MBK Village

Our Network of Partners

MBK Columbus is committed to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for boys and young men of color (BYMOC) in our community. But we can’t do this work alone. It takes a village—a network of dedicated nonprofits, schools, businesses, and community leaders—working together to uplift and empower the next generation.

The MBK Village is a coalition of organizations that share our vision of equity, opportunity, and success for all boys and young men in Columbus. These partners provide mentorship, educational support, career pathways, and community-based programs that directly impact BYMOC.

Who’s in the MBK Village?

The MBK Village is made up of organizations that are committed to action. Our partners work in various spaces, including:

✅ Education & College Readiness – Supporting academic achievement and increasing college access.
✅ Mentorship & Leadership Development – Pairing young men with role models and leadership opportunities.
✅ Workforce Development & Entrepreneurship – Connecting youth to career pathways, training, and job opportunities.
✅ Violence Prevention & Mental Health Support – Creating safe spaces and providing emotional wellness resources.
✅ Community Engagement & Advocacy – Uplifting voices, fostering civic engagement, and promoting policies that support BYMOC.

 

Join the MBK Village

Are you an organization, business, or community leader committed ted to supporting boys and young men of color in Columbus? Join
the MBK Village and become part of a powerful network working to create pathways to success.

Why Join?

  • Access to MBK Columbus resources, funding opportunities, and collaborative events
  • Partner with a citywide network focused on improving outcomes for BYMOC
  • Receive recognition as a certified MBK Village Partner

How to Get Involved:

Together, we can build a stronger, more equitable Columbus where every young man has the opportunity to thrive, succeed, and lead.

Our Village Partners Include

National African American Male Wellness Agency Logo

African American Male Wellness
The Men of Standard Program is a one-year mentoring program delivered by the National African American Male Wellness Agency and serves students between the ages of 14-20 from The Academy for Urban Scholars. The program provides career exploration and mentorship to 50 African American Male Students as they prepare for either post-secondary education, employment, or enlistment.






Always With Us Charities Logo

Always with Us Charities
A.W.U. Charities supports youth development programs that aim to produce positive, contributing citizens.






Columbus Urban League Logo

Columbus Urban League
Offers a holistic array of enriching and transformative experiences to young men of color, pairing them with mentors and role models to help maximize their abilities. I am MBK gives them the skills, connections and supports that contribute to a healthy, productive life.





Heart of Job Logo



Heart of JOB
Developing individuals, empowering change, and investing in creativity. Focused on a particular problem and aims at helping participants reach specific goals, such as improving academic performance and preparing for post-secondary school, or career opportunities.

Image Character Etiquette Logo



ICE Mentors
Ice is dedicated to enhancing the quality of man, encouraging all men to live to the best of their potential. We use school programming, community development and positive male influences to usher young men into manhood. Our goal: “to steer, shape and mentor young men, equipping them with the tools needed to prosper today, tomorrow and for generations to follow. Ice brings leadership to the heart of every man.”