About Mentoring Through Media
Our Story
Mentoring Through Media (MTM) was born in April 2009 inside YouthVille Detroit, a Youth Development Center committed to uplifting young people in the heart of the city. At that time, my coworkers—Ken Elkins and Monty Harris—and I were teaching a media arts class for a group of teenage boys. However, it quickly became evident that these young men weren’t just interested in learning about cameras or editing software; they were seeking guidance. They were trying to navigate the challenges of their environment and find a blueprint for success.
So, we listened.
In response, we organized a one-day retreat focused on the real topics they were grappling with—manhood, financial literacy, poverty, goal planning, and college and career readiness. That day changed everything and laid the groundwork for what we now know as Mentoring Through Media, one of the premier Detroit youth programs aimed at empowering young men.
As time went on, Ken moved out of state, but others stepped in to enhance our efforts. Chavell Crofford joined our mission, Monty provided unwavering support, and Dave Buckler, then COO of YouthVille Detroit, offered invaluable financial backing. Together, we kept the mission alive.
MTM expanded beyond those initial classroom discussions. We began taking young men on college tours, engaging them in community service, connecting them with summer employment, and hosting events centered on empowerment, leadership, and personal growth. Most importantly, we built meaningful relationships—relationships that have helped guide these young men toward safe choices, bright futures, and stable adulthood.
Fast forward to 2025, and MTM is still standing strong.
For more than 15 years, we have remained dedicated to supporting young inner-city males in a holistic, intentional way. We believe deeply that "you can’t be what you can’t see." This belief has driven us to expose young men to college campuses across the Great Lakes region, provide mentorship that meets them where they are, and empower them to dream bigger than their circumstances.
To date, MTM has helped over 200 young men graduate from high school on time and move toward success in college, careers, and life.
And we’re not done.
The need is still great. The vision is still clear. Our commitment to the next generation of young Black men through our Detroit youth programs remains stronger than ever.
The work continues…
Our Vision
To build a future where every young male in Detroit has access to mentorship through media, exposure, and opportunity—empowering young men to rise above barriers, discover their purpose, and become the leaders their communities need through Detroit youth programs.
Our Mission
Mentoring Through Media (MTM) is committed to empowering young men in Detroit through holistic mentorship, exposure, and personal development. Our Detroit youth programs equip young males with the tools, guidance, and real-world experiences they need to thrive socially, academically, and professionally. Through college tours, media-based engagement, life skills training, and meaningful relationships, MTM helps young men see what’s possible, believe in their potential, and pursue a path toward a successful, purpose-driven life.