The 16th Circuit District Attorney’s Office held its first Mentorship Day at the Columbus Boys and Girls Club on Saturday, August 1, aiming to foster connections between youth and community mentors. Men from local organizations, including Alpha Phi Alpha and Omega Psi Phi fraternities, participated to teach boys life skills such as tying a tie, changing a tire, and basketball drills.
District Attorney Tina Rogers said the event was designed to show young men and women that they are not alone and that community members care about their well-being. She emphasized the importance of teaching conflict resolution and self-presentation skills, which she believes can positively influence youth behavior.
Gabriel Hampton, a participant, said his favorite part was learning how to tie a tie because he did not know how. Emmitt Johnson Jr. noted that seeing the smiles on the young participants’ faces underscored the event’s impact. Both Rogers and Johnson expressed hope that similar events will become a regular occurrence and expand in scope.
Rogers and Johnson emphasized that these events provide a vital outlet for youth to seek help and express challenges they may not openly discuss at home. They advocate for continued community involvement to support young people and prevent future issues.
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Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
