Life Pieces to Masterpieces, a mentoring program based in Washington, D.C., was one of the 11 programs that received an award. The program aims to provide support and guidance to Black and Brown boys and young men from Wards 7 and 8.
D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb announced on Wednesday that nearly a dozen nonprofits in D.C. have secured new funding of $1.5 million through the “Leaders of Tomorrow Youth Violence Prevention Grant Program.”
Life Pieces to Masterpieces, a mentoring program that provides support to Black and Brown boys and young men from Wards 7 and 8, has been selected as one of the 11 programs out of over 200 applicants, as announced by the attorney general’s office.
According to Andrew Blickle, the director of the mentoring program, WTOP was informed that the organization relies solely on philanthropic and government grants to carry out their important work. Blickle expressed deep gratitude for the grant received from this particular office.
According to Blickle, the OAG funding holds great significance for their organization. He emphasized that this particular grant is especially crucial, not only because it exceeds their initial expectations in terms of size, but also because they are truly excited to have received it.
“We wholeheartedly endorse the actions and statements made by the attorney general regarding the cruciality of acknowledging that crime cannot be eradicated solely through prosecution.”
Life Pieces to Masterpieces offers after-school and summer programs.
Blickle believes that the creation of a safe space for young boys in D.C. is an immensely important endeavor.
Blickle expressed his belief that this will lead to a city that is full of happiness, hope, and peace.
“We are truly dedicated to the work we do at Life Pieces, so receiving recognition from the Attorney General holds immense significance for us.”
David Adams, a mentor at Life Pieces to Masterpieces and a junior at Delaware State University, also confirmed the impact of the nonprofit organization.
“I joined the program when I was in second or third grade, and I have been a part of it ever since. I have never left,” Adams shared.
“Life Pieces enveloped me with individuals who genuinely cared about my well-being. It was remarkable to have mentors and positive male and female role models supporting me.”
Adams acknowledged that the funding from the office of the attorney general holds great significance as it truly benefits the community and the youth, making a tangible difference in saving lives.
According to Schwalb, the D.C. programs that take proactive interventions are making a significant impact in the District.
“The Office of the Attorney General acknowledges the vital role that local organizations play in equipping young people with the necessary tools and skills for long-term success. With these grants, we are reaffirming our commitment to support these organizations and back our words with action,” emphasized Schwalb.
“Ensuring public safety encompasses various elements, including prevention efforts, law enforcement, and legal proceedings. Prevention work holds significant importance in creating a comprehensive strategy to maintain the District’s safety both presently and in the long run.”
According to Blickle, the program has the greatest impact on children and young men once they have participated in Life Pieces to Masterpieces.
According to Blickle, the impact that occurs at Life Pieces is not just limited to the boys and young men involved in the program. Instead, it extends to the communities they belong to.
Adams stands as a shining example of this kind of work. He has played a pivotal role in establishing Brothers in Power, a mentoring organization at Delaware State University. This initiative is dedicated to providing support and guidance to first-generation college students and those who aspire to be the first in their family to pursue higher education.
Blickle emphasized the significance of imparting the knowledge and experience gained from the program and giving back to the community.
“It holds significant value in our mission and plays a crucial role in the impact we can make.”
Cheyenne Corin from WTOP made a significant contribution to this report.
