I am an African-American male and I grew up in New Orleans' desire housing project and I can identify with these at risk young men involved in the Life's Pieces to Masterpieces program. your story and program inspires me to want to give more of myself to helping at risk young men. Keep up the good work and God has to bless you and your organization for your compassion.
Thanks soooo much for your kind words of encouragement. ....and you're from my hometown! That's REALLY GREAT! Yeah....Desire was "pretty intense" in my day as well, however, you have clearly translated your experiences into being the caring person you are today with a "desire" to help others. :) You know.....if you are truly inspired....then....just make yourself available. I know that's easier said than done. Quite frankly, YOU are DESPARATELY needed and if you can create time in your schedule to just share yourself with ONE young man, facing the challenges you have overcome, that, in and of itself, would be HUGE! I was just so happy to get our first comment, I haven't checked out World Youth Exposition yet! lol I'm about to do a little research now,as a matter of fact. Feel free to tell me more about your work with World Youth Exposition. It sounds interesting!
You mention that your "boys stay in school, complete highschool, attend college, find jobs and become change agents." Can you please share a story about someone who has gone through this process?
Thanks
Dana Frasz
Changemakers
Thanks so much for this question! Allow me to tell you about Maurice Kie, a young man who literally grew up in Life Pieces To Masterpieces (LPTM), starting with us as one of the original seven apprentices at age 10 and is now 21 years old. Like most young men, growing up in Lincoln Heights Public Housing Projects in Washington, DC, Maurice was raised in a single parent household with his younger brother Donnell and mother, Ms. Jackie. Donnell was age 4, when he started coming to LPTM with his "BIG" brother, Maurice, and Donnell was also one of the initial seven LPTM Apprentices. Maurice was EXTREMELY quiet, withdrawn, and very quick to anger and physical aggression. A young boy learns early on how to "put on his full coat of armor" growing up in neighborhoods where gunshots and sirens are your lullabies and smiling a sign of weakness. Maurice had heard about LPTM from some of his friends in the neighborhood and encouraged his mom to allow him and his younger brother to attend.
Maurice came every day and began to bond with his fellow apprentices/peers and LPTM Mentors, all mentors "hand-picked" from his community and who could easily relate to Maurice, yet, provide him with opportunities to experience so many things that were unfamiliar to him through our signature 4-part process, i.e. Fine Arts, Standard English, positive decision-making, meditation, yoga, hiking, rock climbing etc. Long story short, Maurice is now a Sophomore at the University of The District of Columbia majoring in Elementary Education, serves on LPTM's Board of Directors, successfully interned at Hunton & Williams Law Firm and is a Senior Mentor responsible for training up and coming LPTM Mentors. Last year, Maurice founded "Generation for Change" (see www.lifepieces.org- Programs). Maurice is only one of LPTM's over 62 success stories and rising ever rapidly. The two videos posted on this application chronicle Maurice's journey. Donnell is equally successful (Google "Donnell Kie"). More on the way!
Since I have witnessed from its inception the powerful impact LPTM has had on the lives of young men, initially from Lincoln Heights and then throughout the District of Columbia, let me testify on your behalf. First, the majority of the African American young men whom you serve are viewed by too many in government and in the private sector as being "lost" and unsalvageable. I witnessed an elementary school principal who was astounded at LPTM's first art exhibit by the fact the some of her male students whose behavior kept them constantly suspended from school were able to clearly express themselves, collectively write and illustrate via paintings their poetry and to work effectively as a team. She became a steadfast supporter of your efforts and made sure you became a partner with her school. I have heard countless "thank you's" from mothers that LPTM saved sons whom they thought would become victims of the streets...sons that they had given-up on as being beyond thier control. I must also admit that I have been surprised on more than one occassion by the masterpieces that resulted from the extremely tatterd lives that you have touched. Your astounding success resulting from the consistent exposure of these young men to true agape love and the continuous validation of their potential and humanity has proved the skeptics wrong. The vast majority of your young men are thriving in a social and cultural environment that is killing and whithering the dreams, hopes and souls of others. Why? Because of your love for and faith in them. This is the true value of LPTM. It is a clear example of what can happen in a community, nation, world where love is tangibly evident. Miracles can occur and lifepieces can become masterspieces. Keep up your inspirational work. The information about LPTM you have shared on this site does not capture the true essence of your story. LPTM's "shield of faith" and its principles do. Share them.
Since I have witnessed from its inception the powerful impact LPTM has had on the lives of young men, initially from Lincoln Heights and then throughout the District of Columbia, let me testify on your behalf. First, the majority of the African American young men whom you serve are viewed by too many in government and in the private sector as being "lost" and unsalvageable. I witnessed an elementary school principal who was astounded at LPTM's first art exhibit by the fact the some of her male students whose behavior kept them constantly suspended from school were able to clearly express themselves, collectively write and illustrate via paintings their poetry and to work effectively as a team. She became a steadfast supporter of your efforts and made sure you became a partner with her school. I have heard countless "thank you's" from mothers that LPTM saved sons whom they thought would become victims of the streets...sons that they had given-up on as being beyond thier control. I must also admit that I have been surprised on more than one occassion by the masterpieces that resulted from the extremely tatterd lives that you have touched. Your astounding success resulting from the consistent exposure of these young men to true agape love and the continuous validation of their potential and humanity has proved the skeptics wrong. The vast majority of your young men are thriving in a social and cultural environment that is killing and whithering the dreams, hopes and souls of others. Why? Because of your love for and faith in them. This is the true value of LPTM. It is a clear example of what can happen in a community, nation, world where love is tangibly evident. Miracles can occur and lifepieces can become masterspieces. Keep up your inspirational work. The information about LPTM you have shared on this site does not capture the true essence of your story. LPTM's "shield of faith" and its principles do. Share them.
Thanks, Bob for sharing your experience with LPTM!
First, LPTM's "intension". It is our intention to create a safe, healthy, happy and peace-filled environment in which we can "submerge" the "thoughts, words and actions" of ALL LPTM Apprentices, families, Teen Mentors, Adult Mentors, Staff, Volunteers, Board of Directors and partners. We have found in youth development, practioners, with ease, throw around the statement "We want to EMPOWER youth!" "We must help young men and boys find their POWER".
After asking numerous new LPTM candidates, ages 12-21, "What is your POWER?" Their responses ranged from "Ma 9" (gun/weapon) to "Ma fists" to "money" to "how I please the ladies". It was clear to us that we, LPTM" had to create a curriculum that defines "POWER" for our apprentices and our definition is "My power consists of MY thoughts, MY words, MY actions which determine my destiny." We go on to define "thoughts" as "the stories" in a person's life. Stories that have been experienced, stories that have been told and those stories WE create.... It is AMAZING to see the light that turns on in our apprentices eyes when they understand the immense POWER of their very own thoughts! Using LPTM's 4 part Human Development System ( go to www.lifepieces.org) we lovingly guide them on the journey through their stories.
All of this is done in a culture of environment saturated with the "highest intentions" and vision of ourselves, our apprentices, their families and our environment. Our Shield of Faith, eventhough it could be easily confused with or assigned to a certain religious belief is actually a product of introspection of LPTM's two founders and is rooted in very universal concepts that permeate most belief systems. It is artistic and very scientific. It also will take more than 39 words for me to explain...lol! So..I will attempt to post another response to your comment explaining the Sheild in more detail.
LPTM's Shield of Faith is color coded similar to the color wheel, ie red complements green, orange complements blue, yellow complements purple, etc.
So...Red is "Spiritual Principles" We teach our boys about their "physical body", "emotional/feeling body" and their, "Peaceful body/brain". They learn that in order to achieve health, happiness and peace it is important to have basic universal beliefs that may come from various documents of religious beliefs, ie Bible, Koran, Talmud, Lotus Sutra, etc... or basic beliefs passed down to them verbally by their relatives, ie "what goes around comes around". On weekends, a number of our boys attend various places of worship with pre-screened and trained, LPTM Mentor families who welcome the boys in their homes on Saturdays and/or Sundays to spend time with them and learn about their spiritual beliefs and practices. Also, we teach the apprentices about spiritual beliefs of the world during program hours.
Red which is "spiritual principles" complements green which is "meditation". In order for our apprentices to connect with their thought patterns, we teach them how to be still, quite, examine their feelings which indicate thoght patterns. Through various types of meditation and yoga, the boys become aware of their innate ability to redirect their thoughts to create desirable outcomes in their lives.
Orange is "Loving" complements blue, "Giving". It's ok to say "I love you" as a male. "Love is the fruit of compassion". With "Giving" the apprentices learn about contributing to society, making a difference in the world. Yellow which is "Language" complements purple, "Arts". We embrace the colloquial dialects of our apprentices' culture and expose them to "Standard English", Sign Language and Spanish. We teach the importance of "body language". "Arts" is EVERYTHING! We are Creators! Here is our painting, drumming, poetry, prose - our stories!
