KEVIN POWELL VISITS THE NYC JUSTICE CORPS

On Friday May 21, New York City Justice Corps members in our latest cohort were recognized for achieving their first milestone in the program, completion of service learning and job readiness. Kevin Powell, a renowned activist and writer, recognized the Corps members' accomplishments by presenting achievement awards. Additionally, Kevin Powell distributed his latest book, "The Black Male Handbook," to every Corps member. In an effort to promote reading and spark thoughtful conversations among the Corps members, NYC Justice Corps staff will lead a book club beginning May 28th, 2010. Mr. Powell's "The Black Male Handbook" will be the Club's first book for discussion. In his blog, Mr. Powell recalls his experience with the Corps members, "What I was hearing was a lot of genius in the room, genius that had yet to be properly cultivated and developed, genius that was taking a back seat to low self-esteem and much confusion around what a man is and is not."

The NYC Justice Corps aims to improve the education and employment outcomes of Corps members, keep them out of the criminal justice system, and support community development in specific New York City neighborhoods. The program is currently in its second year and has served over 200 young men and women with social services, education and vocational training, and job development. For more information on the NYC Justice Corps, visit www.nycjusticecorps.org.