Richard Snow understands the importance of reaching wayward youth before it’s too late. As the executive director of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc., he has become a catalyst for mentorship through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. Snow spoke with rolling out about the value of using his organization to help the community. –amir shaw
Why was it important for Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. to partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters?
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. just signed on as a national partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters in June at the national convention in Miami. We had conversations about doing a partnership for the better half of the year and it seemed to be a great fit for what we’re trying to do. We have always had a mentoring program called Guide Right. Our graduates and undergrads are charged with helping the youth in the community. We have put that program under the banner of Big Brothers Big Sisters.
What role has technology played in helping your organization spread the word?
Technology has allowed us to have a tremendous advantage by using social networks. It allows us to get the message out in [a] uniform and quick way. It has been an asset.
How does this program help young black men?
As a black male organization, we have tremendous burden with situation of young black males. So many fathers have left the household, so we have to do what we can to try to fill the void. We can’t afford to allow our young men not to achieve because we are afraid to communicate with them. We must take the responsibility of being there for young men who don’t have role models and do [our] best so that we can help them to eventually become positive role models in society.
