The Manhood Training Retreat was established in 2001 by a group of professional men and Dr. Emanuel to help give direction and purpose to the lives of young males before they graduate from high school and college. We have found that the African tradition of Manhood Training is essential to males here in the Unites States as well. Males need this program to develop skills for interacting with other males as well as females and to hear diverse opinions and options from others who may or may not have similar life circumstances. This is especially important to males, who do not grow up with a dad in their life to give them direction and purpose. Males from Maryland, Virginia, Washington, DC and New York City have participated in the Manhood Training Retreats.
Speakers from Hagerstown Community College, Howard University and Morgan State University speak and encourage males to attend college and prepare for life as leaders in the community. They have an opportunity to network with other young men who currently attend college, ask questions about college life, and learn about scholarships, financial aid and other means of supporting the financial aspects of college. The experiences gained from this retreat will affect these young men for the remainder of their lives.