L.I.T.E. Manhood Program

Contact Information | L.I.T.E. Manhood

Riahonn Rose, Community Resource Coordinator

(919) 581-2964 | rrose@lincnc.org

Download: L.I.T.E. Manhood flyer

What We Do

L.I.T.E. = LINC Initiative to Educate

The L.I.T.E. Manhood Program is a culturally sensitive development initiative primarily for African-American youth and young men.

L.I.T.E. Manhood originated as a structured enrichment program located at LINC, Inc., designed for young African American males, to reduce barriers in education and/or employment. The L.I.T.E. program has expanded the age range of its service population, while continuing to prioritize enabling youth to remain enrolled in school and avoid direct involvement with the juvenile justice system.

The curriculum emphasizes:

• Intensive case management

• Rights of passage

• Tutoring

• Educational and cultural field trips

• Weekly “reality” workshops

• Mentoring

• Spiritual awareness

Program participants experience a supportive group culture, learn appropriate leadership skills, acceptable school and community behavior, gain self-confidence and self-esteem, and learn appropriate etiquette for advancement within society.

Our goal is to encourage a change in thinking that in turn influences behavior. Ultimately, through L.I.T.E. Manhood, program staff are working to “break the cycle of crime.”

L.I.T.E. Manhood Objectives for Participants:

• Demonstrate improved behavior

• Increase academic success

• Improve graduation rates

• Reduce potential for future incarceration

• Increase the likelihood of enrollment in post-secondary education programs

• Demonstrate a reduction in the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases
• Achieve improved cultural awareness through the celebration of African American pioneers
• Avoid teen fatherhood

• Increase end-of-grade reading scores and receive higher SAT scores

• Enjoy increased parent/guardian involvement

A vital component of this program involves the active involvement of the Community Resource Coordinators (CRCs) of L.I.T.E. in New Hanover County schools. CRCs collaborate closely with students identified as Tier 3, necessitating intensive intervention despite prior supplemental instruction. Furthermore, they engage with students’ families to identify service gaps and provide support to address their needs. Employing a strengths-based approach, the program offers comprehensive life skills training, educational assistance, skills development, employment opportunities, and community involvement initiatives. Additionally, the CommUniversity segment of the program aims to empower participants through education centered on the experiences and needs of Black males, fostering intellectual, political, and social development.

Who Is Eligible for L.I.T.E. Manhood

• African-American youth and young men
• Residents of New Hanover County and Brunswick County
• Ages 13 to 40

How to Apply

Young men interested in participating in L.I.T.E. Manhood can apply by contacting program staff directly. They will be scheduled for an in person interview during which they will complete an application form.

Teachers, parents, law enforcement officers and court officials can also refer young men to the L.I.T.E. program using the LITE online referral form.

At a Glance | Fiscal Year ending June 30 2024

L.I.T.E. Manhood: in 2023, LINC hired Avery Muldrow, Community Health Worker, as program coordinator and mentor.