Mr. Smith wears many hats: he is an advocate, mortuary science student, Professional Photographer, DJ, real estate investor, and a business owner. Despite growing up without a father and facing significant challenges, he refused to let his circumstances define his future. Instead, he transformed adversity into fuel for success, building multiple ventures with passion, purpose, and perseverance.

During his talk, Michael spoke candidly about overcoming setbacks, staying focused on his goals, and never giving up. His heartfelt message deeply resonated with the Future Male Leaders, reminding them that with hard work, determination, and support, anything is possible. He emphasized the value of education, community, and mentorship – turning obstacles into opportunities and inspiring others to believe in their own potential. He left the young men in the program with his personal mantra: “The best is yet to come” – a powerful reminder that no matter your start, your future holds limitless promise.

The Future Male Leaders were motivated by his journey of turning setbacks into stepping stones, emphasizing the importance of education, community support, and staying true to their ambitions. His message was clear: success is within reach for those willing to work hard and stay committed.

The Building Better Men Program is proud to feature voices like Mr. Smith’s, and we invite successful professionals from the Detroit area to join us for the Fall 2025 Speaker Series. Your story could be the spark that motivates the next generation of leaders to help them see the potential within themselves.

Parents and community members interested in enrolling young men ages 8-18 in the Building Better Men Program are encouraged to inquire about participation. This program is dedicated to empowering youth, fostering leadership, and creating opportunities for growth. Together, we can shape bright futures—just like Michael Smith, who proves that with determination and support, young men can rise above challenges and achieve greatness.

The post Mr. Michael Smith – A Young Inspiration appeared first on Building Better Men.

This month, focus on one key question: “What new skills or knowledge do I want to pursue, and how will I dedicate time to grow?” This isn’t just about setting goals; it’s about understanding what truly matters to you and how you can invest your time wisely.

Start by recognizing the skills and strengths you already have. Maybe you’re good at communicating, solving problems, or staying disciplined. Use these as a foundation to explore new areas of learning. For example, if you’re confident in leadership, perhaps you want to learn about emotional intelligence or financial management. Your existing knowledge is a stepping stone, not a limit.

Ask yourself: 

What areas in my life do I feel drawn to improve?
How much time can I realistically dedicate each week to learning?
What resources — books, courses, mentors — can help me grow?
How will I track my progress and stay accountable?
How can I embed learning into my daily routine?
By reflecting on these questions, you create a clear plan that aligns with your values and ambitions. Remember, growth doesn’t happen overnight. It’s about small, consistent steps—listening to podcasts, reading, practicing new skills, and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone.

Making better choices as a young man starts with awareness. Recognize your strengths, identify what you want to learn, and commit to taking action. Every step forward, no matter how small, builds confidence and sets you on a path to becoming a man of integrity, purpose, and strength.

Start today. Reflect, plan, and make the choices that will shape your future for the better.

The post Self-Reflection for Growth: Making Better Choices as a Young Man appeared first on Building Better Men.

Over the course of the summer, participants will engage in three days of dynamic workshops each week, allowing them to explore new interests and develop essential life skills through hands-on learning experiences. With six innovative courses on offer, this summer program promises to be an enriching experience for young men aged 8-18.

Course Offerings Include:

Young Male Leadership Development Class
Participants will cultivate leadership skills, improve teamwork abilities, and build resilience through group discussions and mentorship activities.

Creative Writing Development Class
This course encourages self-expression and enhances writing skills through engaging prompts, peer feedback, and journaling exercises.

Golf
Young men will learn the fundamentals of golf, including etiquette and sportsmanship, while developing discipline through practice drills and course play.

Theatre Production
Students will gain confidence and creativity in this course, featuring acting exercises, script reading, and a final live performance showcasing their talents.

Public Speaking
Participants will develop effective communication skills and self-assurance through speech writing, presentations, and constructive feedback sessions.

Art Therapy
Using art as a medium for self-discovery, this course encourages emotional expression through guided projects and reflection sessions.

Program Schedule:
Workshops will take place in July and August with sessions designed to accommodate participants during the day.

Registration Information:
Parents are encouraged to sign up their young men for this transformative summer experience. Spaces are limited, so early registration is recommended. Visit our enrollment section and secure a spot in this exciting program.

For any questions or additional information, please contact us at 313-772-0110.

Join us this summer as we work to build a community of confident, capable, and creative young men. Together, we can help them grow into productive individuals poised for success!

