STRENGTHENING OUR SONS INC.
MATLAND, FLORIDA

Who We Are Strengthening Our Sons (SOS) is a haven that provides resources, support and one-stop-shop for parents, educators, healthcare providers, community activists and anyone who cares about boys. The 501c3 nonprofit organization was created with the sole purpose of providing wraparound services that focuses on young males living social and emotionally healthy lives. We also provide extensive support to parents especially single mothers raising boys. We feel society is failing all boys and boys of color are not being given a fair opportunity in life. We want to create a society that will embrace young males especially males of color, and help create positive outcomes in their lives. We want to change the negative images and bad reputation that males of color have been given. By providing comprehensive mental health services, parent enrichment, and a male youth leadership program, we’re creating resources to help improve the life styles of our young males. Strengthening Our Sons has been operating and providing it’s services in Orlando, Florida since 2009. Strengthening Our Sons was referred to me for my 2 boys 3 years ago. My 2 boys are currently 12 and 14. Prior to learning about Strengthening Our Sons, we had a lot going on in our lives and it was affecting my boys. My boys were having major behavior problems and failing in school. Once my boys started Strengthening Our Sons, the program worked very closely with both me and my sons. We were assigned a male counselor that provided family and individual counseling to help us at home, while at the same time the boys received mentoring from the program. Year after year of being involved with Strengthening Our Sons, my sons have improved in all aspects of their lives. Their behavior in school and at homes has greatly improved. Their self-esteem has also improved and they both enjoy school. So much that this school year 2016-2017 both my boys made the honor role at school. My oldest has made the Principal’s honor roll twice this school year. I owe so much to Strengthening Our Sons program for all they have done for me, my boys and my family. I now see a positive and bright future for my boys. As a single parent, I’m grateful for Strengthening Our Sons program. My son Ahmad started Strengthening Our Sons at the age of 9 and he is currently 15. Upon starting SOS, I was having problems with my son academically and with his behavior. But after starting SOS, my son began to make positive changes. From the mentoring and tutoring my son received, my son began to make a tremendous turn around in school and at home. I’ve also seen my son’s self-esteem increase and my son and I have a wonderful relationship. Through the years that my son has been a part of Strengthening Our Sons male youth leadership program, I can honestly say that the mentors have a heart for our boys. The staff is dedicated, understanding and caring. Strengthening Our Sons has a great vision and purpose for our boys and the community. The program has taught him life skills, etiquette, problem solving and how to be a man. The mentors have guided him on the right path and constantly encouraged him. My son has had so many life changing opportunities since being in the program. The Junior Flight program, Mechanical Aviation Summer Camp, Junior Firefighters Academy, and college tours are just to name a few examples. Not only have they been great mentors and leaders in my son's life, but now my son is mentoring the younger kids in the program. Tammie and all the mentors are doing an excellent service for our community and the youth. I will forever be grateful to Strengthening Our Son's and all the hard work and dedication. The mentors have instilled pride, restored my son's joy and gave him hope! There has not been one time that they have let me or my son down. The mentors are consistent and truly care about out young men. I am so honored to be associated with this program and the great things they represent. A million thank yous from a grateful proud mom! Every dollar we receive from heroes like you helps Central Florida sons. Here’s how it’s spent.