Shaping Responsible Young Men for Tomorrow
In many rural South African villages, there is a great absence of positive male role models for young boys. Most fathers have moved to the larger cities in search of a decent income for their families. This situation leaves the young boys independent and free to make their own decisions. Many times, the result is alcoholism, promiscuity and a general attitude of lethargy. In a country that is dealing heavily with the problem of HIV/AIDS, a great amount of attention needs to be given to the men of tomorrow, as they will not only help shape the family structure, but the country itself.
Therefore, the Palala Boys Club engages upper primary school boys, with adult mentors present and actively participating, once a week over a period of six months. Each weekly club meeting includes a critical discussion time integrated with a correlating project or activity.
The goal of each club meeting is to create an honest motivation in each boy to be responsible in their personal lives and develop skills that will enhance their creativity, work ethic and future education. The Palala Boys Club creatively integrates an important education about topics like HIV/AIDS with a series of projects and activities that appeal to their interests, creating awareness for the boys of alternatives to unhealthy behavior in their lives and encouraging fun and practical ways to spend their free time.
The children in upper primary school are at a crucial age in their own personal development, but also have a great opportunity to shape the future of their local communities and South Africa. The Palala Boys Club helps the boys to develop a healthy empowered leader mentality in which they can play an important part in role-modeling for the younger children in the community. It is our hope that the boys will gain a world of insight into male responsibility and leadership in the family and as citizens of South Africa.
Sample Club Outline
