Holding Space, Building Trust: What We Heard at May’s Advocates for Young Men Gathering
At Ever Forward Club, we believe something powerful happens when adults slow down long enough to really listen to young people. That belief came to life on Thursday, May 29, during our monthly Advocates for Young Men virtual gathering—a heartfelt conversation grounded in truth, trust, and transformation.
This community space brings together parents, educators, mentors, and champions for youth to talk about how we can better support the young men in our lives. And this month? We got to hear directly from two young leaders who reminded us that our listening ears are often more important than our perfect words.
“Just Hear Me First”: Listening to Young Men’s Experiences
The evening’s conversation centered on what it feels like to grow up as a young man today. Jorge and AJ—two incredible members of Ever Forward’s Young Men’s Health Group—shared bravely about their personal journeys. Through Ever Forward, they found a space where they could be real, be heard, and be loved for who they are—not just who the world expects them to be.
They talked about the challenge of opening up to adults—especially when it feels like judgment shows up before understanding. “We don’t need a lecture,” AJ shared. “We just need to feel like someone’s actually listening.”
Their words reminded all of us that empathy is a practice, not just a feeling.
21 Years of Community, Connection, and Courage
We also took a moment to celebrate something beautiful: Ever Forward Club’s 21st anniversary! 🎉
For over two decades, our community has been helping young men of color find their voice, their strength, and their purpose. We watched clips from our anniversary Dance-A-Thon, felt the joy and connection in every step, and heard from EFC team member Justin Martinez about the meaningful growth he’s witnessed in our young brothers.
Jorge and AJ shared how Ever Forward gave them a brave space to step into their own power—and how that space helped them communicate better with the adults in their lives, too.
Bridging the Gap: Teens and Adults in Conversation
The real magic of this gathering? It was intergenerational.
Jorge and AJ talked about the tension that can show up when teens try to talk to adults—especially when they’re navigating stress, anger, or self-defense. They shared how quick assumptions or harsh reactions from adults can shut young people down, even when the adult’s intention is to help.
“We need adults to be patient with us,” Jorge said. “Even when we’re not saying things perfectly, we’re trying.”
Together, we explored how healthy masculinity starts with making space for emotional honesty—not shame.
Real Talk About Parenting, Advice, and Support
The conversation turned tender as we dove into parenting—how to offer advice without shaming, and how to love young people through their mistakes. Jorge reminded us that understanding why a behavior happens matters just as much as correcting it.
Aj shared that while serious issues should be addressed with clarity, the small stuff needs compassion and curiosity—not criticism. When asked how teens tell the difference between judgment and constructive feedback, he said, “It’s about tone, timing, and love.”
What’s Next
We wrapped up our time with deep appreciation for everyone who showed up with openness and care—especially AJ and Jorge for their courage and clarity.
💬 Next AYM Gathering: Last Thursday of next month
🎭 Want to bring a mask-making workshop to your school or org? Reach out—we’ve got you
🌱 Ready to join our Advocates for Young Men community? It's free and full of love
Join Us in the Work
This community is growing—and so is our belief that when young people feel safe, they thrive. The next generation is ready to be seen, heard, and supported. Let’s rise up to meet them with love, not lectures.
🌍 Make your own mask and explore your story: https://millionmask.org
💞 Join our Advocates for Young Men virtual community: https://bit.ly/AYMcommunity
📬 Stay connected through our newsletter: https://everforwardclub.org/contact
Let’s keep building a world where young men feel free to take off the mask—and know they’ll still be loved.
With heart,
Your Ever Forward Club Family