As we apply all these values to our life, we get brown which is "discipline". It takes "discipline" to apply these values to our daily lives. All the values used in balance, yields "Black"/Leadership.
Since it's existence in 1996, Life Pieces To Masterpieces has been an organization of guidance for it's male youths in the Washington Lincoln Heights district and now throughout the Washington metropolitan area.
It has definitely been one of growth and maturity for our young men and benefited my course of action as well as changed my mine course of action. To watch LPTM's youths express themselves through their paintings, their politeness, their awareness of the positive aspects of life, their eagerness to satisfy others' views of their true intent and above all, their bonding with God; these and much more have brought me to the brink of knowing that I must share in the growth of our future resources. Through you Mary, and others who have worked with you, these young males have learned much. Their growth is astounding, their course is without end. LPTM shall continue to exist as long as there is a youth who cries out and touchs the heart that seeks fulfillment through a child regaining his true path in life.
Mary, you have done a great job. Your stamina, integrity and poise has made LPTM one of the number one sought after male youth centers in the District of Columbia. The work is challenging but the results are worth it.
I see you got your email up and working! CONGRATULATIONS and welcome to the "brave new world" of technology! You MUST REALLY LOVE Life Pieces! WOW! Ms. Susie, on email! I knew you could do it! Is this ALL you or did you get a little help from the grand babies ? lol ("lol" means laugh out loud/joking/ being funny).
Thank you soooo much for this.This TRULY means a lot!
Having witnessed Life Pieces to Masterpieces' transformative power from its inception, one early experience never leaves my memory. Just before enrolling in LPTM, a young 11-year old boy living in the Lincoln Heights public housing development wrote this poem: "When I look in the sky, I still don't know why. When I fall on the ground, there's no one around. When I stand on my feet, there's noone to meet. When tears fall from my face, it feels like a deserted place." Later, as one of the first LPTM apprentices, this young man led a team of boys in creating a painting which they called "Born in Hell." Every word of his poem was depicted in this powerful artistic expression of the pain and desolation he felt inside. I watched then as LPTM countered that desolation with daily doses of deep love, nurturing, coaching and a framework of accountability and discipline. It allowed him to give voice to the pain inside through his own artistic talents, and to connect with other boys in a safe environment where he could gradually let go of the armour required to survive the streets of Lincoln Heights.
Another memory is of the LPTM apprentices (aged 4 to 12) leading off a meeting of a major Washington DC Planning Commission with one of their Community Arts Performances. These are not really arts performances as much as they are teaching sessions about life .....that is, the children teaching the adults about the "Shield of Faith" and its principles for living creatively, responsibly, lovingly, and productively. To hear a 6-year old boy describe such LPTM principles as "Love + Security + Expression = Life. And No Love + No Security + No Expression = Death" does something to an adult mind filled with biases about little black boys from Lincoln Heights. When the boys finished, one attendee said," Well now that these young men have reminded us of values we've often forgotten, we had better put them in practice!
Allie! Thanks sooo much for reviewing our entry. I feel like I'm in the "mutual admiration society"! lol! "You are wonderful!" "Noooo, YOU are EVEN MORE WONDERFUL...! Nooooo! lol :}
Yes, I know this young man that you are referencing. From my heart, I wish I could give a positive update, however, he is going through soooo much now. He was one of the original seven along with Moe and Donnell, however..."we lost our grip". The downward tide of this young man's life literally sucked him into the criminal justice system where he had spent, I would say...7 years of his life.
He reconnected with us a few months ago and ALL his LPTM brothers embraced him with LOVE and open arms. We spent two to three days together and invited him to "come back home". Allie, his eyes seemed empty, broken. We let him know that we are here for him and will ALWAYs be here and that we will daily send loving intentions in his direction during our meditation and envisioning. My hope is, ....no...I believe that he WILL choose a path of LIFE. ..and...Allie, I know that you will join us in that vision for this young man.
We teach our boys that Challenge + Compassion yields CREATIVITY. "Compassion" not being "charity" rather being a sense of connectedness, oneness to all human beings regardless of race, age, gender, sexual orientation...oneness with the environment, ie rivers, grass, trees, soil... So...when confronted with adversity, our young men learn how to consider solutions that involve the highest good of ALL.
Quite frankly we are not necessarily interested in creating a group of young men "going from Harlem to Harvard" or "The projects to Princeton"! Don't get me wrong. That WOULD be GREAT and in this next class of LPTM H.S. Juniors, we may have a few Ivy Leaguers! We care about young men who are WISE "Knowledge +compassion". It is such wisdom that can lead us from war to PEACE.
I first saw the young men from Life Pieces to Master Pieces three years ago and I've been inspired every since. What do you say about an organization who takes negative and turns it into positive? An organization who finds that bright spot on the worst of days. Being around Life Pieces has taught me to be a better person, even better LPTM has made me want to be a better person.
Have you ever seen a four year old speak with such a presence that it stays with you all week long? A four year old that you can tell believes in what he is saying and when he misses his line, he has another Life Pieces brother to back him up. I have in the young men from LPTM. These young men will grow up and lead other young men.
I'm very thankful that LPTM has allowed me to be apart of there lives.
OK.....LOVE YOU, Lisa! Girl, you got me "teary eyed"! :) Thanks for checking us out andsharing your experience. Thismaysound abit selfish, but...let me tell ya....my LPTM apprentices havetransformed my life. Every day, there is something powerful thatI discover about myself through their eyes. So...."I feel ya, girl."
Congratulations on your successful work! When you write about the need for "A marketable curriculum and an effective web presence would contribute to our sustainability and replication.” I m encouraged because I find myself and organization in the same space. Have you begun to search for someone to help capture and document how you work? Once you have the curriculum in place do you plan on franchising/expanding your work? I would appreciate any input you'd have on this process and thank you for sharing your work!
Paul H. Miller
Founder & Chief Goof-Officer
CircEsteem
Thanks a bunch for your positive comments and interest in our curriculum development "journey". First, I have to say...that I ABSOLUTELY LOVE your title, "Chief Goof-Officer". :) LOVE it!lol Years ago when we were first started building Life Pieces To Masterpieces LPTM), both LPTM's Co-Founder and I STRUGGLED with the traditional titles "Executive Director", "Chief Executive Officer", "Chief Operating Officer".... At the end of the day, we broke down to the status quo, ...so..."High five"!:)
OK...LPTM's curriculum, we have already named, "LPTM Express", and we are piloting it at two See Forever Foundation/Maya Angelou Public Charter Schools sites (one site is in Oak Hill Youth Rehabilitation Center).We also are currently sharing our system nationally with Neighborworks (NW) America which is GREAT because we are working with a diverse group participants who attend the NW Community Learning Institutes and National Training Institutes.
About five years ago,a local foundation provided us with seed resources to begin the process of capturing our work. This was a good thing and did allow us to lay out a plan of action, however, the challenge is identifying the resources to implement the plan. First, my Board agreed that I needed time away from the day to day operations to work with an LPTM Express Curriculum Development Partnership. This year I will be researching possible fellowships/grants that would allow me to do this. In our plan, in addition to myself, this partnership would consist of the following: 1) Professional Curriculum Development Specialist; 2) A University; 3)Select group of LPTM Alumni and SeniorApprentices;4) Professional printing or publishing Company.
So....that's the plan for development. Now, in terms of franchising or expansion, It is not our intension to have a network of LPTM sites nationally or globally. We are more interested in simply sharing our methodology with individuals and human development groups that are currently engaged in this work as a supplement or tool to be used within the context of an existing mission and vision.
Yes Mary, It's all of me. I'm a person of very few words and only speak when it is really necessary. Up to now, I have listened to LPTM as much as possible to know what it was all about. I know that just looking at it should've told me a lot but there were hidden aspects which I needed to sought out myself. I'm still learning and having fun doing it. I intend to work more with the group this year and this should keep me focus on it's strategies.
Of course I love LPTM!! What were you thinking?!
Thanks a bunch for letting me be a part of Life Pieces to Masterpieces.
I consider myself fortunate to be associated with Life Pieces to Masterpieces. I have worked closely with many of the boys and young men of Life Pieces and have witnessed first-hand their passion for the program and unwavering dedication to its principles and purpose. They yearn to cultivate their worth in a community which (often times) suffocates their spirit and destroys their hope.
Executive Director, Mary Brown, has a perpetual commitment to those who look to her for caring, compassion and motivation. She is relentless in her belief that one’s potential is limited only by their desire and determination.
Through an innovative art technique of painting canvas, cutting it into various shapes, and sewing the pieces together, these boys and young men are able to use their creative abilities to tell of stifling life experiences and to uncover that which allows them to break free.
It is through their vision of change, certainty of promise, and belief in that which is possible that Life Pieces to Masterpieces continues to take on society’s challenges by offering effective, viable solutions. THE JOURNEY CONTINUES.
