This post was written by Eric Westbrook, Director for the Mayor’s Office of Black Male Engagement.

Last month, the Mayor’s Office of Black Male Engagement (OBME) organized its third My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) Action Academy—the We See You, Brother dinner. Volunteers from the Mayor’s Commission on African American Males and the Men of Color City Resource Group collaborated with Chosen 300 Ministries to serve a holiday meal to over 70 individuals experiencing homelessness. They also provided light entertainment and connected attendees to City resources. 

Why a service project?

The My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) Action Academy focuses on improving the quality of life of men and boys of color in Philadelphia. Bi-monthly neighborhood-based community engagement workshops are designed to provide the tools and resources necessary to close the opportunity gap. 

The holiday season brought an important reminder that there are many Black men and boys facing housing insecurity and hunger.

After guests left, the volunteers gathered for a re-cap of the night of service. They shared how important it was to give back, how inspired they were to make service a recurring part of their lives, and how moving it was to  engage with attendees and remind them that they’re not alone. 

What’s next for the MBK Action Academy?

In honor of Black History Month, the MBK Action Academy will take the form of a four-part series: The Black Generational Wealth Series. The goal is  to empower Black men and help them transform their communities by learning what is needed to make generational wealth a reality for Black Philadelphians. 

Four events will be held throughout February covering topics such as financial literacy, utilizing City resources and initiatives, entrepreneurship, and transferring wealth. Each will feature professional panelists with relevant experience and unique insight.   

For more information on The Black Generational Wealth Series, contact the office at OBME@phila.gov or 215-686-0332 and follow @OBMEPHL on Instagram.