Word Is Bond

Rising leaders is our flagship three-year program. In year one, participants (called ambassadors) gain foundational leadership and professional skills. In year two, they are placed in paid internships with leading portland-area businesses. In year three, they participate in the blackstar homecoming expedition, a transformative two-week leadership immersion in ghana.

The spring leadership forum is a one-week immersion in washington, d.c., focused on public policy and college readiness. Ambassadors meet with elected officials, visit hbcus, and create a public policy proposal, which they present in d.c. And again to their local community. All travel, lodging, and meals are fully funded.

Level up supports personal growth and leadership development throughout the school year. Monthly pro-social eventsopen to all young black meninclude academic support, mentorship, dinner, workshops, and discussions centered on leadership. Activities range from movie nights and sports events to an annual ski trip to mt. Hood.

In my shoes is an interactive community walking and storytelling project curated and led by the community ambassadors of word is bond. The program focuses on public speaking and community engagement. Ambassadors learn to design and lead walking tours of their communities and historical black neighborhoods of portland.