Founder of Detroit Boys Mentoring Club partners with The Takeover

Keith Butler, founder of The Detroit Boys Mentoring Club, recently joined forces with The Takeover founders Kenzie Current, Jennifer Peeples and Nik Cole to support young boys in Detroit. Proceeds from The Takeover event on Dec. 21 will benefit DBMC the organization, providing guidance and opportunities for success.

Butler spoke to rolling out to share his outlook on the partnership.

Why did you establish the nonprofit, The Detroit Boys Mentoring Club?

In 2013, I started the nonprofit, originally called All In One Mentoring but later changed it to The Detroit Boys Mentoring Club. Two events in my life inspired me to start this organization. First, in November 2011, I had my first son and wanted to create something that could benefit not only him but also his peers. I wanted to provide them with opportunities to succeed. Second, in September 2012, I tragically lost my little brother to gun violence in Detroit. This event motivated me to never be in a position where I couldn’t help a young boy in need.

How did you connect with the founders of The Takeover?

I know Kenzie through our work for the mayor. We both share a passion for providing resources and support to the people of Detroit. We discussed our respective programs and realized that we could collaborate to make a greater impact. Kenzie introduced my program to The Takeover team, and they agreed to partner with us.

How will boys in the program be positively impacted?

We have several initiatives planned to positively impact the boys in our program. For Christmas, we will be organizing giveaways to ensure they have everything they need during the holiday season. We understand that many families are grieving, and we want to be a resource for those who may not have the means or the spirit to enjoy the holidays. Additionally, we have partnered with Code 313, a Detroit-based program that teaches robotics and coding to young kids.

Why should young men be involved with mentoring clubs such as these?

Mentoring clubs provide young men with guidance and support beyond what the school curriculum offers. In today’s world, where information is readily available through the internet, it is crucial to shape and mold their passions and aspirations. We want to ensure that they have a clear path to success and are not left to figure it out on their own.

What three leadership skills does the nonprofit emphasize?

The first is self-excellence, where we help the boys strengthen their mind, body and spirit. The second pathway is career readiness, where we prepare them for various career paths, whether it be further education, trades or entrepreneurship. Lastly, we emphasize community leadership. We want to build a generation that not only achieves personal success but also gives back to their community.