Welcome to The Black Bear Project
My People Community Services proudly announces The Black Bear Project. This year's event, themed Honoring the Voices of Mothers Raising Black and Brown Sons, highlights our community's critical need for support and services. The Black Bear Project, art showcase and mini-documentary, will debut on National Son’s Day, Saturday, September 28, 2024, from 4-8 PM in Davidson Hall at Central Connecticut State University. We ask for support from corporate and community sponsors.
About the Black Bear Project
The Black Bear Project is a special initiative spearheaded by our Director of Operations, Dr. Dayeshell P. Muhammad, to celebrate and highlight stories of Black and Brown men and boys within our community. The project is named after the resilient black bear, a symbol of strength and adaptation.
Black bears, native to Connecticut, face challenges similar to those of Black and Brown families--navigating changing environments and increased human interactions. This powerful analogy reflects the unwavering courage and dedication of Black mothers, who like black bear mothers, fiercely protect and nurture their sons amidst societal challenges.
Inspired by the 180 Seconds of Freedom series, The Black Bear Project centers on the voices of mothers within discussions about their sons' well-being. Often, conversations about Black and Brown men overlook the maternal perspective, shifting focus away from their unique challenges faced by these sons. This project aims to delicately integrate the voices of mothers into this dialogue, recognizing their pivotal role as primary caregivers--especially in a context where 64% of Black children and 31% of Hispanic children are raised in single mother households.
Black bears, native to Connecticut, face challenges similar to those of Black and Brown families--navigating changing environments and increased human interactions. This powerful analogy reflects the unwavering courage and dedication of Black mothers, who like black bear mothers, fiercely protect and nurture their sons amidst societal challenges.
Inspired by the 180 Seconds of Freedom series, The Black Bear Project centers on the voices of mothers within discussions about their sons' well-being. Often, conversations about Black and Brown men overlook the maternal perspective, shifting focus away from their unique challenges faced by these sons. This project aims to delicately integrate the voices of mothers into this dialogue, recognizing their pivotal role as primary caregivers--especially in a context where 64% of Black children and 31% of Hispanic children are raised in single mother households.
Project Focus
The Black Bear Project is an art exhibit dedicated to honoring the voices of mothers of Black and Brown sons capturing the true essence and spirit of our community through compelling visual storytelling. Over 25 mothers and 45 sons participated in this initiative, contributing their stories.
This project helps facilitate meaningful conversations about the mental, physical, and emotional wellness of Black and Brown males. We aim to provide a balanced, inclusive perspective that elevates these essential voices while fostering a deeper understanding and connection within our community.
Explore The Black Bear Project and join us in honoring the incredible stories that shape our world.
This project helps facilitate meaningful conversations about the mental, physical, and emotional wellness of Black and Brown males. We aim to provide a balanced, inclusive perspective that elevates these essential voices while fostering a deeper understanding and connection within our community.
Explore The Black Bear Project and join us in honoring the incredible stories that shape our world.
Who is My People?
At My People, we are committed to creating safe, supportive spaces for Black and Brown men and boys. My People is a vibrant and dynamic organization, seamlessly blending the expertise of My People Community Services with My People Clinical Services. We are a committed to the support and empowerment of communities of color, which is evident across our diverse program offerings. Our workforce reflects this commitment, with 80% male employees and 98% people of color.
Love Bears
Introducing Love Bears by My People Community Services (MPCS), a dedicated initiative to support the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of communities of color. Each bear purchased symbolizes strength, protection, and resilience, aligning with our mission to Support, Empower, and Rebuild.
How To Participate
Purchase a Bear: Choose from three sizes, each supporting different aspects of our programs:
- Support Bear (6 inches) - For $40, this bear funds 30 minutes of wellness support.
- Empower Bear (9 inches) - For $60, this bear funds 45 minutes of wellness support.
- Rebuild Bear (14 inches) - For $100, this bear funds 75 minutes of wellness support.
- Love Bear Package - For $240, receive the Support Bear, Empower Bear, Rebuild Bear, T-shirt, Hoodie, & Jar of Honey to fund 150 minutes of wellness support.
By participating, you contribute to a range of impactful programs:
Additionally, 5% of all proceeds from the Love Bears campaign will go to the CT Coalition to Protect Bears and 5% will support participating artists. Your support not only enhances the well-being of black and brown boys and their families but also strengthens our communities. Thank you for making a real difference!
Help us reach our $10,000 goal and transform lives—one bear at a time.
- The Manhood Tree: Empowering men and boys through mentorship.
- HoneyDo: Offering wellness support and practical assistance.
- 5th Down: Aiding athletes in transitioning to life after sports.
- Life After High School: Guiding youth through their post-graduation journey.
- The Dream Support Network: Providing resources for personal and professional goals.
- Men’s Health Retreats: Fostering physical and mental well-being.
- Women’s Rest and Wellness Retreats: Promoting self-care and relaxation.
- Annual Black Bear Project: Supporting community-wide initiatives and events.
Additionally, 5% of all proceeds from the Love Bears campaign will go to the CT Coalition to Protect Bears and 5% will support participating artists. Your support not only enhances the well-being of black and brown boys and their families but also strengthens our communities. Thank you for making a real difference!
Help us reach our $10,000 goal and transform lives—one bear at a time.