“Some dreams come true in a week, some in a month, and some in years…but hold on to it!” exclaimed Mr. Davis, “When you have a dream, you prepare for it!”. That was the focus of the 2nd Annul Man up Young Men’s Conference at Terry Parker High School- for the students to realize their dreams and work until they become a reality. Communities in School’s site coordinator, Terra Harold-Jackson, has gathered over 200 students at Terry Parker as well as Middle school students from Arlington and Joseph Stilwell middle to attend this conference.

Terry Parker put their resources together to deliver this moving presentation. NJROTC started things off with the pledge of allegiance, followed by the school’s alma mater, sung by the school choir, which led to an energized performance by the step team. No matter what these performances may show, the underlying message is clear. The commanding respect of NJROTC, Choir’s soulful voices, and the precision of the step team were all a result of their dedication to what they love, their work, their goals, their dreams.

Pastor Thomas David, was first introduced by our host Joseph Kohn, and gave an inspirational speech about self advocating for a better future. Dr. Julius Demps followed by giving the men a new perspective on leadership and how it is to be attained. The students then had a chance to interact with and question successful men of the same background (Leon Baxton, Gibson Holmes, Charles Griggs, and Octavius Holiday). C.I.S’s CEO, Mr. Heymann, closed out the conference to the sound of a standing ovation from a group of inspired high school men. Wow! Special thanks go out to these gentleman and all those that volunteered to make our community a better place!

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