Durham Business & Professional Chain's Rites of Passage Appreciation Day

Join us on Saturday July 16, 2022 at our First Annual Rites of Passage Appreciation Day Celebration to raise funds for the Durham Business & Professional Chain’s Rites of Passage and to honor those volunteers who have built this initiative into a nationally-acclaimed mentoring program for young African American men and women since 1989. The Durham Business & Professional Chain is chaired by Larry “Muata” Hester and the Rites of Passage is administered by its Cultural Committee, chaired by William “Kojo” Turner and co-chaired by Donna “Awusi” McIver.

The Rites of Passage would be unique if just for its continuous length of service to the community. But its greatest asset has been its dedicated team of volunteer mentors and coordinators – many of whom have been with the program from its start in 1989. Along with parents, graduates and volunteers, the program has helped our young people to develop positive life skills, to take responsibility and to lead more successful lives.

The Rites of Passage is unique in other ways. It parallels the school year’s nine-month term, involves academic instruction, life skills training, African and African American history, entrepreneurship, health, conflict resolution and much more. Regularly scheduled meetings, outings, camping trips and an annual out-of-town trip to a culturally relevant destination are part of the planned activities. Parental participation is a required component. The program culminates in an annual graduation ceremony that celebrates the successful passage of young men into the ranks of adulthood.

Its proven track record of helping young African American men and women learn to take responsibility, develop positive life skills and lead more successful lives is a testament to its role as a community institution and a valuable cultural resource in Durham NC and the surrounding area. Over 450 young people and their families have been mentored and have benefitted from its rigorous requirements.

But the need is great. The program is free to all participants. More mentors and coordinators are needed to serve the growing young black male population in the Triangle area. Your donation will go a long way toward keeping the Rites of Passage equipped to help our young people meet the ever-growing challenges of today’s society.

Enjoy a delicious dinner buffet and good company while supporting one of Durham’s most enduring and effective mentoring programs for young African Americans. African attire is suggested.

Host or Publisher Durham Business & Professional Chain