About Building Better Men:
The Building Better Men program is committed to equipping young men with the skills and tools needed to thrive in life. Through a combination of leadership, artistic expression, and personal development, our program seeks to foster a new generation of confident, responsible leaders.

The post Building Better Men Program Launches Summer Skill-Building Workshops for Young Men appeared first on Building Better Men.

As the founder and executive director of ARISE Detroit!, a nonprofit coalition of over 400 organizations, Keith channeled his passion into community service after a distinguished 30-year career in journalism. The Building Better Men program was particularly close to his heart, reflecting his belief in mentorship and early intervention to guide young Black men toward positive futures.

Keith understood that investing in youth development was crucial to breaking cycles of violence and underachievement. Through Building Better Men, he helped create structures of support for boys who often lacked positive male role models. The program provided mentorship, educational guidance, and life skills training that emphasized personal responsibility, academic achievement, and community service.

His approach combined tough love with genuine care – the same qualities that made him a respected journalist and beloved community leader. Keith often shared wisdom from his own journey, having risen from humble beginnings to become the first Black assistant city editor at The Detroit News in 1982 and later advancing to senior positions including deputy managing editor.

Luther Keith’s impact on Building Better Men wasn’t just organizational – it was deeply personal. He regularly participated in mentorship sessions, using his life experience and storytelling gifts to connect with young participants. His background as both a journalist and blues musician (known by his stage name “Badman”) gave him a unique ability to relate to youth through different cultural touchpoints.

Through his leadership, Building Better Men secured vital funding, expanded its reach, and developed evidence-based approaches to youth development. The program became recognized as an effective intervention that demonstrably improved academic outcomes, reduced disciplinary issues, and increased college attendance rates among participants.

Perhaps most importantly, Keith ensured that Building Better Men embraced a holistic approach to manhood – one that celebrated strength alongside emotional intelligence, ambition alongside compassion. He rejected narrow definitions of masculinity in favor of developing young men who would be both successful individuals and community contributors.

As Detroit mourns the loss of this trailblazing journalist, musician, and community builder, the continued success of programs like Building Better Men represents his enduring legacy. The countless young men whose lives were transformed through his efforts stand as living memorials to Luther “Badman” Keith – a man who used every talent he possessed to build a better Detroit, one young man at a time.

The post In Memoriam: Luther “Badman” Keith’s Legacy and Impact on Building Better Men appeared first on Building Better Men.

Founded by Mr. Odis Bellinger, the Building Better Men program has been a cornerstone of youth development in Detroit, focusing on mentorship and positive growth for young Black men. This year’s ceremony took on special significance following the recent passing of Luther “Badman” Keith, a longtime supporter of the program whose legacy was honored during the event.

“Today we celebrate those who embody the spirit of service that makes our community strong,” Bellinger told the packed auditorium. “These heroes work tirelessly, often without recognition, to build a better Detroit for our young people.”

The ceremony highlighted achievements across various sectors including education, healthcare, business, arts, and community organizing. Each honoree received a customized award and the opportunity to network with other prestigious individuals about their community work.

Among the most moving moments of the afternoon was the presentation of the Inaugural Yvonne J. Shell Heart Award to Maria Adams-Lawton of the Tindal Activity Center in Detroit. Named in honor of Bellinger’s mother, the award recognizes exceptional compassion and dedication to service.

“My mother taught me that real change happens through consistent love and action,” Bellinger said during the presentation. “Maria exemplifies these qualities every day through her work at Tindal Activity Center, touching countless lives with the same heart my mother had.”

Adams-Lawton, visibly moved by the recognition, dedicated the award to the children and families she serves.

The event served as one of B2M’s annual fundraisers, with proceeds supporting mentorship programs, educational initiatives, and leadership development for young men throughout Detroit.

As the ceremony concluded, Bellinger announced expanded programming for the coming year, including new partnerships with metro-Detroit area schools and increased scholarship opportunities for program graduates. “The heroes we honor today show our young men what’s possible,” Bellinger said in his closing remarks.

The Building Better Men program continues to operate throughout metro-Detroit, providing structured mentorship and support to young men ages 8-18, with a focus on academic achievement, personal responsibility, and community leadership.

For more information about the Building Better Men program or to support their initiatives, community members are encouraged to explore our website or contact us directly.

The post Building Better Men Program Honors 58 Community Leaders at 2025 Black History Hero Awards appeared first on Building Better Men.