Lisa Fruge never considered her son Brandon a bad kid. She was, however, concerned about his future. Coming into his prime years as a young adult, he was extremely reserved and quiet. After watching a video at her church, Lisa Fruge decided to enroll Brandon in Lansing's
Turning Point program. Many teens are skeptical of their parents' ideas, and Brandon was no exception.
“When I first started, I really didn't want to do it. I just felt like it was something that mom wanted me to get into,” says Brandon Fruge.
Despite his initial perceptions, he found himself increasingly enjoying time with his mentors and peers in the program. On his first day, he realized he recognized many of his colleagues and quickly became acquainted with the people he didn't know.
“I was a little shy, but all the elders, they were really outgoing and fun to be around,” adds Brandon, “I have gotten a little more confident because of turning point.”
Now 15, the confident Brandon is recognized by his teachers as a huge success. According to his teachers, he is now one of the most active participants in his classes. Brandon will soon be applying to Michigan State University, where he plans to graduate with a degree in physical therapy.
“He has definitely come out of that shell,” says Lisa Fruge, “He doesn't mind speaking - I get compliments about (his manners) and how he behaves.”
I overcame my circumstances and succeeded. So can you.
Turning Point Elder, Bobby Ficklin, grew up in a tough socio-economic background, but he was still able to succeed. Currently working as an attorney in the Lansing area, he works with 7th and 8th grade students, and also helped to create the rites of passage program for Turning Point seniors. Ficklin used his own experiences to give back to his community as a mentor.
“A lot of these kids don't have father figures at home,” says Ficklin, “I think it's vital with what we provide with the role model they may not have.”
Participants at Turning Point range from 7th grade to 12th. Upon enrolling in the program, they enter into a network of role models of who aim to help them reach their full potential. The program offers a wealth of opportunities to build relationships with their mentors and peers, transforming them slowly towards mature attitudes and behaviors. It uses a cultural curriculum based on Nguzo Saba, the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa. Ficklin appreciates this Afrocentric programmatic theme because it directly relates to its target audience.
“(Turning Point) is specifically for males, but they are mostly Hispanic and black.” says Ficklin, “Just having something that caters to these kids that shows them they matter.”
The main goals of the Turning Point program are to build pride in African American males, inspire motivation for academic and personal achievement, provide direction on tough issues, create a forum for discussion, and establish meaningful relationships through group mentoring. By catering directly to this group of males, it shows them that they are important and that they matter to their community. It also gives them a positive model for their future.
“You can do the same thing” says Ficklin, “We show them the image of successful men and tell them they can be the same thing.”
Crafting experiences that build confidence and teach skills
A completely volunteer-run organization, the organization utilizes 32 active mentors which serve kids through a variety of ways. Their strategies include monthly group mentoring, one-to-one mentoring for specific issues, leadership and presentation skills, “manhood training” to improve social skills, and recreational activities. Turning Point blends a combination of fun activities with skill building to keep its teens interested and engaged in the program.
“I really appreciate how they make things happen that (participants) normally would not (be able to access),” says Lisa Fruge.
Past outings have included trip to the skating rink, bowling, and outings to sports games. Lisa recalled an outing a few years ago when Brandon had the opportunity to visit Comerica Park to watch the Detroit Tigers play.
“I have never seen my son so excited as a teenager, he was skipping through the park he was so excited,” said Lisa.
Around Christmas each year, the Turning Point takes participants University Club at Michigan State. It's a black tie event where the teens learn proper dinner etiquette.
“It's fun to be around everyone at the same time, it's like fellowship.” says Brandon Fruge.
Volunteers also teach key skills and provide identities for males that complete the program. Every May, the participants complete a Rites of Passage ceremony where they recognized for their successes; it is the time where graduating seniors are symbolically transitioned into their manhood.
“They are teaching them how to be a young man in this society, how to feel good about themselves, and (to build their) self esteem,” says Lisa Fruge.
Turning Point will be hosting their kick-off event on Sunday, Sept. 21 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Lansing Community College West Campus. Young men and parents will share their experiences with new families regarding Turning Point. Interested volunteers and teens alike are encouraged attend to learn more about the organization.
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Kevin Lignell is a freelance writer for Capital Gains.
Photos ©
Dave Trumpie
Dave Trumpie is the managing photographer for Capital Gains. He is a freelance photographer and owner of
Trumpie Photography.