We see you: Mentoring Urban Students and Teens (M.U.S.T)

As part of the Fund’s commitment to elevating truthful Black narratives and connecting communities for collective power, we are excited to share brief highlights of our We See You grantees.

Learn more about their work, their vision for a free Black future, and the ways the community can support moving forward.

1.   Who are you as an organization?

Mentoring Urban Students & Teens (M.U.S.T.) is a Seattle based non-profit whose mission is to provide a space for Black males to liberate themselves through mentoring.

2.   What is your vision for a free Black future, and how is your organization contributing to that vision?

M.U.S.T. envisions a world in which Black males are free to discover who they are and what they can achieve. M.U.S.T. pairs high school age Black males with relatable, emerging adult Mentors (Black males age 18-29 who are in college or starting careers) to help guide and inspire them over the course of their high school tenure as they form a vision for their future and discover their authentic path in life.

Likewise, Mentors are paired with adult volunteer coaches committed to supporting them on their own path by assisting them in the development of their leadership styles and navigating adulthood. M.U.S.T.’s mentoring model is guided by a holistic approach to the development of our Mentees and Mentors. Where all are supported and encouraged to take control of their own unique mental, physical, emotional and spiritual potential through connection and brotherhood.

3.   How has the Black Future Co-op Fund helped support your work? In what other ways would you like more support?

The support M.U.S.T. has received from the Black Future Co-op has allowed for the continuation, and expansion of mentoring services M.U.S.T. is able to deliver to Seattle's Black youth by providing mentoring meals, outings and events focused on growth, education and liberation.

M.U.S.T. is continually seeking support in the form of new funding streams, volunteer adult coaches to help support and guide our Mentors, marketing and promotion of our organization, direct monetary donations, service on our board of directors as positions become available, connection to potential grantors, and donation of goods and services for the youth we serve.