Monroe Youth Development Program aims to promote lifestyle improvement in young males

MONROE, La. (KTVE/KARD) — A youth development program is currently seeking young male residents in Ouachita Parish for membership.

“A Bigger Picture Global, L3C” aims to promote drug prevention, crime reduction, scholastic achievement and more.

A lot of people come from an area where they need help or where they need a positive influence, and you place yourself in a mindset to be that positive influence, you really just craft a plan and get out there and try to execute.

AJ Barnes, Co-Founder | A Bigger Picture Global, L3C

This program wants to instill a greater sense of hope for male leaders in Monroe. Members and their families say that they notice growth in their children.

When you have somebody that is guiding you and trying to make sure that you go left, they help you to go right.

Francis Brown, Aunt of member

“A Bigger Picture Global” also aims to provide a safe haven for those in need, and encourage the establishment of community outreach.

Barnes encourages those interested in becoming a member to attend events held throughout the course of the year, including a “Grill and Chill” held on July 27th.

Courtesy of AJ Barnes.

Although membership is currently only open to males ages 8-18, Barnes says that she hopes to extend invitations to young women in the near future.