Life Pieces to Masterpieces' apprentices learn how to make healthy choices at home, in their neighborhood and at school, enabling them to succeed and thrive against all odds. Apprentices consistently improve their school attendance and performance; improve their social and life skills; and avoid involvement with gangs, the juvenile system, and teen pregnancy. Below is testimonials directly from the apprentices.
Alenzo Jenkins (15)
Grade/School: 10th grade - Friendship Edison Collegiate Academy
Years at LPTM: 5
Soul Name: Brother Faith “Because people put their trust in me, I was given the name, ‘Brother Faith’.”
“I’ve been going to LPTM since I was 10 years old. I choose to go there rather than hanging in the streets and getting into trouble. We get to paint and play sports after our homework is done. I also enjoy beating the African drums for my fellow apprentices and during our presentations. Since joining LPTM, I have had very few incidents of trouble in my neighborhood or at school. If I didn’t have LPTM in my life, it would be full of trouble and chaos. One evening, when my mom had been looking for me, she finally called LPTM. When I answered the phone, she asked me where I had been. I simply told her, ‘I went to LPTM. Where else would I be?’ ”
Maurice Kie (20)
School: Sophomore University of the District of Columbia
Years at LPTM: 11
Soul Name: Brother Pillar “Since I am one of the original seven apprentices, I am a part of LPTM’s foundation. I provide the frame and structure for the organization.”
“It’s nice to see other young men grow up in the program like I did - from learning about LPTM’s unique art style to making presentations in front of hundreds of people. LPTM has allowed me to do things I wouldn’t normally experience… I’ve grown in many ways and have come to see everything differently now. I no longer make assumptions or judgments about people, because I have learned that everything has a story behind it. I don’t know of any other program that is as successful at having a positive impact on an entire generation of young black men as LPTM. They’re in the business of saving young black men’s lives. It’s a family for those who don’t have one, and a place where you feel safe. I can’t imagine my life without LPTM.”
Terry Johnson (17)
Grade/School: 12th grade - Friendship Edison Collegiate Academy
Years at LPTM: 9
Soul Name: Brother Revolution “The name ‘Brother Revolution’ was given to me because I bring about positive change.”
“LPTM encourages me to keep pushing forward, and it keeps me away from the negative influences on the streets. The whole program is great! The art we do is very unique. We get help with our homework, play sports, and go on field trips. Everything I’ve learned over the years I now pass on to the incoming group of apprentices. The staff at LPTM has helped me to focus on positive goals and gives me encouragement to stay on the straight path. What I appreciate most is the fact that LPTM is there for me 24 hours a day, seven days a week. How many other programs can you say that about?”
Alondo Jones (12)
Grade/School: 7th grade - Merritt Middle School
Years at LPTM: 3 ½
Soul Name: Brother Seeking “My name means that I am constantly searching for the positive things in life and in myself.”
“LPTM helps me with my school work and teaches me to become more disciplined. It also keeps me focused on my goals in life. I have made friends with kids from other schools. At LPTM, you always know you have a place to go. We get to see and do things we would not have the chance to experience being at school or home. Without LPTM, my life would be very bad. It’s an awesome program!”
Daniel Griffin (13)
Grade/School: 7th Merritt Middle School
Years at LPTM: 3
Soul Name: Brother Wisdom “I was given the name Brother Wisdom because I’m learning how to use my intelligence and knowledge in a positive way.”
“Before I started coming to LPTM, my conduct at school was bad! I would run the halls all the time. Now, I am much better, and I stay in class. The people at LPTM are kind and nice. They help me with my homework and talk with me when I am upset or mad about something. If LPTM wasn’t here, I would probably be in a juvenile detention center. They have helped me to make positive choices in my life. It’s a great program that we all really like."