For ten years, the Mentor Every Neighborhood and Community (MENAC) nonprofit organization has partnered with Onslow County Learning Center (OCLC) and has provided unwavering support to the students and families. OCLC’s student population is 100% At-Risk and is a dropout prevention program. The mentors provide opportunities that expose our students to culturally diverse venues and circumstances that expand their mindsets and encourage them to seek more mature and appropriate decisions while broadening their scope of possibilities. At their weekly mentoring sessions, middle and high school aged students are coached on life skills, goal setting, good citizenship, searching and applying for jobs, and how to best present themselves. The students earn the opportunity to participate in a variety of field trips including but not limited to museums, tours of Camp Lejeune, visits to different colleges and universities, athletic events, and team building activities like bowling which reinforces appropriate social behavior. In addition to meeting with the students on campus, MENAC also goes above and beyond to meet the needs of the individual students and their families outside of school. They work with our students’ families by going into the home and providing tools that strengthen parenting skills and relationship building. They stay readily accessible to our students and families. The mentors also visit our students while they are placed in detention centers and work with them to get reacclimated to their normal lifestyles once they are released back into their homes. They provide individual and group counseling. Furthermore, MENAC meets with our students’ home school administration and acts as additional resources for our students once they return to their home school. Additionally, MENAC provides support for our students who are involved with the judicial system and accompany them on court appointed dates. MENAC is instrumental in servicing the youth in our school and the surrounding community. They are committed to providing quality services to help address the needs of youth and families at Onslow County Learning Center.
MENAC is truly amazing! I started volunteering a few months ago and have helped with things such as mentoring kids and assisting wherever I can for the organization, and am blown away with all of the opportunities they’re able to provide for not only the children, but everyone involved! It’s truly a blessing to see what all came come from a strong network of people who are passionate and like-minded when it comes to better serving their community and the kids!
My name is Bashar Al-Janabi, 19, a rising sophomore and political science major at UNCG. I initially had no desire to be mentored. Mr. Mario came to my home 5 years ago at my mother's request, but I declined at first, projecting my insecurities about not having a father in the home. I claimed, "I did not need a mentor," believing I could manage without a father figure. However, I now realize I wouldn't be who I am today without MENAC.
After 4-5 years as a mentee, I grew naturally into a youth mentor. MENAC has inspired me to keep developing. My ability to read and respond to new situations and experiences has improved thanks to mentors, who have also helped me gain a better understanding of myself and other people.
This had a significant impact on my desire to work primarily with juveniles and families in my future career as a lawyer. I hope to use my legal expertise and mentoring skills to rehabilitate families, advance MENAC, and uplift the next generation.
MENAC is by far one of the best Mentoring organization around. Why? Because it’s not just about the individuals they mentor, it’s about how what they do impacts the community. Whether through the child, the parent, the schools or the community, MENAC provides each entity and the collective the tools they need in order to be successful in their endeavors. From the founding members to each volunteer that supports their mission, MENAC strives to be the beacon of support that every neighborhood and community can count on. May they continue to be a blessing to all they come in contact with.
My experience came as a volunteer mentor. After retirement from the military I wanted to give back what my life and life in the military had given me when it comes to interacting with people, no matter the race, gender, age or profession. I knew that I wanted to mentor kids during my time as an employee with Onslow County Schools.
When I decided to go forward I went on line and completed a mentoring certification. Shortly there after I decided to look into start mentoring, as I did my research and found out it was not going to be easy and very difficult to do alone. By the grace of God as I was volunteering with a Pastor I was introduced to MENAC's founder and I tell you I was so thankful that this organization existed. My time with them has been very eye opening and how so needed this nonprofit is needed in all communities in Onslow county. I am looking forward to what the future holds for this nonprofit organization and the volunteers that give their time to make every community better.
Very good program I think the program helps me get back to the community what the community gave to me as far as a neighborhood as far as a Family as far as a Church very good awesome brothers to work with
I love mentoring because the most important mentoring I ever received came from my parents. So I’m always eager to share some of the knowledge I received from them with others who are willing to listen. MENAC is a great organization to help with this.
Menac, Inc is an Outstanding organization who's focus is on underserved youth in the community or those that have given up on themselves. Mentoring services and building family relationships are important and this organization cares about the root cause not just finding a bandage for a quick fix. It is an honor to be a part of an organization who cares about the future of our youth.
