Building Brotherhood, Purpose, and Positive Influence at Mt. Vernon High School

The 1 Brotherhood Empowered Club at Mt. Vernon High School serves as a powerful space for connection, growth, and leadership development among students. Throughout the fall semester, the club welcomed between 25 and 30 students per session, creating a consistent, supportive environment where students could explore real-life topics that directly impact their academic success, relationships, and personal well-being.

More than just a club, 1 Brotherhood Empowered has become a safe space, one where students feel seen, heard, and encouraged to grow together.

Session 1: Discipline as a Foundation for Success

25 students attended

The November 7 session focused on discipline, helping students understand it as more than rules or punishment. Through open discussion, discipline was reframed as self-control, consistency, and mindset, essential tools for success in school, sports, and life.

Students reflected on how discipline connects to staying motivated, setting short-term goals, and maintaining drive even when challenges arise. One student shared that the Brotherhood “feels like a very safe space, somewhere I can go and be comfortable,” while others described it as a positive community that encourages them to be better for themselves and for their brothers.

Many left the session committed to staying consistent in their academics, athletics, and personal growth, recognizing discipline as a skill they can actively practice every day.

Session 2: Goal Setting With Purpose

30 students attended

With one of the highest turnouts of the semester, the November 18 session centered on goal setting. Students learned how to break down large goals into daily, weekly, and short-term actions, making success feel achievable rather than overwhelming.

Participants shared that understanding how to organize and track goals increased their confidence and clarity. Several students committed to creating routines that align with their long-term aspirations, while others expressed a desire to positively influence their peers by modeling accountability and focus.

The session reinforced an important message: success is built step by step, and no goal is reached alone.

Session 3: Understanding Peer Pressure and Positive Influence

23 students attended

The December 5 session tackled the complex topic of peer pressure, encouraging students to explore both its negative and positive forms. Through discussion and reflection, students learned that peer pressure isn’t always harmful, and that it can be a powerful force for encouragement, accountability, and growth when used positively.

Students shared insights about choosing the right friends, speaking positively to others, and not allowing negativity to define who they are. Many expressed a commitment to uplifting their peers, practicing positive communication, and surrounding themselves with people who support their goals.

One student shared that the Brotherhood is “a safe space for mental health talks and new opportunities,” while another described the program as life-changing, helping them heal from traumatic experiences and grow into their best self.

A Community of Growth and Belonging

Across all sessions, students consistently described the 1 Brotherhood Empowered Club as:

• A safe space for honest conversations

• A positive community that encourages accountability and growth

• A place to learn life skills that extend beyond the classroom

• A support system that strengthens mental health, leadership, and purpose

The impact of 1 Brotherhood Empowered at Mt. Vernon High School is evident not only in attendance numbers, but in the voices of students who feel empowered to lead, support one another, and shape a better future,

together.