Why It Matters

The challenges facing boys today are stark:

• Boys are twice as likely to face suspension as girls, with Black boys five times more likely.

• Boys make up only 40% of college enrollees and consistently underperform academically.

• Social media has amplified harmful narratives about masculinity, as seen in figures like Andrew Tate, normalizing misogynistic and homophobic attitudes.

• Emotional isolation is rampant: three in four boys report feeling pressure to be strong, and two in five believe society expects them to resolve anger with aggression.

The Men’s Work Project directly counters these trends, giving boys the tools to break free from the confines of the “Man Box”—the rigid societal expectations that limit their ability to express emotions, build meaningful relationships, and embrace vulnerability.

The Impact

Early results and testimonials highlight transformative shifts:

• Behavioral Change: Boys report feeling more emotionally open, confident, and respectful. Teachers observe significant improvements in peer interactions and classroom behavior.

• Reduced Disciplinary Issues: Administrators note fewer reports of bullying and sexual harassment, attributed to the program’s culture of peer accountability.

• Academic Engagement: Boys in the program are more attentive and engaged, building trust with teachers and fostering a ripple effect of positive expectations.

• Cultural Shift: Boys now encourage one another with affirmations and kindness, challenging harmful norms and modeling respect for peers and women.

As one participant shared, “This program lets us know what a man could be and helps us decide for ourselves what kind of men we want to be.”

How the Program Works

Curriculum Design: Drawing on leading research, including the Global Boyhood Initiative and Equimundo’s studies, the program meets boys where they are with topics like:

• Emotional Literacy: Identifying and expressing feelings safely.

• Social Pressures: Unpacking the "Man Box" and redefining masculinity.

• Healthy Relationships: Building trust, respect, and communication skills.

• Mental Health Awareness: Destigmatizing help-seeking and stress management.

• Leadership Development: Encouraging accountability, teamwork, and bystander intervention.

Structure: Boys meet twice monthly for 50-minute sessions throughout the school year, with interactive activities fostering peer connection and actionable learning.

Facilitation: Led by facilitators with over 25 years of combined experience in teaching and masculinity-focused workshops, the program ensures a safe, supportive space for boys to grow.