In health & happiness,
Vernita Stevens
www.2p-llc.com
MENAC is one awesome and effective Mentoring Organization. Helping students and young adults better their lives and their future. They are truly making a difference in the lives of our youth.
Our first collaboration with MENAC was in our 1st ANNUAL YOUTH BASKETBALL CAMP for the city of San Deigo, CA. The camp was very successful and impactful for everyone involved and we were able to get Dunkin Donuts sponsored for all campers through the MENAC and their organization!
MENAC is a great outlet for young teenagers in the entire state of North Carolina and they consistently provides positive relationships with K-12 children. Based on our relationship and experience with Mario Harris (CEO OF MENAC.) and his organization, we have always been greeted with respect, professionalism and genuineness. Anywho who could use their services should highly consider doing so because the amount of kids who are being impacted and given opportunities to a better way of life is continuing to thrive!
Thank you MENAC for all you do in the community!
Thorough Deposits Enterprises
It has been a pleasure over the past few years to witness the impact this organization has had on the youth Jacksonville, NC. Many times, youth in underserved communities do not have access to world-class resources or an abundance of positive role models. Menac, Inc. partners with educators, community leaders, and families to enhance their education experience, improve their chances for success, and quite simply create hope. I have supported this organization in numerous ways and I am looking forward to increasing my support through an annual donation. I believe if we are going to make positive change on a global scale, it starts with the youth and Menac, Inc. is doing just that!
Mario P. Fields
Founder at Still Serving, Inc.
MENAC Non plays a fundamental role in creating more equitable and thriving communities. I have watched MENAC do this by coming together to protect both the communities legacy and its indispensable role in America’s future. I have watched how MENAC fosters civic engagement and leadership, drives economic growth, and strengthens the fabric of our communities. Every single day.
Every person in the United States benefits from the work of MENAC in one way or another, whether they realize it or not.
I have had an opportunity to serve with the most Caring, Selfless and Loving men and women as a member of MENAC. To commit your time sacrifially to mentor young men and women effectively one must have not only the heart but, also the desire to shape our country's next leaders. The time and effort witnessed publicly through mentoring doesn't compare to the efforts behind the scene. MENAC Leadership is comprised of professional men and women with the Wisdom, Knowledge and Understanding to influence by their own example the next generation of leaders. I have witnessed the power of disciplined and positive mentoring evidence by the change in attitude of those mentored. MENAC has poured into me as well and continues to be Blessing as I am privileged to serve with such an Elite Team. Bob Tucker, MGySgt, USMC/-Ret
Every time Mr. Harris and I met up I always learned something and I can’t thank him enough for everything he’s done for me
This is a wonderful organization for youth and families. It helps young people develop career goals and future focus for their lives.
This non-profit offers several skills to help families grew, create a deeper bond, and bestows positive opportunities that may not have been available before having an relationship with this organization. Due to the hands-on experience, and leadership conveyed by leaders of this non-profit, there is no doubt they are not equipped with the proper tools to successfully impact others life!
MENAC has been a awesome addition to the Jacksonville, NC community helping the youth. Mr. Mario Harris and his team have been heavily involved in the future of the youth in having a successful career. MENAC is goal in helping the youth and also spreading the gospel ministry to them is much needed to help them better citizens for any community. I recommend any parent to use MENAC has a additional resource to help their child!
I have seen what Mario and his team member do to help the youth . Learn from their mistakes . No one is perfect but with help.
Things can change and that is what they are doing . Thank you
My name is Dr. Verlando (Lee) Frazier. As a retired Marine Master Sergeant, I am more than accustomed to 'mission accomplishment.' MENAC certainly accomplishes its mission of making a positive difference in the Jacksonville, NC, Onslow county community on a daily basis-especially for those participants (students) who live in under-served areas. It's cadre of experienced, caring, and mature mentors provide instruction on such topics such as, character development, goal-setting, high school completion, college (academic and vocational) admission requirements, and mathematics tutoring. MENAC is a awesome Non-profit that's making a huge difference on the youth (mentees), their families, and community for countless generations to come!
