At a Glance | 2023 Statistics

L.I.T.E. Manhood

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

The LITE Manhood Program is a culturally sensitive youth development initiative primarily targeting individuals between the ages of 12 and 24.

A vital component of this program involves the active involvement of the Community Resource Coordinator staff of LITE within New Hanover County schools. They 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.

The L.I.T.E. Manhood Program originated as a structured enrichment program located at LINC, Inc., designed for African American males, ages 16-21, to reduce barriers in education and/or employment. The program continues to work at enabling youth to remain enrolled in school and avoid direct involvement with the juvenile justice system. L.I.T.E. Manhood Program serves an average of 35 youth per year.

The curriculum emphasizes:

  • Intensive case management

  • Rights of passage

  • Tutoring

  • Educational and cultural field trips

  • Weekly “reality” workshops

  • Mentoring

  • Spiritual awareness

Students 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 the LITE Manhood Program, LINC, Inc. is working to “break the cycle of crime.”

Thinking + Feeling = Character/Behavior/Problem

LITE Manhood Program Objectives for Youth 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

Learn more about the L.I.T.E. Manhood Program, and find referral forms online.

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Where?

 

L.I.T.E. Manhood Program

801 Princess Street, Suite 103

Wilmington, North Carolina  28401

Phone (910) 332-1148

Fax (910) 332-1190

Printable: LITE Manhood Flyer