Alliance of Concerned Men
News, Views, & Updates
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| A Model for the Nation in Conflict Resolution, Community Health, Credible Messenger, and OST/MADC Youth Programming | | |
Skills That Open Doors
OSHA Training Builds a Foundation for Secure and Lasting Careers, Helps Advance ACM Mission for Community
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Workforce development remains at the heart of ACM’s mission—and this year, that commitment deepened. In partnership with the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS), Helping Others With Life, and A‑1 Plumbing, ACM delivered OSHA 30 safety certification as part of a broader workforce pathway for young people entering the trades (pilot program launched).
Participants completed industry‑standard OSHA training while learning what it means to show up prepared, alert, and accountable on the job. Safety wasn’t treated as an add‑on—it was taught as a core professional skill. By the end of the program, students earned credentials that make them job‑ready and employer‑trusted from day one.
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OSHA certification was earned alongside a 12‑week VOLT carpentry training program, creating a single, integrated workforce experience. Students learned carpentry fundamentals while applying safety standards in real time—ensuring technical instruction and job‑site expectations were learned side by side.
Beyond the tools, participants developed discipline, professionalism, and confidence. With direct job placement support built into the program, the transition from training to employment became clear and achievable. This approach represents more than training—it reflects ACM’s growing, transformational workforce model.
"Working with the youth has showed that these young people can learn and do anything if given the opportunity." - Charles King, "Helping Others With Life"
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Training With Purpose
VOLT Carpentry Combines Skills, Safety, and Job Placement
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ACM expanded hands‑on learning through a partnership with VOLT Demolition, bringing students directly onto active job sites. As part of the same workforce program, participants stepped into real demolition projects—seeing firsthand how training plays out in professional environments.
Students applied their OSHA safety knowledge, handled tools properly, and worked alongside experienced crews. These experiences reinforced accountability, teamwork, and confidence while giving youth a realistic look at careers in construction and demolition. It’s exposure that turns instruction into opportunity.
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Wellness in Action
Moving, Thinking, and Solving Together
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ACM youth are building healthy habits through dedicated weekly programming focused on wellness and growth. On Wellness Wednesdays, students participated in an energizing Zumba session followed by guided meditation, helping them release stress, move their bodies, and learn how to reset and relax. These moments reinforce the importance of caring for both physical and mental well‑being.
Earlier in the week, youth strengthened their cognitive and social skills through hands‑on activities. On Tuesdays, children practiced identifying colors and numbers to improve focus and memory—an especially meaningful support for students with IEPs. In group sessions, youth also created and acted out conflict‑resolution scenarios, working together to identify challenges and practice positive solutions. Each activity reflects ACM’s holistic approach to teaching young people how to think critically, communicate effectively, and support one another.
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Facing Fear and Having Fun
Kimball Elementary Youth Take Confidence to the Slopes with the help of ACM
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ACM recently joined partners at Kimball Elementary School for a field trip to the slopes of Pennsylvania—an unforgettable first‑time skiing and snowboarding experience for many students. The youth participate in ACM’s after‑school Conflict Resolution Program, making the trip both fun and meaningful.
After a full day on the slopes, the group shared a meal and reflected on overcoming fear, trying something new, and encouraging one another. Using skiing as a metaphor for life’s challenges, students explored confidence, resilience, and growth—lessons that extend far beyond the mountain.
| | | Mentorship, Presence, and Positive Messages in DC Public Schools | |
ACM continues to show up where young people need us most—inside DC public schools. In March, ACM joined families and educators at Sousa Middle School’s Family Night, creating space for parents to meet teachers and connect with the ACM after‑school team. Prinicipal Brittany Green (top left) joined our team for this event.
To show appreciation for student participation in ACM’s Athletic Conflict Resolution Program, the team provided food and giveaways for families. The program currently serves more than 100 students, and both participating teams proudly advanced to the DCPS basketball finals. Moments like these reinforce positive messaging, mentorship, and the power of consistency—on and off the court.
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Investing in What's Next
Youth Explore Trading, Sales, and the Meaning of Home
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ACM youth recently expanded their financial and personal development through a series of weekly youth group sessions led by guest facilitators and ACM leadership. Blest Norris, a sales and financial consultant with experience in transportation and solar, led engaging sessions on stock trading and careers in sales, giving youth exposure to real‑world financial concepts and professional pathways.
The series also included a powerful discussion facilitated by Lead Credible Messenger Jamie Staton (pictured below), centered on the theme “Envisioning Home.” Youth reflected on where they are now and what “home” means for their future—creating space for goal‑setting, self‑reflection, and aspiration. Together, these sessions reinforced ACM’s commitment to preparing young people not just for careers, but for life.
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We want to hear from you!
www.acmdc.org
info@acmdc.org
202-575-7544
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