Exciting news, everyone! Quadeer Porter, the president and founder of Brothers Building A Better Nation (BBABN), has been accepted to Rutgers University School of Social Work to become a licensed clinical social worker!
Quadeer's decision to go back to school was largely inspired by his work with the young men in the BBABN program. As he puts it, "I saw the lack of black male mental health workers and felt a calling to help address this issue. Too many of the young men in our community are dying because they feel hopeless and that nobody sees them. I want to let them know that I see them and will do whatever is needed to make sure they get the care they need."
Quadeer has been accepted to the school of social work, and classes are set to begin in Fall 2023. While studying at Rutgers, Quadeer is particularly interested in learning about the direct intervention model that BBABN uses in its One Nation program. His goal is to enhance the services that BBABN currently offers, which include case management, mentorship, group therapy, job readiness, and professional development. Quadeer's ultimate aim is to ensure that young men in his community have access to high-quality mental health services and the support they need to thrive.
As Quadeer himself puts it, "I refuse to give up on the goodness that is still inside of my fellow men. I want each and every one of them to experience the power of brotherhood and the unconditional love that comes with it. I may not save everyone, but if there's one soul I can reach, it makes this whole journey worth it. Lives are precious."
We're proud of Quadeer and wish him all the best as he embarks on this exciting new chapter in his life. Let's all support him as he works to make a positive impact on the world!