About Us
My Brother’s Keeper initiative was launched in February 2014 by former President Obama in response to the persistent opportunity gaps faced by boys and young men of color across our nation. Many cities, towns, and tribal governments have risen to the call to action as local My Brother's Keeper chapters to ensure all young people can reach their full potential.
My Brother's Keeper Charlotte-Mecklenburg (MBKCLTMeck) accepted the My Brother's Keeper Community Challenge in 2018 and as of July of 2023 is led by Executive Director, Ricky Singh alongside a diverse board of directors and staff.
MBKCLTMeck is a collective impact organization founded by men of color that utilizes a collective impact model to address the inequities of Boys of Color.
My Brother's Keeper Charlotte-Mecklenburg boasts one of the most recognizable, talented and visible Board of Directors in all of Mecklenburg County. Each member of the board possesses a distinguished track record in their respective industries, and their collective knowledge spans finance, education, marketing and governance.
Milestones
The My Brother’s Keeper initiative in support of
the Obama Foundation is focused on six milestones:
Getting a Healthy Start and Entering School Ready to Learn
All children should have a healthy start and enter school ready -- cognitively, physically, socially, and emotionally.
Reading at Grade Level by Third Grade
All children should be reading at grade level by age 8 -- the age at which reading to learn becomes essential.
Graduating from High School Ready for College and Career
All youth should receive a quality high school education and graduate with the skills and tools needed to advance to postsecondary education or training.
Completing Postsecondary Education or Training
Every American should have the option to attend postsecondary education and receive the education and training needed for the quality jobs of today and tomorrow.
Successfully Entering the Workforce
Anyone who wants a job should be able to get a job that allows them to support themselves and their families.
Keeping Kids on Track and Giving Them Second Chances
All youth and young adults should be safe from violent crime; and individuals who are confined should receive the education, training, and treatment they need for a second chance.
Our Values
Data-driven
Outcome focused
Research-based
Inclusive
Cultural Responsiveness
Collaboration
Don Thomas
Executive Director
01
15 years experience in Advanced Youth Development02
A transformation oriented leader that has help shape systems approaches for social justice through data, investments and service delivery coordination.03
Bachelor's degree in Politics & Government and Biblical & Theological studies, as well as a Master's degree in Religious Leadership concentration in Social Transformation.
Our Team
Ricky Singh
Ricky Singh is a artist, educational leader, father and community curator based in Charlotte's Historic West End. He's a founding member of the leadership team at Charlotte Lab School, a K-9 charter school established in 2015.
As a multi-talented artist, Singh specializes in graffiti-based murals. His creative canvas extends to pots, bags, sneakers, and more, through which he weaves stories of empowerment, unity, and vibrant color within his community and across the city. Originally hailing from New York City, Singh made Charlotte his home a decade ago, leading numerous art projects and orchestrating community initiatives since.
Singh's unique talent lies in uniting people through community-driven experiences that seamlessly merge art and activism. His latest endeavor is at the helm of My Brother’s Keeper Charlotte-Mecklenburg, where he now serves as the Executive Director.
Reginald Bean
Managing Director
White Label Management
Ken Burton
Senior Vice President
Bank of America
Kieth Cockrell
President
Bank of America
Michael DeVaul
National Executive Director
Bos & Young Men of Color
YMCA
Mark Jerrell
Board of County Commissioners
District 4
Eric Lewis
Chief Executive Officer
NXT|CLT
Jorge Millares
Founder
Queen City Unity
Anthony Trotman
Deputy County Manager
Mecklenburg County
Braxton Winston
City of Charlotte
City Council
I am Aaron
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01
Over 10 years of experience02
Coached 2,000+ people03
Bachelors in nutrition
