In 1993 I was introduced to a community youth organization by the name of, BOTSO. My friends and I used to meet with the group's advisers at the old 4th street YMCA in High Point, NC. As one can imagine like most community youth organizations it sounds as if it was established for the at risk youth in our area. It's a leadership program designed for young men. Mr. Hank Wall and the founding members of BOTSO recognized that the young men in our community needed more than just a gym. They understood that young men like myself that derived from stable environments could benefit as much as our peers that were less privileged. They had the for site to establish a social and educational extension of our schools and home lives. I remember our advisors from the past and present always treating every youth as if we were at risk. Self-improvement was always right now.
Fast forward to 2008, fifteen years later BOTSO is stronger than ever. Many of us in the class of 93' have moved on to do some pretty positive things and the classes the followed assumed the same position. BOTSO, has produced college graduates, professional athletes, fathers, husbands, community leaders and so much more.
J.J.'s definition of Philanthropy - giving of ones self, time and resources ="s BOTSO, Brothers Organized To Save Others!
Below are some photos that I grabbed from the past and present during my recent visit with Mr. Hank Wall Executive director of BOTSO. Please visit www.botso.org and find out more information on how you can help contribute to BOTSO's new Self-Improvement Center.
As always thanks for listening.
The Message.
The Core.
The Purpose.
The Outcome.
The Vehicle.
BOTOS's Next Great Mission... The Self-Improvement Center
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