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At this point I feel deeply connected and passionate about MENAC Inc. Since it's inception this community based nonprofit institution has made a major positive difference in the lives of young men and women, especially those who dwell in the under served areas of Onslow county and surrounding areas. MENAC's technique of community engagement has has a major impact on the end goal of supporting its mission statement and making this community, where I currently reside, a better place to live. Please keep up the great work!! Verlando Lee Frazier
This organization is changing lives one child at a time!!! The determination and genuine care they exhibit is seldom found in mentoring organizations. This team is laser focused on helping produce successful, caring, productive citizens. Every young person they encounter is better for it. I personally know of at least one success story: a young girl who was kicked out of Her high school was at the alternative school where she was able to receive some of the accounts length services. At 1st she was very hard to talk to; she did not care about anything or anybody; she had no respect for property or for people. But after a year of mentoring she she was able to resume her studies at her normal high school, graduated, was accepted into college and even received a scholarship. MENAC does amazing work!
It has been a complete honor to watch this organization at work. Their contributions to the youth of the Onslow County School System and more importantly, the individual families will undoubtedly leave a lasting effect on the County and the State.
Having worked with MENAC first hand, I can tell you that it is an organization based on integrity and a true desire to simply serve at the highest level.
The professionalism, care and discretion they provide makes it a win win for all involved in their programs. Whether you’re a volunteer, a student or a parent, there is always an opportunity to be challenged to learn, grow and set yourself up for success.
Outstanding organization with outstanding leadership
Veney Cochran
CEO & Founder Elite Justice Success Group LLC and S.W.A.G. Leadership, Development & Training ~ (Succeeding With A Goal)
Being a single mom hard raising a teenage Boy..in this Society.. Anger issues..fights suspended
from school etc.. after bring referred by My sons court counselor to your organization it has help him with his issues by having a man to talk too..with his Dad not in his life..who understands..and takes the time to Listen..it has lift the burden off me..and he's doing well..With time and effort. And God's help I'm praying..so Thank you Mr Harris for taking the time..Much Appreciated
An organization that really will help you strive and achieve goals u never seen your self achieving.definitely recommend if you have any issues.
Mr. Harris was a great mentor to my son Nori. He went above and beyond the duties of being a mentor. He helped my family out tremendously. I'm extremely grateful for his mentoring.
My name is Lee Frazier. As a U.S. Marine retiree, service, volunteering, fellowship, camaraderie, and being mission-oriented aren't alien terms. These are but a few of the intangibles I've enjoyed since joining the ranks of this nonprofit organization. MENAC, Inc. values the known and hidden potential of both adults and youth. Every person, regardless of their socioeconomic status, etc., deserves an opportunity to achieve the brightest possible future, and a good education and support system is essential. Being a volunteer member of MENAC, Inc. allows me (and our caring team) to build our community around a common goal-'making a positive difference in lives.' Come join us...
This nonprofit is doing a great job going above and beyond to assist the youth and their families . Menac go to the schools, homes and for those who are in trouble goes to court to represent that these youth have support from the community as well as in the home. This program has open my eyes to a lot of things I truly wasn't aware of that youths are dealing with. It takes a heart and patience to deal with things that are going on in our society nowadays. I have learned that you're not that dealing with an individual it's the whole family so with that being said it takes a lot of patience and consideration. We need to get back to villages raising kids.
Helping children when they need the support. Guiding children to do the right thing by providing good examples.
Mark, it really helping my son his father is not in his life but mark has stepped up and help him with everything a man should . Quality time and giving him on advice with what he should do with his future and explaining how important it is for him to have a plan in life. It does not seem like they have a lot of funding to do more with the kids so if they had more money that would help . Thank You
Excellent in providing extra support for people that's in need in a friend and help getting pushed to meet goals
Menac Inc is doing an amazing job with my son. Everytime Mr. Mario calls or comes and pick up my son he just lights up! I am thankful for this organization because my son has someone he trust and respects. He also looks forward to spending time with Mr. Mario.
Mark is doing an excellent job as I see helping many young men to go in the right direction with the helping them With school work , teaching they how to drive and what to do with there future. The more people they have to help the more they can help Young men
MENAC Inc is doing a great job of mentoring youth and young adults in the areas of leadership, respect, and responsibility. The mentors are all professional when I see them engage with mentees and their families. MENAC Inc could improve the clients served if they had more mature and professional mentors men/women.