"I just want to grow up and not see kids be in gangs, not get shot on the street. I want to grow up and see them be successful pharmacists, doctors and lawyers. That's what I want to see for the younger generation," said eleventh grader Jaquan Elam.
Elam is one of sixteen students a part of a new organization at Northeast High School in Bibb County. Called Student African American Brotherhood, the group works to inspire students to become role models in their school and community.
"We have taken a responsibility as teachers at this school to push our kids to be the best that they can be in every area, not just in academics but in becoming good corporate citizens. We think that this initiative, the Student African American Brotherhood aligns very well with that direction," said club advisor Robert Randall.
He decribes the 16 young men that make up the group as well-rounded and balanced indiviuals who want to be exposed to new opportunities.
Eleventh grade student and brotherhood member, Marion Wornum said, "It means a lot, I feel honored that I have the chance to affect a generation. This is something that I've had a passion for for the longest."
Sophomore student Allen Moss told Eyewitness News, "It's also for personal gain and to learn how to be better and do better for ourselves."
Brian Harmon, who is also a club advisor and art teacher said, "We're trying to get them to unlock their full potential and hopefully out in the world, people will see us in a different light."
They are goals Randall says are on track to improve generations to come in school and the communites where they live.
"Graduating is just the first step and going off to college is the second step and eventually coming back. Becoming a good corporate citizen means making sure your community is the best community it can be to raise other kids is the ultimate goal," said Randall.
The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation awarded a grant to the Student African American Brotherhood group to establish a local chapter at Northeast High School.
The money will help students generate projects that will benefit the community.
Club advisor Robert Randall says Northeast will be the only high school in the state to start a chapter.
The organization has its headquarters at the University of Toledo in Ohio.