Life Pieces is one of the most inspirational organizations I have had the privilege to work with. Mary Brown and her dedicated staff truly work miracles for boys and young men in the must underserved areas of our nation's capitol. Life Pieces is more than an afterschool program, it is a community where participants can find love and acceptance. They learn critical principles of discipline, perseverance, leadership, and generosity that help to keep them in school, off drugs, and away from violence. Many of the boys and young men in the Life Pieces program have had their lives shattered by poverty, broken families, violence, substance abuse, and lack of access to adequate schools. Mary and her staff give boys and young men the opportunity to create new possiblities for their lives. They learn that they have choice in how they create their lives moving into the future, how they can take the pieces of their lives and create something wonderful....life pieces to masterpieces.
Mary - Words can not describe what you have created with LPTM. The loving environment, the innovative curriculum, and the artistic process that you enable allows the boys to rise above their challenges and find their gifts. I have been blessed to be a member of the Board and to work with you and the boys. There is no doubt that we need more organizations like yours. The art the boys make is priceless. The poetry they write is inspired. To hear their voices recite poetry in unison is moving. There is no brighter light in all of DC than the halls of Life Pieces.
Here is to making Life Pieces bigger and better!!!!
I think LPTM is a positive program because it help our young African American brothers to survive in life. About 9 years ago, I walked into LPTM with my brothers, Terry, Davon, Kaelin and my cousins, Antwann and Andre. I knew it was a program for boys but I was determined to keep coming back.
Today, I am in the 11th grade at Woodson Senior High School and I have a 4.0 grade point average and want to become a physician one day. I know that I have my family at LPTM to thank, Today, I am still the only girl and would like to thank LPTM for keeping the door open for me. They did not turn me away and this has made all the difference in my life.
After school, I have been trained to work at LPTM by helping in the office with attendance and assiting in the Warriors' Treehouse. LPTM Warriors' Treehouse are the little LPTM Apprentices from ages 3-6. I also play basketball, softball and tennis.
When I become a Doctor, I want to come back to LPTM and have a clinic that could help the LPTM apprentices stay healthy instead of having to go to emergency rooms all the time when they are sick. I know my family here at LPTM will keep supporting me until I realize my dream and I can't wait to be able to come back and give to a family that has given me so much.
Hi! I am Donnell Kie, a founding member of Life Pieces To Masterpieces. For the past twelve years it has been a pleasure to have such wonderful individuals from Life Pieces be a part of my life. Life Pieces to Masterpieces does not feel like an afterschool program to me at all. In fact, it has become a second family to me from day one. With the amont of exposure they have mad available to me, I have traveled to so many places: Atlanta, New Orleans, Philadelphia, New Yourk, Louisiana. LPTM also helped me join my school in going to London, Paris, Barcelona and so many more places. I have had a chance to meet visitors from Africa, Ireland, France and share the work we do here at LPTM. I have met and interacted with many different successful artists, entertainers, politicians, etc.
LPTM has not just done this for me, I have over 100 LPTM brothers who have the same opportunities if they work hard and strive to be "gentlemen, scholars, artists and atheletes". This is a pledge that every single LPTM Apprentice who turns 14 years old must take. I am in the 11th grade and and will definitely go to college.
I love LIfe Pieces to Masterpieces. I could not ask for a better program, a better family.
Hi, my name is Erica Wickem and I am a current volunteer of Life Pieces to Masterpieces. I attend George C. Marshall High School in Falls Church, Virginia. Life Pieces to Masterpices is one of the best organizations in D.C. From growing up in New Orleans, there was never these types of organizations for boys my age and older. I believe that Ms. Mary Brown is a wonderful mentor for these boys. My first day I was nervous because since LPTM is an all male organization, I was going to be the only girl. But, the boys were all really nice and opened-hearted. When you hear about boys in D.C., your first thoughts might be: drugs, alcohol, prison, etc. But, meeting these boys, all of your thoughts change. These boys want to achieve in life. They want to prove to other people that you can be successful no matter where you come from. And I believe in them. I now volunteer every weekend. I love spending time with the younger boys. You can see the passion in their eyes that they want to make their parents proud. They also want to make Ms. Mary proud. Ms. Mary has given them another chance. To be succesful in school, to not do drugs, to not hang with the wrong crowd, and to make smart decisions. Life Pieces is an all-around wonderful organization. And I hope it does well in the near future.
I am an epilepitec but I do get around. My life will be devoted to helping the brothers at LPTM. I believe the brothers at LPTM are pioneers of the next generation.
If you think about the concept of this organization, it goes far beyond often priceless works of art. Through the arts, this organization teaches young men that they are indeed the works of art. True LIFE pieces that can grow into Masterpieces through working on acheiving their own goals and becoming strong family members, brothers and sons---and contributing to the communities around them. Through these young men, art helps to change lives....not just their own but it has an immense ripple effect also on the neighborhoods they come from.
I worked in the summer program for the last two years and the most striking attribute of LPTM was the sense of family. Meals were often homecooked by Mrs. Curry and whenever Mary Brown spoke of the young men, they were "her boys". I am not sure Mary has even heard of a forty hour week as her entire day both physically and mentally is dedicated to "her boys". As you enter the program for the first time, the first person you meet whether he is only six years of age or sixteen years of age will greet you with a confident yet respectful "welcome to Life Pieces to Masterpieces. My name is brother -----". It is a remarkable program that produces quantitative results but never forgets the intangibles.
This organization is a life line for students who are often overlooked by the public school system. It is a vital, nurturing and confidence-boosting organization that yields positive results. Many of the boys who have gone through this program go on to pursue higher education which is vital to our survival as a society.
Life Pieces has had a tremendous impact on my family, in addition to having a huge impact on each of the boys who are participants in the program. Over the years I have watched young men go through the program, young men who may have otherwise been forgotten about, or had no hope, or or were otherwise victims of a system that doesn't prize them in the same way that other students might be prized. The transformation has been significant and meaningful.
Members of my family have worked for life pieces and though they have never been forgotten about, have reason to hope and have never been victims, what Life Pieces has shaped their own purpose and mission in life--it has provided an important opportunity to give of one's self to young men who need someone to pay a little bit of a attention to them....and the transformation in the those members of my families who have been employees there has been great. They have a greater purpose, a greater mission and are learning the importance of role modeling and giving to those who otherwise would go without.
Please give life pieces the grant--it will be money well spent and will help the organization continue to make a difference in the lives of all of those involved.
I have had the honor of watching LPTM evolve from nearly the beginning. As the organization has grown, it stays true to its mission and provides the boys and young men with tangible creative expression, positive male role models, safety, acceptance and love.
LPTM is a wonderful organization. I had the pleasure of watching LPTM members aged 3-18 chant positive messages that celebrated their dreams, creativity, contributions, community, and connection to others. It was such an uplifting experience seeing young boys and teenagers embrace their individuality and to share how they are empowered to overcome the challenges that life brings. This is just a quick snapshot of the wonders that Mary Brown and others achieve at LPTM.
Mary Brown is a very giving and strong woman who has opened her arms to a variety of youth even outside her organization. She did not hesitate to start a program with six teenage young men from a nearby charter school to teach them media literacy and to analyze how African American men are portrayed in the sports, news, music, video, and television media. Not only did Mary extend her support to these young men, but she has continued her partnership with the school and has always been a great resource when they need help or are trying to seek employment.
I think the reason why LPTM is so successful is because of the strength and kindess of those who founded the program and those who continue to uphold the mission. Their dedication, warmth, and generosity has inpired, transformed, and uplifted the young people who attend their program.
I think art for social change is one of the most positive forces for youth in the world today. I am inspired by LPTM and I hope it can continue to share its mission with others.
I would need at least 50 pages to talk about this wonderful organization. But since I don't have 50 pages I will just say - LPTMP is a grassroots community based organization that is making an enormous difference in the lives of inner city children and youth that otherwise would not even think about living pass the ripe old age of 21, complete a high school education; let alone aspire to attend and graduate from college. The program has been from what I have seen, first hand, a positive impact on the lives of children and youth that most people would have given up on. It is truly amazing. LPTMP led by Mary Brown and the dedicated staff treat these children and youth as their own. The connections they develop with them are compassionate and sincere and the children feel this. I am honored to know an organization of this caliber that does so many wonderful things, with so little, for the community in which they live - making things better for our youth in the nation’s capital.
Lifepieces to Masterpieces is an organization that is making a powerful change in the lives of young men who might otherwise be in prison, addicted to drugs, or out on the street. The intensive work her apprentices put in to guide, support, and help these young men provides incredible mentoring and learning opportunities. The exposure to leadership, self-healing through meditation and yoga, and creativity through the arts and language, build strong men from the inside out. Lifepieces is the best of what our country and its community nonprofits can be.
I am the recently retired Director of the International Monetary Fund's Civic Program, where we funded LPTM for several years. We were of course impressed by this unique program with positive results, but we were even more impressed with how this organization has done everything to implement best practices in their programs. Several years ago they hired an evalution team, (with a grant) to perform an audit of their program, and the team found that the standard evaluation tools did not fit the profile of this community, so the evaluators had to create a new measurement tool to evaluate this program. In fact, now this tool is being used in major urban cities throughout the country.
