MBK Newark joins the Obama Foundation’s My Brother’s Keeper Alliance (MBK Alliance) in commemorating the monumental 10-year anniversary of My Brother’s Keeper (MBK). As a key participant in the extensive network of over 100 MBK communities nationwide, MBK Newark is thrilled to celebrate a decade of impactful work in creating pathways to opportunity for boys and young men of color.
Established as a White House Task Force in 2014, My Brother’s Keeper has been a beacon of hope and change, inspired by the vision set out by President Obama and driven by the dedication of communities like Newark. Through evidence-based programs and community engagement, MBK has consistently addressed systemic challenges, empowering young people to reach their full potential.
Now operating as a program of the Obama Foundation, the MBK network empowers MBK Newark to be at the forefront of driving positive change locally. The initiative has implemented impactful programs to ensure every child enters school prepared to learn, achieves academic success, and has access to post-secondary education and employment opportunities. Through educational programs, job training initiatives, and community partnerships, MBK Newark has worked tirelessly to uplift youth and provide the necessary support for their success.
The impact of MBK in Newark is significant, with the city designated as one of four nationwide My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) Model Communities last year. Newark achieved this recognition by demonstrating substantial impact in MBK Milestone Six: Remaining Safe from Violent Crime. The city’s efforts resulted in a remarkable reduction in homicides, marking a 60-year low.
As the community reflects on the past decade, there is a celebration of progress made and a renewed commitment to the work ahead. MBK Newark continues to build upon efforts to reduce violence and make progress toward achieving equitable outcomes for young people in Newark. This includes milestones such as entering school ready to learn, reading at grade level by 3rd grade, graduating from high school, completing post-secondary education or training, and successful employment.
Robert Clark, Founder & CEO of MBK Newark, expressed, “As we celebrate 10 years of impact with My Brother’s Keeper, MBK Newark reflects on the progress that’s been made to build a safe and supportive community for boys and young men of color. MBK Newark is also looking at this milestone as an opportunity to renew our commitment to driving positive change in our community through education and workforce development opportunities. We look forward to continuing to work with our partners and community leaders in the years ahead to advance equitable outcomes and build a brighter future for our young people.”
Dr. Adren Wilson, the Executive Director of the Obama Foundation’s MBK Alliance, commended MBK Newark’s dedication and resilience, stating, “The 10-year anniversary of My Brother’s Keeper is a testament to the unwavering commitment and resilience of our extensive network of over 100 MBK Communities, like MBK Newark who are working every day to bring about real change. It’s inspiring to witness the transformative impact that their local initiatives have had on the lives of boys and young men of color. As we celebrate this milestone, we honor the tireless efforts of MBK Newark, who has worked tirelessly to inspire and empower the next generation to dream without limitations and to connect them with the tools, opportunities, and resources necessary to turn those dreams into reality.”
