Everything we do flows through the Paul Robeson Institute for Positive Self-Development.
Educational, emotional, and personal support for young Black males and their families — from elementary through high school, one Saturday at a time.
In the fall of 1989, Concerned Black Men of Massachusetts, Inc. (CBMM), under the leadership of its Standing Committee on Education, initiated the Paul Robeson Institute for Positive Self-Development (PRI) to provide a vehicle of educational, emotional and personal support to young Black males and their families.
Predicated on the grounds that Black children and their families are at acute risk in today's society, the Institute was formed to provide a range of early intervention and self-awareness options for elementary through high school age youth and their families.
PRI is modeled in name and spirit after Paul Robeson — an African-American whose life's work served as a paragon of achievement, strength, intellect, sensitivity, and self-conviction.
Boston, MA · Since 1989
Every Saturday, PRI students are mentored by compassionate, loving Black men who model how a successful, fulfilling life can be built. From our opening Harambee to the closing "Circle of Love," we are all our brother's keepers. For much of our history the Institute met every Saturday; in recent years it runs 20+ sessions and special events across each season.
"All pull together" — the opening call.
A call-and-response recitation of the seven principles of Kwanzaa by Dr. Maulana Karenga.
Closing in brotherhood, every week.
We believe that our students are capable of making positive choices. We do not believe that poverty or racial discrimination are insurmountable barriers to success.
Recognizing that parents are vital to the development of young men, PRI also embraces parents — facilitating problem-solving sessions between parents and sons during Saturday sessions and during the week through home visits.
PRI members are comprised of three distinct groups, each assigned two leader-mentors under the direction of two program Co-Directors. Through open enrollment, the Institute welcomes young men of color ages 7–19, primarily from the Boston Public Schools and Greater Boston.
Our elementary school students — the youngest members of the Institute, beginning their journey of positive self-development.
Our middle school students, growing in confidence and character as they move toward young adulthood.
Our high school students, preparing for the responsibilities and opportunities of life beyond PRI.
On average, each student receives more than 104 hours of programming every year, including an embedded learning curriculum and STEM-disciplined support. More than 120 boys take part in the Paul Robeson Institute, primarily from the Boston Public Schools and Greater Boston.
Through open enrollment, PRI welcomes young men of color ages 7–19, primarily from the Boston Public Schools and Greater Boston. Start your son's journey with us.
Submit the admission application to begin, then complete the Consent to Participate & Release form so your son can take part in every Saturday session, field trip, and activity.
Your gift funds programming, field trips, and meals for the young men of the Paul Robeson Institute — or give your time, wisdom, and presence as a mentor.