Mary Brown has reached out throughout a diverse community to get funding and in-kind help for LPTM and she has attending many capacity buillding seminars and joined many professional networking groups. Mary is a tireless crusader and I respect the work that she is doing to give these young men a better chance for a successful life.
Kathy DeBoe
Retired, IMF Civic Program
Currently, Office of Partnerships and Grants Development
D.C. Government
Having visited Life Pieces to Masterpieces, I am overwhelmed with your work with young men (and the suport you provide to their families). To be there and witness the program and the benefits derived from the innovative and committed staff is both moving and gratifying. The artwork is unique and inspiring, I applause your efforts and wish Life Pieces to Masterpieces continued success in all your endeavors. It was a pleasure to meet staff of your caliber.
I've seen presentations by the LPTM apprentices and spoken with many individual apprentices and have always been incredibly impressed by how mature, thoughtful and focused the apprentices are. These remarkable young men clearly demonstrate that they have emotional and interpersonal skills and drive to maximize their potential and to help those around them do the same. LPTM has an amazing impact on its participants and should be recognized for their extraordinary contributions. Keep up the good work!
I had the honor and pleasure of getting to know and working with Life Pieces during the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities UPSTART capacity building grant program in 2006. This is an extraordinary organization that has been carefully nurtured by the caring, passionate and visionary leadership of Mary Brown and her strong and committed staff and board. The DC community values and supports Life Pieces' transfomative work with the young men it serves -- here's to Life Pieces receiving the broad recognition that it so richly deserves for its important work!
I have had the priviledge of working with Life Pieces to Masterpieces given two diverse community grant initiatives, the Drug Prevention & Children at Risk Fund and the DC PLAY BLOCKS project. The talent and commitment demonstrated was outstanding. LPMP is a phenomenal creative haven for the young men in DC and it gives them the opportunity to shine and to share their talents with the world.
I first learned of the remarkable work of Life Pieces to Masterpieces (LPTM) about six years ago when I became manager of World Bank's Community Outreach programs, and I have been a supporter ever since. In the capital of the United States, male children of African American descent are subjected to a pain and fear that most of us in this city will never understand or experience. LPTM provides a home - a safety net - a place where they can learn to be strong and happy. It is magical to see the staff of LPTM, led by the incredible Mary Brown, nurture these children and provide them with the opportunity to create a powerful shield around themselves - a shield that will protect them and remind them they are good, productive people, deserving of everything.
Recently, I visited LPTM and met a young man (about 15 yrs old) - he read me a poem that moved me deeply. In this poem, he spoke of his fears, his dysfunctional environment and his desire to kill himself - he simply could not live with the pain of his life. If not for LPTM, where would this young man go? Where would he receive the love and nurturing, the alternatives in front of him? Rather than be judgemental of him, Mary and Ben and others kept him thinking about the possibilities and helping him learn to survive and overcome obstacles, high as they might be. That young man has now changed schools - he's doing well, I hear - and most importantly, he's alive because of LPTM.
LPTM art hangs in my office as a reminder of the power of these children to be change agents for themselves. I simply love to hear the laughter of LPTM kids!
I am a 8 year LPTM Senior Apprentice and my soul name is Brother Poet. I received my soul name about two years ago because I like creating poems.
LPTM has pointed my life in the right direction. I have been given great opportunities to travel different places and talk to peoplefrom all parts of the world about LPTM's purpose, premise,process,tool and principles.
I plan to go to college and become a professional writer/author. My goal is to go to Georgetown University. Everyday I come and mentor/tutor my LPTM little brothers. One day they will take my place and maybe follow in my footsteps.
Shout out to LPTM and all my brothers and brothers to be from around the world!
LPTM is a family to kids that been here for a long time. I've been here six years and I serve as a mentor to the younger LPTM Apprentices. LPTM elders have always been here helping me and my brothers in the times of need.
Last year I started making D's and F's. LPTM helped me get into another school and now I'm making A's and B's and am back on track to North Carolina Central College where I plan to major in English.
I want the whole world to learn about all that we do at LPTM! It doesn't matter where you are from, if you are a boy or young man who could use some help to know what direction you should go in life, LPTM can get you there.
Shout out to LPTM Mentors, apprentices,Elders,staff, kids and future kids who will come to or learn about Life Pieces!
I have had the privilege of working with Life Pieces to Masterpieces since their beginning in 1996. MY organization was one of the first funders of this group and we have been around since that time following this wonderful and dedicated group of young men led by Mary Brown. Since its becoming of age I have seen Life Pieces to Masterpieces demonstrate how in its work it is fast becoming a safe haven for the boys that are in its program. This group has an amazing impact on the community because it has struggled to use art as an alternative activity which impacts the human condition of African-American males residing in DC's low-income public housing community.
Since working at Life Pieces, I learned how to get better responses from children and how to step up and show leadership. I'm 18 years old and have only been here at LPTM for 3 months.
In that 3 months, not only have I seen different ways to handle negative situations, I learned how to avoid them all together.
I believe that what we do at LPTM can be used all around the world. The young, the old, male, female, really anybody who is human can learn from what we do here at LPTM.
Shout out to ALL the BROTHERS ALL AROUND THE WORLD!
I'm Jeremiah. My soul name is Brother Heart. Ben, one of LPTM's adult mentors gave me this name because I'm not afraid of anything.I have a lot of courage. I've been in Life Pieces for 6 yrs. and I've learned howto be more of a leader. I work with the younger kids and learning a lot of life lessons.
Shout out to Ms.Mary, "Sister Sunshine", for making this organization what it is now.
As a person who believes in Life Pieces To Masterpieces, I became aware of your incredible program 3 or 4 years ago. I asked the law firm where I work to start an internship program and it employed 3 LPTM apprentices over the summers of 2005 and 2006. The law firm committed to a two-year run and the internship program was a success. The apprentices from the LPTM program were enthusiastic, helpful, willing to work and an asset to LPTM. My employer hosted an art showcase to introduce works of art made by the apprentices of LPTM. I attended events held at The Smithsonian's Anacostia Museum where LPTM artwork was showcased, too. Having made unannounced visits to LPTM, I was impressed by what I saw and learned during the time that I was there. Mary Brown and Ben Johnson, just to name a couple of tireless workers, are very much committed to working on behalf of the young men of LPTM. I remain committed to LPTM's mission to help wherever help is needed. I am impressed by the tenacity of the staff and the commitment by the children to remain involved in the program despite other obstacles. I am encouraged by the simplicity of the program in that apprentices who were in the program get to serve as mentors to the younger program participants. LPTM is an excellent program and I believe in its mission and look forward to hearing many more wonderful stories about accomplishments of its participants.
Life Pieces is a good organization for people who want to become men. LPTM Mentors know how to train boys to be ready forthe outside world. I like learning how to become a strong black man. I am 12 and one day I want to be a mentor at LPTM. I will go to a 4 year college and then become a police officer and a construction worker.
The reason I want to become a police officer is to help people be safe and fight crime. I want to be a construction worker so that I can build a bunch of houses for all the people who don't have homes.
Its a nice afterschool program to come to so I can stay out of trouble and stay on the right path so that I can do great in my life. I like working in the office after school.
I still make mistakes but I know I can do better. No matter what I know LPTM will be here for me and I will be here for them.
Mary Brown has done an incredible job building LPTM into of of DCs most successful youth-service organizations. She's an inspiration to the rest of us in the field!
When I worked at Life Pieces during the summer, I began my commute from West Falls Church, where I was staying.
Around the Foggy Bottom Metro stop, things would get very crowded. But as we approached the Minnesota Avenue station, the numbers on the train would slowly dwindle. A bunch of people would get off at Metro Center. Another group would make their departure around Smithsonian or Eastern Market. But once I emerged from the tunnel, above ground, east of the river, I found myself in an empty car cabin. I sat alone, cruising past the gentrification projects, the liquor stores perched next to gray church buildings, all draped in a translucent sheet of noxious smoke that emanated from the belching smoke stacks of a large plant.
Everyone knows that Life Pieces to Masterpieces is phenomenal because of the artwork the organization has produced, or because of the success stories that it has created; the paintings and songs, over the years, have grown organically from the trials and triumphs of the young men of the program. However, it is easy to forget about Life Pieces' greatest achievement: in a crime-ridden world of hopelessness and utter despair, the founders and the boys of Life Pieces have managed to create a microcosm of love, expression, and life.
As human beings, we should do everything in our power to preserve and uplift that which promotes life and song over death.
Comentarios
Keith Ballard
I am an African-American male and I grew up in New Orleans' desire housing project and I can identify with these at risk young men involved in the Life's Pieces to Masterpieces program. your story and program inspires me to want to give more of myself to helping at risk young men. Keep up the good work and God has to bless you and your organization for your compassion.
Hey Keith!
