WS Chronicle

For young men growing up without a father, Father’s Day isn’t always a pleasant celebration, but for some kids that hole is filled by special men who volunteer as mentors.

Just one day before Father’s Day, My Brother’s Second Chance (MBSC), a local non-profit organization, held a brunch on the campus of Winston-Salem State University to celebrate those who volunteer as mentors for young boys in the community.

MBSC was started by WSSU Hall of Fame football star Antonio Stevenson in 2010, with a vision to save lost youth by providing knowledge and life skills that will prepare them to become productive, successful adults.

Over the years, MBSC has conducted over 170 workshops and seminars, performed over 100 hours of mentor training sessions, and mentored over 500 youth. The organization also feeds families in need and takes children in the area on college visits. On some occasions, mentors have even attended PTA meetings.

Stevenson said he decided to start the nonprofit organization because he grew up without his father and understands how hard it can be, not having a male role model in the home. He said, “If it wasn’t  for my grandfather, uncle, mentors, and coaches growing up, I would not be the man I am today.

“When I needed someone to talk to, they were always right there. So many people had a direct impact on my life. I attribute all my success on and off the field to the mentors I had.”

A four-year letterman with the Rams, Stevenson earned a number of conference and national honors as a defensive lineman. Along with a number of All-CIAA Team Honors (1991-1994), in 1992 he was named a Black College Sports All-American. Today, Stevenson works as a case manager at Goodwill Industries. He also is a personal trainer at the Jerry Long YMCA and helps coach at Parkland High School athletes.

During the brunch held in the Donald J. Reaves Student Activity Center, Stevenson said, “You don’t have to be a old man to be a role model or an good influence. All it takes is a little effort.”

He then urged fathers and mentors to continue to give back.

“Today is a day we celebrate not only fathers, but good influences,” noted Stevenson. “I’m begging you fathers and mentors to continue to give back. Continue to get better every day at being a role model for these young men because they need our help.”

Following the powerful words from Stevenson, the fathers, mentors, young men and others in attendance joined hands and formed a giant circle. Before leading the group in prayer, a longtime friend of Stevenson’s, Reginald McCaskill, pledged to make a $100 donation to MBSC. Following his announcement, others pledged to make $100 donations to the organization as well.

“I believe in what Antonio is doing,” McCaskill said.

For more information on My Brother’s Second Chance visit www.mybrotherssecondchance.com.