Who says you need a cape to be a superhero? Not these good brothers. They don’t have capes or special names, but they are armed with a heart for change. These brothers from across the country are changing their communities one small act of kindness at a time. Read below how a good deed can grow into a mission. Learn from these men and their experiences and be inspired to become the change you want to see in your own world.
Supreme is using his love of the arts to improve the condition of the city he calls home. For over 5 years Supreme has actively given back to his community. In 2019 Supreme partnered with Renaissance Day Experiences LLC to initiate the Solely Up To Us Project – a community revitalization effort centered around the artistic renovation of urban parks and courtyards.
“I’ve learned the importance of being a teacher and advisor to other aspiring artists and youth and have committed to being part of the change by using my art, time and resources.” After losing his mentor to gun violence this year, he is dedicated to inspiring positivity in the midst of gloom through vibrant color palettes and geometric design in hopes of lifting the spirits of anyone who sees it. “I not only want to make a difference for my community today but for generations to come,” Supreme says.
“Every day as my son looks to me for guidance and direction, I realize the importance of the example I set for him and how it will help him develop confidence in his ability to improve the lives of others as well as his own. I seek to inspire the same confidence in all children.”
Follow Him: @SolelySupreme
Growing up in single-parent homes, William Craig and Antonio Beard understand more personally the need to step up to the plate, especially for children. Since 2017, the pair have executed 79 community events in the Washington D.C. area that include back to school and clothing drives, initiatives to feed over 7,000 homeless and held a cleaning supply drive for homeless shelters in D.C.
Giving back to people in need is a true passion that brings together these two friends. Together, they have adopted three homeless shelters in their hometown and are working on an aftercare program and a Phone Down Fitness campaign which focuses on being active. “Black men across the country need to come together and strategize,” says William and Antonio. “Our elders, middle and younger generation need to change the narrative to better help the community as a whole.”
Follow Them: @leadbyexamplefoundation
When Kevin Livingston was 15 years old, his beloved father Henry Clayton would have him wear suits to work. Back then, Kevin was a brochure stamper. So wearing a suit to work meant he was definitely the best well-dressed brochure stamper in Queens, New York. Soon, Kevin learned the power of a suit. It made him confident, fearless and surprisingly shifted the attitudes of others around him. “I want a man to recognize his worth, know he is a king and believe it,” says Kevin. That’s exactly what he does every day at his organization 100 Suits.
“Being a person of your word goes a long way when you’re dealing with somebody who has experienced trauma,” Kevin says. “I have dealt with trauma on a personal level and know what it feels like to have someone be consistent. With consistency, we all can save lives… one suit at a time!”
Follow Him: @100Suits
Like many of his friends, Sean Williams loves being a dad. Sadly, he is all too familiar with the false and pervasive stereotypes about Black men as fathers. In 2016, Sean started an organization called The Dad Gang, which focuses on tackling the negative stereotypes of black fatherhood through a series of impactful events centered around celebrating active black fathers. “We love being dads and we are very active and involved in raising our children,” says Sean. “It’s sad that even today people are still shocked at the sight of black dads out here doing our daddy thing.”
The Dad Gang Instagram that boasts 64k followers, features a catalog of photos of black dads doing amazing things or simply bonding with their children. “I believe that each person can have an impact, even if all you bring to the table is some positive energy and a smile,” says Sean. “That smile goes a long way and can mean the world to someone who hasn’t seen a smile all day.”
Follow Him: @thedadgang
Much like the city he is from, JaWaun Jones has a true desire to spread love. Years ago, the barber took to the streets of Philadelphia to give free haircuts to those who are often forgotten — the homeless. “The reaction, the smiles, the instant faith that was restored in each individual was overwhelming,” says JaWaun. “I felt there was a need, not just for a haircut; but for them to know someone cares.”
“My homeless clients, who I also consider family, look at me as being a blessing. Deep down inside I consider them the real blessing.” JaWaun adds that you don’t have to be a barber, you can be anything but “we must be the change we want to see in our communities.”
Follow Him: @haircut4homeless