Boys to Men Tucson

At Boys to Men Tucson (BTMT), we know that transforming communities begins with empowering our youth. Far too often, masculine-identified youth face immense challenges stemming from harmful societal norms and the lack of safe, trusted adults to guide them. These challenges contribute to increased risks of violence, poor mental health outcomes, and disengagement from school and community life. We are here to change that.

Centering Youth and Building Community

Our Healthy Masculinity Group Mentoring Program creates safe, inclusive spaces for boys and masculine-identified youth to develop essential life skills, connect with supportive mentors, and explore what healthy masculinity means to them. At the heart of our program are restorative circles—a proven model that fosters honest conversations, emotional literacy, and non-violent conflict resolution. These spaces prioritize community-building and equip youth to process their emotions constructively, develop empathy, and embrace vulnerability.

The Power of Representation

Representation matters. Our mentors reflect the diverse communities we serve, with a deliberate focus on recruiting BIPOC mentors who bring lived experiences and cultural relevance to their roles. This connection helps youth feel seen and understood, strengthening their sense of belonging and their ability to thrive.

The Numbers Speak for Themselves

The impact of our programs is measurable and meaningful:

• 78% of youth in our programs report feeling more hopeful about their future.
• 76% feel comfortable sharing their feelings, a critical step in addressing mental health challenges.
• Participation in our circles has reduced instances of aggression and increased emotional regulation skills.
• 53% of youth are new to the program, and nearly half return year after year, demonstrating sustained engagement and trust in the process.
• Representation is growing, with 73% of participants identifying as Hispanic/Latinx and mentors who reflect their cultural and lived experiences.

Preventing Violence Through Connection

Youth violence is a pressing public health issue, but it is preventable. Research shows that school and community-based initiatives like mentoring and restorative practices reduce violent behaviors while improving mental wellness and academic engagement. By centering restorative justice principles, we address root causes and break cycles of harm.

How You Can Help

Your support ensures that we can:

• Expand our programs to reach more Title I schools and underserved communities across Pima County.
• Train and sustain a network of culturally relevant, trauma-informed mentors.
• Continue building partnerships with schools, juvenile justice systems, and local organizations to amplify our reach.

By investing in Boys to Men Tucson, you’re empowering youth to redefine masculinity, embrace their authentic selves, and contribute to safer, healthier communities. Together, we can create a future where every young person has the tools and support they need to thrive.