August 7, 2017 - The Fort Wayne UNITED initiative is continuing proactive efforts to enhance opportunities, advance youth advocacy and help ensure the safety of all residents with a focus on black men and boys.
More than 180 youth and young adults as part of Fort Wayne UNITED are scheduled to take part in the Global Leadership Summit on Aug. 10-11 at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum. Participants will learn about leadership concepts, conflict resolution, communication and many other components of effective leadership. On Aug. 10, the young men and women will have the opportunity to have lunch with several community leaders from 1-2:30 p.m. as part of the Fort Wayne UNITED Leaders Luncheon.
Fort Wayne UNITED is a mayoral initiative started by Mayor Tom Henry in 2016 and is under the direction of Iric Headley. It places two national efforts, Cities United and My Brother’s Keeper, into one program to make a meaningful difference with an emphasis on listening, input, letting voices be heard and engagement.
The vision is for every black male in Fort Wayne to be respected and valued with an opportunity to reach their full potential. The mission is to advocate for and implement policies, practices, and procedures to ensure equity and opportunity for black fathers, brothers, and sons at home, work, school, and community through collaborative efforts.
Goals to lead to positive outcomes include engagement of black men and boys, the community, policymakers, philanthropic community, and data gathering.
Criminal justice, non-profit, clergy, health, and education leaders, along with representatives from the Fort Wayne Police Department are part of the Fort Wayne UNITED Steering Committee that’s working to make Fort Wayne the best community possible and move Fort Wayne UNITED forward.