Thanks soooo much for your kind words of encouragement. ....and you're from my hometown! That's REALLY GREAT! Yeah....Desire was "pretty intense" in my day as well, however, you have clearly translated your experiences into being the caring person you are today with a "desire" to help others. :) You know.....if you are truly inspired....then....just make yourself available. I know that's easier said than done. Quite frankly, YOU are DESPARATELY needed and if you can create time in your schedule to just share yourself with ONE young man, facing the challenges you have overcome, that, in and of itself, would be HUGE! I was just so happy to get our first comment, I haven't checked out World Youth Exposition yet! lol I'm about to do a little research now,as a matter of fact. Feel free to tell me more about your work with World Youth Exposition. It sounds interesting!
Again, thank you and PEACE!
Mary
You mention that your "boys stay in school, complete highschool, attend college, find jobs and become change agents." Can you please share a story about someone who has gone through this process?
Thanks
Dana Frasz
Changemakers
Hi Dana!
Thanks so much for this question! Allow me to tell you about Maurice Kie, a young man who literally grew up in Life Pieces To Masterpieces (LPTM), starting with us as one of the original seven apprentices at age 10 and is now 21 years old. Like most young men, growing up in Lincoln Heights Public Housing Projects in Washington, DC, Maurice was raised in a single parent household with his younger brother Donnell and mother, Ms. Jackie. Donnell was age 4, when he started coming to LPTM with his "BIG" brother, Maurice, and Donnell was also one of the initial seven LPTM Apprentices. Maurice was EXTREMELY quiet, withdrawn, and very quick to anger and physical aggression. A young boy learns early on how to "put on his full coat of armor" growing up in neighborhoods where gunshots and sirens are your lullabies and smiling a sign of weakness. Maurice had heard about LPTM from some of his friends in the neighborhood and encouraged his mom to allow him and his younger brother to attend.
Maurice came every day and began to bond with his fellow apprentices/peers and LPTM Mentors, all mentors "hand-picked" from his community and who could easily relate to Maurice, yet, provide him with opportunities to experience so many things that were unfamiliar to him through our signature 4-part process, i.e. Fine Arts, Standard English, positive decision-making, meditation, yoga, hiking, rock climbing etc. Long story short, Maurice is now a Sophomore at the University of The District of Columbia majoring in Elementary Education, serves on LPTM's Board of Directors, successfully interned at Hunton & Williams Law Firm and is a Senior Mentor responsible for training up and coming LPTM Mentors. Last year, Maurice founded "Generation for Change" (see www.lifepieces.org- Programs). Maurice is only one of LPTM's over 62 success stories and rising ever rapidly. The two videos posted on this application chronicle Maurice's journey. Donnell is equally successful (Google "Donnell Kie"). More on the way!
Since I have witnessed from its inception the powerful impact LPTM has had on the lives of young men, initially from Lincoln Heights and then throughout the District of Columbia, let me testify on your behalf. First, the majority of the African American young men whom you serve are viewed by too many in government and in the private sector as being "lost" and unsalvageable. I witnessed an elementary school principal who was astounded at LPTM's first art exhibit by the fact the some of her male students whose behavior kept them constantly suspended from school were able to clearly express themselves, collectively write and illustrate via paintings their poetry and to work effectively as a team. She became a steadfast supporter of your efforts and made sure you became a partner with her school. I have heard countless "thank you's" from mothers that LPTM saved sons whom they thought would become victims of the streets...sons that they had given-up on as being beyond thier control. I must also admit that I have been surprised on more than one occassion by the masterpieces that resulted from the extremely tatterd lives that you have touched. Your astounding success resulting from the consistent exposure of these young men to true agape love and the continuous validation of their potential and humanity has proved the skeptics wrong. The vast majority of your young men are thriving in a social and cultural environment that is killing and whithering the dreams, hopes and souls of others. Why? Because of your love for and faith in them. This is the true value of LPTM. It is a clear example of what can happen in a community, nation, world where love is tangibly evident. Miracles can occur and lifepieces can become masterspieces. Keep up your inspirational work. The information about LPTM you have shared on this site does not capture the true essence of your story. LPTM's "shield of faith" and its principles do. Share them.
Since I have witnessed from its inception the powerful impact LPTM has had on the lives of young men, initially from Lincoln Heights and then throughout the District of Columbia, let me testify on your behalf. First, the majority of the African American young men whom you serve are viewed by too many in government and in the private sector as being "lost" and unsalvageable. I witnessed an elementary school principal who was astounded at LPTM's first art exhibit by the fact the some of her male students whose behavior kept them constantly suspended from school were able to clearly express themselves, collectively write and illustrate via paintings their poetry and to work effectively as a team. She became a steadfast supporter of your efforts and made sure you became a partner with her school. I have heard countless "thank you's" from mothers that LPTM saved sons whom they thought would become victims of the streets...sons that they had given-up on as being beyond thier control. I must also admit that I have been surprised on more than one occassion by the masterpieces that resulted from the extremely tatterd lives that you have touched. Your astounding success resulting from the consistent exposure of these young men to true agape love and the continuous validation of their potential and humanity has proved the skeptics wrong. The vast majority of your young men are thriving in a social and cultural environment that is killing and whithering the dreams, hopes and souls of others. Why? Because of your love for and faith in them. This is the true value of LPTM. It is a clear example of what can happen in a community, nation, world where love is tangibly evident. Miracles can occur and lifepieces can become masterspieces. Keep up your inspirational work. The information about LPTM you have shared on this site does not capture the true essence of your story. LPTM's "shield of faith" and its principles do. Share them.
Thanks, Bob for sharing your experience with LPTM!
First, LPTM's "intension". It is our intention to create a safe, healthy, happy and peace-filled environment in which we can "submerge" the "thoughts, words and actions" of ALL LPTM Apprentices, families, Teen Mentors, Adult Mentors, Staff, Volunteers, Board of Directors and partners. We have found in youth development, practioners, with ease, throw around the statement "We want to EMPOWER youth!" "We must help young men and boys find their POWER".
After asking numerous new LPTM candidates, ages 12-21, "What is your POWER?" Their responses ranged from "Ma 9" (gun/weapon) to "Ma fists" to "money" to "how I please the ladies". It was clear to us that we, LPTM" had to create a curriculum that defines "POWER" for our apprentices and our definition is "My power consists of MY thoughts, MY words, MY actions which determine my destiny." We go on to define "thoughts" as "the stories" in a person's life. Stories that have been experienced, stories that have been told and those stories WE create.... It is AMAZING to see the light that turns on in our apprentices eyes when they understand the immense POWER of their very own thoughts! Using LPTM's 4 part Human Development System ( go to www.lifepieces.org) we lovingly guide them on the journey through their stories.
All of this is done in a culture of environment saturated with the "highest intentions" and vision of ourselves, our apprentices, their families and our environment. Our Shield of Faith, eventhough it could be easily confused with or assigned to a certain religious belief is actually a product of introspection of LPTM's two founders and is rooted in very universal concepts that permeate most belief systems. It is artistic and very scientific. It also will take more than 39 words for me to explain...lol! So..I will attempt to post another response to your comment explaining the Sheild in more detail.
LPTM's Shield of Faith is color coded similar to the color wheel, ie red complements green, orange complements blue, yellow complements purple, etc.
So...Red is "Spiritual Principles" We teach our boys about their "physical body", "emotional/feeling body" and their, "Peaceful body/brain". They learn that in order to achieve health, happiness and peace it is important to have basic universal beliefs that may come from various documents of religious beliefs, ie Bible, Koran, Talmud, Lotus Sutra, etc... or basic beliefs passed down to them verbally by their relatives, ie "what goes around comes around". On weekends, a number of our boys attend various places of worship with pre-screened and trained, LPTM Mentor families who welcome the boys in their homes on Saturdays and/or Sundays to spend time with them and learn about their spiritual beliefs and practices. Also, we teach the apprentices about spiritual beliefs of the world during program hours.
Red which is "spiritual principles" complements green which is "meditation". In order for our apprentices to connect with their thought patterns, we teach them how to be still, quite, examine their feelings which indicate thoght patterns. Through various types of meditation and yoga, the boys become aware of their innate ability to redirect their thoughts to create desirable outcomes in their lives.
Orange is "Loving" complements blue, "Giving". It's ok to say "I love you" as a male. "Love is the fruit of compassion". With "Giving" the apprentices learn about contributing to society, making a difference in the world. Yellow which is "Language" complements purple, "Arts". We embrace the colloquial dialects of our apprentices' culture and expose them to "Standard English", Sign Language and Spanish. We teach the importance of "body language". "Arts" is EVERYTHING! We are Creators! Here is our painting, drumming, poetry, prose - our stories!
As we apply all these values to our life, we get brown which is "discipline". It takes "discipline" to apply these values to our daily lives. All the values used in balance, yields "Black"/Leadership.
Since it's existence in 1996, Life Pieces To Masterpieces has been an organization of guidance for it's male youths in the Washington Lincoln Heights district and now throughout the Washington metropolitan area.
