The Art of Manliness

Young men in North Baldwin learn life lessons, life skills

By Tina Covington / For The Onlooker
Posted 8/8/18

BAY MINETTE, Alabama — This summer some young men in the North Baldwin have learned some very valuable life lessons as part of “The Art of Manliness” program. The initiative was the brainchild …

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The Art of Manliness

Young men in North Baldwin learn life lessons, life skills

Posted

BAY MINETTE, Alabama — This summer some young men in the North Baldwin have learned some very valuable life lessons as part of “The Art of Manliness” program. The initiative was the brainchild of Korey Chapman who wanted to help equip and prepare young men for success.

Saturday sessions were offered covering a wide range of topics and guest speakers. Those sessions have included “Obeying the Law” with Alabama State Trooper Monique Williams; “Learning CPR” with Heart for Athletes; “Entrepreneurship and How to Prepare a Meal” with Brandon Morrow; and “Professional Etiquette” with William Jones.

Chapman grew up in a single parent household and oftentimes missed out on those life lessons handed down from father to son. Now a father to two young children, including a son, he wanted to make sure others would have the opportunity to learn these life skills from male mentor. The organization also teaches team building, cultivates soft skills and provides a space for asking pertinent questions.

“It is a blessing to see something that I’ve thought about for years actually come to fruition,” Chapman said. “From the support from the various professionals in our community that gave of their time and resources to make each session a success, to the parents who enrolled their children in the program, it has indeed been a wonderful experience. I look forward to the future of The Art of Manliness-Baldwin County.”

Perhaps the greatest joy, Chapman said, is seeing the boys apply those skills at home. Many of the parents shared that their sons cooked at home or helped set the table, among other applications.

Rachel Rieben said her sons gained valuable experience while attending the program. “At first my boys were very hesitant about attending these classes. I’m raising three teenage boys – two I adopted – without a father, so this opportunity was an answer to prayer for me,” she said. “Ethan, DJ and Kaleb were each able to attend some of the classes and ended up really enjoying them. They have great respect for Mr. Chapman and enjoyed the time with the other boys. Korey connected with them really well. They learned life skills from preparing a meal to performing CPR. DJ said he feels like he has a greater appreciation for me now because he sees how hard I work for them.”

Now Chapman is focusing on reaching even more young men. After the successful summer launch, Chapman is making plans to expand the program into the school year for ages 9-years and older. The organization is not limited to those from single-parent households. The monthly sessions will focus on academics, how to be a leader in and out of the classroom as well as college prep for older participants. Those interested in participating can contact The Art of Manliness on Facebook or call Chapman at 251-753-6857.