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 | | |
A Special Appeal from ACM
Every story in this newsletter is proof that lasting change happens when communities invest in one another. From mentoring youth and creating career pathways to feeding vulnerable neighbors and strengthening families, your support makes this work possible. Please consider becoming a monthly donor and help ACM continue building safer, stronger communities across Washington, D.C.
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ACM Earns the Highest Level of Transparency
Candid Platinum Seal Demonstrates Accountability and Trust
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For more than 30 years, the Alliance of Concerned Men has worked alongside youth, families, and communities across D.C. This summer, that commitment to service received national recognition when ACM earned the Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency, the highest level of transparency awarded by the nonprofit evaluation organization.
The Platinum Seal recognizes groups that go beyond sharing financial information and demonstrate measurable results and a commitment to public accountability. The distinction reflects our dedication to stewarding resources responsibly while continuing to invest in our youth through violence prevention, workforce training, and community engagement.
As ACM expands programming and partnerships, this recognition provides supporters, donors, and stakholders with added confidence that their investments are creating meaningful and lasting impact.
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Building Careers Through Workforce Development
OSHA 30 Graduates Take Next Step in the Building Trades
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ACM's Workforce Development Program continues to create pathways to meaningful employment for young people seeking hands-on careers.
This summer, members of Workforce Development Cohort 5 successfully earned their OSHA 30 certifications in the building trades, completing industry-recognized safety training that prepares them for professional job sites and long-term career opportunities.
In partnership with the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS) and workforce development partners, participants are now engaged in apprenticeship opportunities, working five days a week while gaining valuable experience in the construction industry.
The accomplishment builds on our commitment to connecting youth with job skills, certifications, mentorship, and direct employment pathways. Programs like these help young people move from training to careers while providing the confidence and stability that come from meaningful work.
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Credible Messengers Recognized for Excellence
D.C. Honors ACM for Outstanding Service to Youth and Families
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ACM's Credible Messenger Program continues to transform lives through mentorship and workforce development opportunities for young people. The program connects participants with trusted mentors who help them navigate challenges, build life skills, and prepare for future success.
Recently, ACM's Credible Messenger team was recognized during the District's Credible Messenger Appreciation Event, sponsored by the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services.
ACM was honored with two of the event's highest distinctions: Credible Messenger of the Year and Family Engagement Specialist of the Year
These awards reflect the compassion and commitment demonstrated daily by ACM staff and mentors as they work to strengthen families, support youth, and build safer communities throughout the District.
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Stronger Together With DC Central Kitchen
New Partnership Expands Support for Families, Youth, and Vulnerable Residents
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ACM is proud to announce a new partnership with DC Central Kitchen, strengthening efforts to combat food insecurity throughout the District. Through this collaboration, DC Central Kitchen is helping ACM provide meals and nutritional support to individuals experiencing homelessness and other vulnerable community members served through the Community Health Initiative. The partnership is also helping enhance ACM's Summer Camp programming by ensuring youth have access to healthy meals and snacks.
By working together, ACM and DC Central Kitchen are leveraging their shared commitment to community well-being and creating a broader network of support for residents who need it most. Partnerships like these allow ACM to expand its reach and continue delivering the services that help families and communities thrive.
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A Summer Filled With Learning and Discovery
Campers Explore Nature, Friendship, and New Experiences
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As ACM's 2026 Summer Camp season comes to a close, one thing is clear: young people have spent the summer learning, growing, and creating memories that will last far beyond the season. Serving 60 at-risk youth through a free summer program in partnership with Sousa Middle School, DC Central Kitchen, and the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), ACM's camp combined education, recreation and mentorship throughout the summer months.
One recent highlight was a visit to Kingsman Island, where campers explored native plant habitats and learned about the herbs, foods, and natural resources found throughout the District's ecosystem. The experience gave youth an opportunity to connect with nature while learning about environmental stewardship and local history.
From outdoor adventures and artistic activities to friendship-building and personal growth, the summer program provided a safe and engaging environment where young people could strengthen their confidence, curiosity, and connection to one another.
| Click the image above to watch the video! | | | |
Growing Food, Growing Connections
Sousa Students Join NCAA Athletes for a Fun Day of Learning
| ACM joined student-athletes from the Big 12 Conference for a special field day at Sousa Elementary School. Youth gathered produce from the Sousa community garden, learning about healthy foods and teamwork while celebrating the season's harvest. Students also enjoyed games, activities, and time with the college athletes, creating a day filled with fun, mentorship, and positive connections. | Click the image above to watch the video! | | | |
Community Health Initiative: We Care and We Engage
Meeting People Where They Are With Compassion and Resources
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ACM's Community Health Initiative continues to provide a critical lifeline for individuals facing homelessness, substance abuse, and food insecurity. Since launching in 2023, the initiative has provided outreach and support to more than 10,595 people across the District.
Many of the individuals served are navigating addiction and housing instability. Through consistent street outreach, ACM teams distribute food, clothing, resource information, and harm reduction materials while building trusted relationships with those most in need. More than 3,200 doses of Naloxone have been distributed to help prevent overdose deaths and improve community safety.
Since 2025, ACM has also helped connect 75 individuals to treatment options, providing education and referrals that support recovery and long-term wellness. Every Monday and Friday, outreach teams serve approximately 150 community members, ensuring vulnerable residents have access to meals, information, and caring support. The work reflects our belief that every person deserves dignity, respect, and an opportunity to access the resources necessary to build a healthier future.
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Sharing Conflict Resolution Expertise Across the Country
Terrance Staley & Stanley Jones Bring ACM's Model to Seattle
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The impact of ACM's work is being recognized well beyond Washington, D.C. Recently, ACM CEO Terrance Staley and Chief of Staff Stanley Jones traveled to Seattle, Washington, to train teams and community leaders in conflict resolution strategies that have helped strengthen neighborhoods and support youth throughout the District.
The visit provided an opportunity to share lessons learned from years of community-based violence interruption, mentorship, and relationship-building. Through workshops and discussions, ACM leaders demonstrated practical strategies for resolving conflict, building accountability, and fostering healthier communities.
The trip represents another example of how grassroots solutions developed by ACM help inform community safety efforts nationwide.
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Connecting Youth to Career Opportunities
ACM Joins GZEP 2026 Job Fair to Support Workforce Readiness
| ACM participated in the DC Department of Energy's Green Zone Environmental Program (GZEP) 2026 Job Fair, where summer workforce participants connected with local employers, explored career pathways, and learned about a variety of employment opportunities. Throughout the event, our staff engaged with youth and shared information about the organization's workforce development programs and ongoing initiatives designed to help young people prepare for successful careers. | |
Preparing for a Strong Start to the School Year
Youth Build Character and Confidence Before Returning to Class
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As summer winds down, ACM continues helping young people prepare for success both inside and outside the classroom. Recent activities at Turner Elementary School focused on teamwork, communication, leadership, and self-respect. Through engaging group activities and mentorship opportunities, youth practiced working together, solving problems, and supporting one another.
These experiences reflect ACM's broader mission of teaching conflict resolution while helping young people understand their value, responsibility, and potential. Whether through educational activities, mentorship, or community engagement, every program is designed to help develop future leaders, achievers, and engaged citizens.
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We want to hear from you!
www.acmdc.org
info@acmdc.org
202-575-7544
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