Our History
Brothers Building A Better Nation was founded on September 10, 2020 in Newark, New Jersey by Quadeer Porter. After purchasing a property in Newark in 2020, Quadeer was approached by several young men from the neighborhood asking if he was the new owner. After confirming, he was told by the young men that he was the only black male homeowner on the street.
Later that year, Quadeer began to mentor several young men on the block and teach the team about the importance of personal finance, credit, education, and banking. To his dismay, one of the young men died from gang-related violence. It was at that time Quadeer approached some of the young men on the block asking what resources they needed to live happier productive lives. They told him a variety of things such as stable employment, transportation, cash assistance, and guidance
After writing down the items the young men told him, he began to call his classmates from Rutgers University to assist him in forming an organization that would build a pipeline from the streets to better opportunities for the young men in his community. They all agreed to help and since the day it was founded, Brothers Building A Better Nation has fought for the future of the young men in the Newark community and their families.
BBABN has helped over 25 young men of color in Newark, NJ, with 80% of apprenticeship graduates employed in their field. In the latest cohort, BBABN has trained 3 young men of color in trades, placed 3 in jobs, provided 2 with affordable housing, and 3 with legal advice and assistance. BBABN is committed to helping young men of color overcome the challenges they face and achieve their full potential.
Our Guiding Principle is that no brother should be left behind. We strive to empower every individual in our community to recognize the potential for greatness within themselves. In the words of the great Donny Hathaway, "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother," we remain committed to the mission of creating a better nation where all individuals, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to thrive
Our Guiding Principle is that no brother should be left behind. We strive to empower every individual in our community to recognize the potential for greatness within themselves. In the words of the great Donny Hathaway, "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother," we remain committed to the mission of creating a better nation where all individuals, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to thrive