It has definitely been one of growth and maturity for our young men and benefited my course of action as well as changed my mine course of action. To watch LPTM's youths express themselves through their paintings, their politeness, their awareness of the positive aspects of life, their eagerness to satisfy others' views of their true intent and above all, their bonding with God; these and much more have brought me to the brink of knowing that I must share in the growth of our future resources. Through you Mary, and others who have worked with you, these young males have learned much. Their growth is astounding, their course is without end. LPTM shall continue to exist as long as there is a youth who cries out and touchs the heart that seeks fulfillment through a child regaining his true path in life.
Mary, you have done a great job. Your stamina, integrity and poise has made LPTM one of the number one sought after male youth centers in the District of Columbia. The work is challenging but the results are worth it.
Hey Ms. Susie!
I see you got your email up and working! CONGRATULATIONS and welcome to the "brave new world" of technology! You MUST REALLY LOVE Life Pieces! WOW! Ms. Susie, on email! I knew you could do it! Is this ALL you or did you get a little help from the grand babies ? lol ("lol" means laugh out loud/joking/ being funny).
Thank you soooo much for this.This TRULY means a lot!
Love you very, very much!
Peace
Mary
Having witnessed Life Pieces to Masterpieces' transformative power from its inception, one early experience never leaves my memory. Just before enrolling in LPTM, a young 11-year old boy living in the Lincoln Heights public housing development wrote this poem: "When I look in the sky, I still don't know why. When I fall on the ground, there's no one around. When I stand on my feet, there's noone to meet. When tears fall from my face, it feels like a deserted place." Later, as one of the first LPTM apprentices, this young man led a team of boys in creating a painting which they called "Born in Hell." Every word of his poem was depicted in this powerful artistic expression of the pain and desolation he felt inside. I watched then as LPTM countered that desolation with daily doses of deep love, nurturing, coaching and a framework of accountability and discipline. It allowed him to give voice to the pain inside through his own artistic talents, and to connect with other boys in a safe environment where he could gradually let go of the armour required to survive the streets of Lincoln Heights.
Another memory is of the LPTM apprentices (aged 4 to 12) leading off a meeting of a major Washington DC Planning Commission with one of their Community Arts Performances. These are not really arts performances as much as they are teaching sessions about life .....that is, the children teaching the adults about the "Shield of Faith" and its principles for living creatively, responsibly, lovingly, and productively. To hear a 6-year old boy describe such LPTM principles as "Love + Security + Expression = Life. And No Love + No Security + No Expression = Death" does something to an adult mind filled with biases about little black boys from Lincoln Heights. When the boys finished, one attendee said," Well now that these young men have reminded us of values we've often forgotten, we had better put them in practice!
Allie! Thanks sooo much for reviewing our entry. I feel like I'm in the "mutual admiration society"! lol! "You are wonderful!" "Noooo, YOU are EVEN MORE WONDERFUL...! Nooooo! lol :}
Yes, I know this young man that you are referencing. From my heart, I wish I could give a positive update, however, he is going through soooo much now. He was one of the original seven along with Moe and Donnell, however..."we lost our grip". The downward tide of this young man's life literally sucked him into the criminal justice system where he had spent, I would say...7 years of his life.
He reconnected with us a few months ago and ALL his LPTM brothers embraced him with LOVE and open arms. We spent two to three days together and invited him to "come back home". Allie, his eyes seemed empty, broken. We let him know that we are here for him and will ALWAYs be here and that we will daily send loving intentions in his direction during our meditation and envisioning. My hope is, ....no...I believe that he WILL choose a path of LIFE. ..and...Allie, I know that you will join us in that vision for this young man.
We teach our boys that Challenge + Compassion yields CREATIVITY. "Compassion" not being "charity" rather being a sense of connectedness, oneness to all human beings regardless of race, age, gender, sexual orientation...oneness with the environment, ie rivers, grass, trees, soil... So...when confronted with adversity, our young men learn how to consider solutions that involve the highest good of ALL.
Quite frankly we are not necessarily interested in creating a group of young men "going from Harlem to Harvard" or "The projects to Princeton"! Don't get me wrong. That WOULD be GREAT and in this next class of LPTM H.S. Juniors, we may have a few Ivy Leaguers! We care about young men who are WISE "Knowledge +compassion". It is such wisdom that can lead us from war to PEACE.
I first saw the young men from Life Pieces to Master Pieces three years ago and I've been inspired every since. What do you say about an organization who takes negative and turns it into positive? An organization who finds that bright spot on the worst of days. Being around Life Pieces has taught me to be a better person, even better LPTM has made me want to be a better person.
Have you ever seen a four year old speak with such a presence that it stays with you all week long? A four year old that you can tell believes in what he is saying and when he misses his line, he has another Life Pieces brother to back him up. I have in the young men from LPTM. These young men will grow up and lead other young men.
I'm very thankful that LPTM has allowed me to be apart of there lives.
Lisa Jones
OK.....LOVE YOU, Lisa! Girl, you got me "teary eyed"! :) Thanks for checking us out andsharing your experience. Thismaysound abit selfish, but...let me tell ya....my LPTM apprentices havetransformed my life. Every day, there is something powerful thatI discover about myself through their eyes. So...."I feel ya, girl."
Peace
Mary
Congratulations on your successful work! When you write about the need for "A marketable curriculum and an effective web presence would contribute to our sustainability and replication.” I m encouraged because I find myself and organization in the same space. Have you begun to search for someone to help capture and document how you work? Once you have the curriculum in place do you plan on franchising/expanding your work? I would appreciate any input you'd have on this process and thank you for sharing your work!
Paul H. Miller
Founder & Chief Goof-Officer
CircEsteem
Hey Paul!
Thanks a bunch for your positive comments and interest in our curriculum development "journey". First, I have to say...that I ABSOLUTELY LOVE your title, "Chief Goof-Officer". :) LOVE it!lol Years ago when we were first started building Life Pieces To Masterpieces LPTM), both LPTM's Co-Founder and I STRUGGLED with the traditional titles "Executive Director", "Chief Executive Officer", "Chief Operating Officer".... At the end of the day, we broke down to the status quo, ...so..."High five"!:)
OK...LPTM's curriculum, we have already named, "LPTM Express", and we are piloting it at two See Forever Foundation/Maya Angelou Public Charter Schools sites (one site is in Oak Hill Youth Rehabilitation Center).We also are currently sharing our system nationally with Neighborworks (NW) America which is GREAT because we are working with a diverse group participants who attend the NW Community Learning Institutes and National Training Institutes.
About five years ago,a local foundation provided us with seed resources to begin the process of capturing our work. This was a good thing and did allow us to lay out a plan of action, however, the challenge is identifying the resources to implement the plan. First, my Board agreed that I needed time away from the day to day operations to work with an LPTM Express Curriculum Development Partnership. This year I will be researching possible fellowships/grants that would allow me to do this. In our plan, in addition to myself, this partnership would consist of the following: 1) Professional Curriculum Development Specialist; 2) A University; 3)Select group of LPTM Alumni and SeniorApprentices;4) Professional printing or publishing Company.
So....that's the plan for development. Now, in terms of franchising or expansion, It is not our intension to have a network of LPTM sites nationally or globally. We are more interested in simply sharing our methodology with individuals and human development groups that are currently engaged in this work as a supplement or tool to be used within the context of an existing mission and vision.
Yes Mary, It's all of me. I'm a person of very few words and only speak when it is really necessary. Up to now, I have listened to LPTM as much as possible to know what it was all about. I know that just looking at it should've told me a lot but there were hidden aspects which I needed to sought out myself. I'm still learning and having fun doing it. I intend to work more with the group this year and this should keep me focus on it's strategies.
Of course I love LPTM!! What were you thinking?!
Thanks a bunch for letting me be a part of Life Pieces to Masterpieces.
Susie
I consider myself fortunate to be associated with Life Pieces to Masterpieces. I have worked closely with many of the boys and young men of Life Pieces and have witnessed first-hand their passion for the program and unwavering dedication to its principles and purpose. They yearn to cultivate their worth in a community which (often times) suffocates their spirit and destroys their hope.
Executive Director, Mary Brown, has a perpetual commitment to those who look to her for caring, compassion and motivation. She is relentless in her belief that one’s potential is limited only by their desire and determination.
Through an innovative art technique of painting canvas, cutting it into various shapes, and sewing the pieces together, these boys and young men are able to use their creative abilities to tell of stifling life experiences and to uncover that which allows them to break free.
It is through their vision of change, certainty of promise, and belief in that which is possible that Life Pieces to Masterpieces continues to take on society’s challenges by offering effective, viable solutions. THE JOURNEY CONTINUES.
