Future Men of Distinction (FMOD)

Program Description

The Future Men of Distinction (FMOD) creates an environment for a select group of young men to empower themselves with knowledge necessary to be both pillars and positive contributors to society. Our mission is to develop a network of young men that embrace a level of brotherhood that bonds them for life.

The three principles of FMOD – Brotherhood, Knowledge and Service – are present in everything we do.

The path to empowerment is gained through self-mastery. FMOD utilizes education, entrepreneurship, economics and environment to establish this, and position it as an underlying element of the other principles. A critical component of this empowerment is brotherhood with the creation and respect for relationships among young men. We teach that without relationships there is no one to build, exchange, or learn with. Therefore, social, financial or political opportunities will not arise. The way we handle our relationships directly determines our opportunities.

Education is an important aspect of FMOD, as it encompasses critical thinking, skills acquisition as well as addressing and impacting community issues, and increasing the knowledge base and awareness of others on critical issues.
FMOD houses some of the brightest minds in the state. Students from seventh grade to high school seniors come together to share and learn from each other. FMOD hosts forums, community engagement initiatives and informational sessions that spotlight various concerns.
With an emphasis on youth development community service and self-mastery, education is at the heart of FMOD’s work.

Much discussion and time is given to the impact of academic knowledge on one’s life. We meld that dialogue with discussions about life experiences to give the young men perspective that is applicable to their daily lives. During our meetings, each young man is asked to give an update on their social and academic experiences. We then perform a root-cause analysis on any issues and talked about them in an open forum. Every conversation is not pleasant, but productive. Through FMOD, young men are held to a high standard, and are accountable for their actions. The focus is on developing habits that directly their scholastic achievement.

It is our job to teach young men to be aware of who they are and they are perceived in society. The world’s social climate shows us that young black men must be cognizant of themselves always because any situation may be about life or death.

2023 Program Overview

FMOD grants our mentees the opportunity to learn from and converse with mentors and community leaders, while teaching critical skills through bi-weekly sessions covering an array of topics.

Sessions take place at Rhodes Jordan Park, from 10:00am – 1:30pm

This year’s theme is “Foundations for success”. Over the course of the year, FMOD mentees will cover the following topics:

• Health and wellness
• Financial Literacy
• Leadership
• Public speaking
• Education
• “Drive”

2023 Program Schedule