message: Encouraged young men to mentor their peers and take leadership in their own lives. Example: Shared an NBA clip where a veteran player corrected a younger teammate, illustrating the impact of peer-to-peer mentorship. Key Topics Discussed Education & Mentorship Exposure to positive role models is critical. Schools need higher expectations for students to encourage success. Field trips, career days, and entrepreneurship programs can expand interests beyond sports. Teaching accountability, discipline, and work ethic prepares young men for adulthood. Reentry & Employment Readiness Addressing trauma, addiction, and lack of role models is key to successful reintegration. Mentorship programs help returning citizens avoid pitfalls. Faith-based approaches provide a strong foundation for long-term change. Overcoming Conflict & Social Barriers Teaching young men how to manage conflict and take responsibility for their actions. Encouraging self-improvement rather than succumbing to peer pressure. Learning to pivot when faced with setbacks (e.g., injuries ending sports careers) Closing