Life Pieces is one of the most inspirational organizations I have had the privilege to work with. Mary Brown and her dedicated staff truly work miracles for boys and young men in the must underserved areas of our nation's capitol. Life Pieces is more than an afterschool program, it is a community where participants can find love and acceptance. They learn critical principles of discipline, perseverance, leadership, and generosity that help to keep them in school, off drugs, and away from violence. Many of the boys and young men in the Life Pieces program have had their lives shattered by poverty, broken families, violence, substance abuse, and lack of access to adequate schools. Mary and her staff give boys and young men the opportunity to create new possiblities for their lives. They learn that they have choice in how they create their lives moving into the future, how they can take the pieces of their lives and create something wonderful....life pieces to masterpieces.
Mary - Words can not describe what you have created with LPTM. The loving environment, the innovative curriculum, and the artistic process that you enable allows the boys to rise above their challenges and find their gifts. I have been blessed to be a member of the Board and to work with you and the boys. There is no doubt that we need more organizations like yours. The art the boys make is priceless. The poetry they write is inspired. To hear their voices recite poetry in unison is moving. There is no brighter light in all of DC than the halls of Life Pieces.
Here is to making Life Pieces bigger and better!!!!
I think LPTM is a positive program because it help our young African American brothers to survive in life. About 9 years ago, I walked into LPTM with my brothers, Terry, Davon, Kaelin and my cousins, Antwann and Andre. I knew it was a program for boys but I was determined to keep coming back.
Today, I am in the 11th grade at Woodson Senior High School and I have a 4.0 grade point average and want to become a physician one day. I know that I have my family at LPTM to thank, Today, I am still the only girl and would like to thank LPTM for keeping the door open for me. They did not turn me away and this has made all the difference in my life.
After school, I have been trained to work at LPTM by helping in the office with attendance and assiting in the Warriors' Treehouse. LPTM Warriors' Treehouse are the little LPTM Apprentices from ages 3-6. I also play basketball, softball and tennis.
When I become a Doctor, I want to come back to LPTM and have a clinic that could help the LPTM apprentices stay healthy instead of having to go to emergency rooms all the time when they are sick. I know my family here at LPTM will keep supporting me until I realize my dream and I can't wait to be able to come back and give to a family that has given me so much.
Giving a shout out to my LPTM family! I love you!
Love always,
Memo
Hi! I am Donnell Kie, a founding member of Life Pieces To Masterpieces. For the past twelve years it has been a pleasure to have such wonderful individuals from Life Pieces be a part of my life. Life Pieces to Masterpieces does not feel like an afterschool program to me at all. In fact, it has become a second family to me from day one. With the amont of exposure they have mad available to me, I have traveled to so many places: Atlanta, New Orleans, Philadelphia, New Yourk, Louisiana. LPTM also helped me join my school in going to London, Paris, Barcelona and so many more places. I have had a chance to meet visitors from Africa, Ireland, France and share the work we do here at LPTM. I have met and interacted with many different successful artists, entertainers, politicians, etc.
LPTM has not just done this for me, I have over 100 LPTM brothers who have the same opportunities if they work hard and strive to be "gentlemen, scholars, artists and atheletes". This is a pledge that every single LPTM Apprentice who turns 14 years old must take. I am in the 11th grade and and will definitely go to college.
I love LIfe Pieces to Masterpieces. I could not ask for a better program, a better family.
SHOUT OUT! "I LOVE Life Pieces To Masterpieces!"
Hi, my name is Erica Wickem and I am a current volunteer of Life Pieces to Masterpieces. I attend George C. Marshall High School in Falls Church, Virginia. Life Pieces to Masterpices is one of the best organizations in D.C. From growing up in New Orleans, there was never these types of organizations for boys my age and older. I believe that Ms. Mary Brown is a wonderful mentor for these boys. My first day I was nervous because since LPTM is an all male organization, I was going to be the only girl. But, the boys were all really nice and opened-hearted. When you hear about boys in D.C., your first thoughts might be: drugs, alcohol, prison, etc. But, meeting these boys, all of your thoughts change. These boys want to achieve in life. They want to prove to other people that you can be successful no matter where you come from. And I believe in them. I now volunteer every weekend. I love spending time with the younger boys. You can see the passion in their eyes that they want to make their parents proud. They also want to make Ms. Mary proud. Ms. Mary has given them another chance. To be succesful in school, to not do drugs, to not hang with the wrong crowd, and to make smart decisions. Life Pieces is an all-around wonderful organization. And I hope it does well in the near future.
I am an epilepitec but I do get around. My life will be devoted to helping the brothers at LPTM. I believe the brothers at LPTM are pioneers of the next generation.
If you think about the concept of this organization, it goes far beyond often priceless works of art. Through the arts, this organization teaches young men that they are indeed the works of art. True LIFE pieces that can grow into Masterpieces through working on acheiving their own goals and becoming strong family members, brothers and sons---and contributing to the communities around them. Through these young men, art helps to change lives....not just their own but it has an immense ripple effect also on the neighborhoods they come from.
I worked in the summer program for the last two years and the most striking attribute of LPTM was the sense of family. Meals were often homecooked by Mrs. Curry and whenever Mary Brown spoke of the young men, they were "her boys". I am not sure Mary has even heard of a forty hour week as her entire day both physically and mentally is dedicated to "her boys". As you enter the program for the first time, the first person you meet whether he is only six years of age or sixteen years of age will greet you with a confident yet respectful "welcome to Life Pieces to Masterpieces. My name is brother -----". It is a remarkable program that produces quantitative results but never forgets the intangibles.
This is an organization that lives up to its name. It recognizes that a life is masterpiece if shaped properly.
This organization is a life line for students who are often overlooked by the public school system. It is a vital, nurturing and confidence-boosting organization that yields positive results. Many of the boys who have gone through this program go on to pursue higher education which is vital to our survival as a society.
Life Pieces has had a tremendous impact on my family, in addition to having a huge impact on each of the boys who are participants in the program. Over the years I have watched young men go through the program, young men who may have otherwise been forgotten about, or had no hope, or or were otherwise victims of a system that doesn't prize them in the same way that other students might be prized. The transformation has been significant and meaningful.
Members of my family have worked for life pieces and though they have never been forgotten about, have reason to hope and have never been victims, what Life Pieces has shaped their own purpose and mission in life--it has provided an important opportunity to give of one's self to young men who need someone to pay a little bit of a attention to them....and the transformation in the those members of my families who have been employees there has been great. They have a greater purpose, a greater mission and are learning the importance of role modeling and giving to those who otherwise would go without.
Please give life pieces the grant--it will be money well spent and will help the organization continue to make a difference in the lives of all of those involved.
I have had the honor of watching LPTM evolve from nearly the beginning. As the organization has grown, it stays true to its mission and provides the boys and young men with tangible creative expression, positive male role models, safety, acceptance and love.
LPTM is a wonderful organization. I had the pleasure of watching LPTM members aged 3-18 chant positive messages that celebrated their dreams, creativity, contributions, community, and connection to others. It was such an uplifting experience seeing young boys and teenagers embrace their individuality and to share how they are empowered to overcome the challenges that life brings. This is just a quick snapshot of the wonders that Mary Brown and others achieve at LPTM.
Mary Brown is a very giving and strong woman who has opened her arms to a variety of youth even outside her organization. She did not hesitate to start a program with six teenage young men from a nearby charter school to teach them media literacy and to analyze how African American men are portrayed in the sports, news, music, video, and television media. Not only did Mary extend her support to these young men, but she has continued her partnership with the school and has always been a great resource when they need help or are trying to seek employment.
I think the reason why LPTM is so successful is because of the strength and kindess of those who founded the program and those who continue to uphold the mission. Their dedication, warmth, and generosity has inpired, transformed, and uplifted the young people who attend their program.
I think art for social change is one of the most positive forces for youth in the world today. I am inspired by LPTM and I hope it can continue to share its mission with others.
I would need at least 50 pages to talk about this wonderful organization. But since I don't have 50 pages I will just say - LPTMP is a grassroots community based organization that is making an enormous difference in the lives of inner city children and youth that otherwise would not even think about living pass the ripe old age of 21, complete a high school education; let alone aspire to attend and graduate from college. The program has been from what I have seen, first hand, a positive impact on the lives of children and youth that most people would have given up on. It is truly amazing. LPTMP led by Mary Brown and the dedicated staff treat these children and youth as their own. The connections they develop with them are compassionate and sincere and the children feel this. I am honored to know an organization of this caliber that does so many wonderful things, with so little, for the community in which they live - making things better for our youth in the nation’s capital.
Lifepieces to Masterpieces is an organization that is making a powerful change in the lives of young men who might otherwise be in prison, addicted to drugs, or out on the street. The intensive work her apprentices put in to guide, support, and help these young men provides incredible mentoring and learning opportunities. The exposure to leadership, self-healing through meditation and yoga, and creativity through the arts and language, build strong men from the inside out. Lifepieces is the best of what our country and its community nonprofits can be.
I am the recently retired Director of the International Monetary Fund's Civic Program, where we funded LPTM for several years. We were of course impressed by this unique program with positive results, but we were even more impressed with how this organization has done everything to implement best practices in their programs. Several years ago they hired an evalution team, (with a grant) to perform an audit of their program, and the team found that the standard evaluation tools did not fit the profile of this community, so the evaluators had to create a new measurement tool to evaluate this program. In fact, now this tool is being used in major urban cities throughout the country.
