Jerron Hawkins Chats with President Obama on MSNBC Special Edition

After sharing the stage with President Obama on MSNBC's Special Edition, Liberty Hill Youth Justice Intern, Jerron Hawkins looks back on his experience as a former White House Mentee and as a beneficiary of the My Brother's Keeper initiative.

“To hear, in person, President’s Obama unwavering support and trust in young people to carry this work forward is a testament to the importance of the work we are doing to improve the lives of these young people. The more we build up our young people today, the better they’ll be able to build our communities tomorrow," said Jerron.

About My Brother's Keeper

President Obama launched the My Brother’s Keeper initiative to address persistent opportunity gaps faced by boys and young men of color and ensure that all young people can reach their full potential.

Through this initiative, the Administration is joining with cities and towns, businesses, and foundations who are taking important steps to connect young people to mentoring, support networks, and the skills they need to find a good job or go to college and work their way into the middle class.
My Brother’s Keeper is focused on six milestones:

• Getting a Healthy Start and Entering School Ready to Learn
  All children should have a healthy start and enter school ready – cognitively, physically, socially, and emotionally.
  
• Reading at Grade Level by Third Grade
  All children should be reading at grade level by age 8 – the age at which reading to learn becomes essential.
  
• Graduating from High School Ready for College and Career
  All youth should receive a quality high school education and graduate with the skills and tools needed to advance to postsecondary education or training.
  
• Completing Postsecondary Education or Training
  Every American should have the option to attend postsecondary education and receive the education and training needed for the quality jobs of today and tomorrow.
  
• Successfully Entering the Workforce
  Anyone who wants a job should be able to get a job that allows them to support themselves and their families
  .
• Keeping Kids on Track and Giving Them Second Chances
  All youth and young adults should be safe from violent crime; and individuals who are confined should receive the education, training, and treatment they need for a second chance.

Learn more about the My Brother's Keeper initiative.