My Brothers/Sisters Keeper Chapter Kick Off Event,

About the event

The goal of the event is to engage and empower students of color by encouraging active participation in the My Brother's Keeper (MBK) and My Sister's Keeper (MSK) initiatives, fostering a sense of community, leadership, and opportunity.

The day will feature a dynamic agenda designed to inspire and uplift participants, including interactive workshops, motivational guest speakers, and hands-on activities. These sessions aim to address the unique challenges faced by students of color while celebrating their achievements and potential. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with mentors, peers, and community leaders who are committed to supporting their academic, personal, and professional growth.

By the end of the event, participants will leave with a renewed sense of confidence, actionable strategies for success, and a deeper connection to the MBK/MSK movement, empowering them to take charge of their futures and contribute to their communities.

Why should you sponsor?

New York’s MBK initiative is committed to: Ensuring equitable access to high quality schools and programs. Expanding prevention, early warning, and intervention services. Using differentiated approaches based on need and culture. Responding to structural and institutional racism. Making comprehensive and coordinated support services widely available; and Engaging families and communities in a trusted and respectful way.

The goal of MSK in District 79 is to align with the goal of the overall MSK initiative and to equip young women of color in our District with opportunities to identify, reflect, and assess their character as they develop into productive citizens and build a network of peers that empower each other through shared experiences!

Manuel Pica

My name is Manuel Pica, and I serve as the Community Coordinator for District 79, a role I have been proud to hold for the past seven years. In this capacity, I am committed to fostering equitable opportunities for our district’s most marginalized students. My primary objective is to ensure that every student, regardless of their background or circumstances, has access to the same high-quality resources and opportunities as their peers.

Throughout my tenure, I have worked diligently to bridge gaps in access and advocate for programs and services that empower our students to reach their fullest potential. By collaborating with educators, families, and community partners, I strive to create an inclusive environment where every student feels valued, supported, and equipped to succeed.

Equity is not just a goal for me—it is the foundation of everything I do. I am deeply dedicated to breaking down systemic barriers and building pathways that allow our students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. My role is not only about addressing immediate needs but also about laying the groundwork for long-term success and resilience for the students and families of District 79.

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