Mentorship · Leadership · Purpose
Raising the next generation of distinction.
Young Men of Distinction empowers middle and high school youth through mentorship, leadership development, education, and meaningful opportunities — across three programs built for where every young person is.
Three programs, one family
A program for every young person.
Enrollment is based on age and grade level, so every student lands in the right room — middle school young men join YMOD, middle school young women join YLOD, and high school students join our co-ed YPOD program.
Middle school · Young men
Young Men of Distinction
Mentorship and brotherhood built on Honor, Respect, Dedication, and Commitment.
Middle school · Young women
Young Ladies of Distinction
Mentorship and sisterhood that build confidence, voice, and purpose.
High school · Co-ed
Young People of Distinction
College, career, and life preparation for the transition into adulthood.
Alumni spotlight
Our graduates are our proof.
Program alumni have gone on to college, careers, and service in their communities. Meet the young men and women who came through our programs and see where they are today.
22
Program alumni
3
Programs
Ca’ron Pittman
Class of 2022 · Forest Hill High School
Founding member of Young Men of Distinction.
Dmitry Peters
Class of 2022 · Forest Hill High School
Founding member of Young Men of Distinction.
Shemar Reese
Class of 2022 · John I. Leonard High School
Founding member of Young Men of Distinction.
Our mission
We provide supportive spaces where middle and high school youth develop confidence, character, life skills, and a strong sense of purpose — equipping the next generation to become successful, responsible, and impactful young adults.
- Mentorship and positive role models
- Leadership and character development
- Education, career, and life readiness
- A servant’s heart for the community
Your next step
Getting started is simple.
We want parents and young people to feel informed and comfortable. Here is how enrollment works from start to finish.
01
Learn
Explore the three programs and find the one that matches your child’s age and grade.
02
Apply
Complete the mentee application — one application covers up to five students in the same family.
03
Grow
Your child is welcomed into a community of mentors and peers focused on confidence, skills, and purpose.
Our supporters
Backed by our community.
Local businesses, foundations and community organizations who invest in our young people.
Have questions about which program is right for your child?
Our team can help you understand enrollment, mentoring, and everything in between.