Mary Brown has reached out throughout a diverse community to get funding and in-kind help for LPTM and she has attending many capacity buillding seminars and joined many professional networking groups. Mary is a tireless crusader and I respect the work that she is doing to give these young men a better chance for a successful life.
Kathy DeBoe
Retired, IMF Civic Program
Currently, Office of Partnerships and Grants Development
D.C. Government
Having visited Life Pieces to Masterpieces, I am overwhelmed with your work with young men (and the suport you provide to their families). To be there and witness the program and the benefits derived from the innovative and committed staff is both moving and gratifying. The artwork is unique and inspiring, I applause your efforts and wish Life Pieces to Masterpieces continued success in all your endeavors. It was a pleasure to meet staff of your caliber.
I've seen presentations by the LPTM apprentices and spoken with many individual apprentices and have always been incredibly impressed by how mature, thoughtful and focused the apprentices are. These remarkable young men clearly demonstrate that they have emotional and interpersonal skills and drive to maximize their potential and to help those around them do the same. LPTM has an amazing impact on its participants and should be recognized for their extraordinary contributions. Keep up the good work!
I had the honor and pleasure of getting to know and working with Life Pieces during the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities UPSTART capacity building grant program in 2006. This is an extraordinary organization that has been carefully nurtured by the caring, passionate and visionary leadership of Mary Brown and her strong and committed staff and board. The DC community values and supports Life Pieces' transfomative work with the young men it serves -- here's to Life Pieces receiving the broad recognition that it so richly deserves for its important work!
I have had the priviledge of working with Life Pieces to Masterpieces given two diverse community grant initiatives, the Drug Prevention & Children at Risk Fund and the DC PLAY BLOCKS project. The talent and commitment demonstrated was outstanding. LPMP is a phenomenal creative haven for the young men in DC and it gives them the opportunity to shine and to share their talents with the world.
I first learned of the remarkable work of Life Pieces to Masterpieces (LPTM) about six years ago when I became manager of World Bank's Community Outreach programs, and I have been a supporter ever since. In the capital of the United States, male children of African American descent are subjected to a pain and fear that most of us in this city will never understand or experience. LPTM provides a home - a safety net - a place where they can learn to be strong and happy. It is magical to see the staff of LPTM, led by the incredible Mary Brown, nurture these children and provide them with the opportunity to create a powerful shield around themselves - a shield that will protect them and remind them they are good, productive people, deserving of everything.
Recently, I visited LPTM and met a young man (about 15 yrs old) - he read me a poem that moved me deeply. In this poem, he spoke of his fears, his dysfunctional environment and his desire to kill himself - he simply could not live with the pain of his life. If not for LPTM, where would this young man go? Where would he receive the love and nurturing, the alternatives in front of him? Rather than be judgemental of him, Mary and Ben and others kept him thinking about the possibilities and helping him learn to survive and overcome obstacles, high as they might be. That young man has now changed schools - he's doing well, I hear - and most importantly, he's alive because of LPTM.
LPTM art hangs in my office as a reminder of the power of these children to be change agents for themselves. I simply love to hear the laughter of LPTM kids!
I am a 8 year LPTM Senior Apprentice and my soul name is Brother Poet. I received my soul name about two years ago because I like creating poems.
LPTM has pointed my life in the right direction. I have been given great opportunities to travel different places and talk to peoplefrom all parts of the world about LPTM's purpose, premise,process,tool and principles.
I plan to go to college and become a professional writer/author. My goal is to go to Georgetown University. Everyday I come and mentor/tutor my LPTM little brothers. One day they will take my place and maybe follow in my footsteps.
Shout out to LPTM and all my brothers and brothers to be from around the world!
LPTM is a family to kids that been here for a long time. I've been here six years and I serve as a mentor to the younger LPTM Apprentices. LPTM elders have always been here helping me and my brothers in the times of need.
Last year I started making D's and F's. LPTM helped me get into another school and now I'm making A's and B's and am back on track to North Carolina Central College where I plan to major in English.
I want the whole world to learn about all that we do at LPTM! It doesn't matter where you are from, if you are a boy or young man who could use some help to know what direction you should go in life, LPTM can get you there.
Shout out to LPTM Mentors, apprentices,Elders,staff, kids and future kids who will come to or learn about Life Pieces!
I have had the privilege of working with Life Pieces to Masterpieces since their beginning in 1996. MY organization was one of the first funders of this group and we have been around since that time following this wonderful and dedicated group of young men led by Mary Brown. Since its becoming of age I have seen Life Pieces to Masterpieces demonstrate how in its work it is fast becoming a safe haven for the boys that are in its program. This group has an amazing impact on the community because it has struggled to use art as an alternative activity which impacts the human condition of African-American males residing in DC's low-income public housing community.
Since working at Life Pieces, I learned how to get better responses from children and how to step up and show leadership. I'm 18 years old and have only been here at LPTM for 3 months.
In that 3 months, not only have I seen different ways to handle negative situations, I learned how to avoid them all together.
I believe that what we do at LPTM can be used all around the world. The young, the old, male, female, really anybody who is human can learn from what we do here at LPTM.
Shout out to ALL the BROTHERS ALL AROUND THE WORLD!
I'm Jeremiah. My soul name is Brother Heart. Ben, one of LPTM's adult mentors gave me this name because I'm not afraid of anything.I have a lot of courage. I've been in Life Pieces for 6 yrs. and I've learned howto be more of a leader. I work with the younger kids and learning a lot of life lessons.
Shout out to Ms.Mary, "Sister Sunshine", for making this organization what it is now.
As a person who believes in Life Pieces To Masterpieces, I became aware of your incredible program 3 or 4 years ago. I asked the law firm where I work to start an internship program and it employed 3 LPTM apprentices over the summers of 2005 and 2006. The law firm committed to a two-year run and the internship program was a success. The apprentices from the LPTM program were enthusiastic, helpful, willing to work and an asset to LPTM. My employer hosted an art showcase to introduce works of art made by the apprentices of LPTM. I attended events held at The Smithsonian's Anacostia Museum where LPTM artwork was showcased, too. Having made unannounced visits to LPTM, I was impressed by what I saw and learned during the time that I was there. Mary Brown and Ben Johnson, just to name a couple of tireless workers, are very much committed to working on behalf of the young men of LPTM. I remain committed to LPTM's mission to help wherever help is needed. I am impressed by the tenacity of the staff and the commitment by the children to remain involved in the program despite other obstacles. I am encouraged by the simplicity of the program in that apprentices who were in the program get to serve as mentors to the younger program participants. LPTM is an excellent program and I believe in its mission and look forward to hearing many more wonderful stories about accomplishments of its participants.
LPTM is a home away from home. It teaches you more about life. It makes you feel better about yourself and helps you love one another.
I would like to go to Africa to teach teenagers what I have learned here at LPTM. I would also like to learn from teenagers in Africa.
Shout out to Life Pieces
Life Pieces is a good organization for people who want to become men. LPTM Mentors know how to train boys to be ready forthe outside world. I like learning how to become a strong black man. I am 12 and one day I want to be a mentor at LPTM. I will go to a 4 year college and then become a police officer and a construction worker.
The reason I want to become a police officer is to help people be safe and fight crime. I want to be a construction worker so that I can build a bunch of houses for all the people who don't have homes.
Its a nice afterschool program to come to so I can stay out of trouble and stay on the right path so that I can do great in my life. I like working in the office after school.
I still make mistakes but I know I can do better. No matter what I know LPTM will be here for me and I will be here for them.
Mary Brown has done an incredible job building LPTM into of of DCs most successful youth-service organizations. She's an inspiration to the rest of us in the field!
When I worked at Life Pieces during the summer, I began my commute from West Falls Church, where I was staying.
Around the Foggy Bottom Metro stop, things would get very crowded. But as we approached the Minnesota Avenue station, the numbers on the train would slowly dwindle. A bunch of people would get off at Metro Center. Another group would make their departure around Smithsonian or Eastern Market. But once I emerged from the tunnel, above ground, east of the river, I found myself in an empty car cabin. I sat alone, cruising past the gentrification projects, the liquor stores perched next to gray church buildings, all draped in a translucent sheet of noxious smoke that emanated from the belching smoke stacks of a large plant.
Everyone knows that Life Pieces to Masterpieces is phenomenal because of the artwork the organization has produced, or because of the success stories that it has created; the paintings and songs, over the years, have grown organically from the trials and triumphs of the young men of the program. However, it is easy to forget about Life Pieces' greatest achievement: in a crime-ridden world of hopelessness and utter despair, the founders and the boys of Life Pieces have managed to create a microcosm of love, expression, and life.
As human beings, we should do everything in our power to preserve and uplift that which promotes life and song over death.
Enviar un comentario nuevo