About MEN Inc
About Us
M.E.N. Incorporated began taking shape in 2009 and officially came to fruition in the winter of 2010. Co-Founders and Partners Desmond Bertrand and Justin D. Pitts were frequently sought out by young men in need of encouragement, counseling, mentoring, and most importantly someone willing to listen.
As time went on, more individuals reached out for help. Some needed guidance, others a meal, a place to stay while getting back on their feet, or simply a reassuring voice of reason. After many conversations about the lack of positive role models and mentors in the city of Houston, Desmond experienced an “aha” moment that sparked the idea of creating an organization. He immediately shared the vision with Justin, and together they agreed that forming an organization was the best way to reach and support a greater number of young men.
Building the Vision
Both founders had long served as mentors, counselors, educators, and nurturers within their communities often to individuals who felt safe being open and honest without fear of judgment. With that foundation, the research process began: late nights developing curriculum, drafting documents, creating business plans, budgets, and ultimately shaping the organization’s identity.
The name M.E.N. came naturally, reflecting the organization’s focus on the male demographic. From there, the meaning was defined:
Mentoring. Educating. Nurturing.
Three essential areas that are often overlooked within certain segments of young male communities.
Who We Are
M.E.N. Incorporated is a nonprofit organization dedicated to mentoring, educating, and nurturing young men in and around the Houston area and ultimately, the world.
Incorporated: January 20, 2011
DBA Received: February 11, 2011
IRS 501(c)(3) Tax-Exempt Status: June 6, 2011
Our mission is to mentor, educate, and nurture young men regardless of ethnicity or sexual orientation, within the resources available to us. Our goal is to equip young men with the awareness and training needed to become leaders who contribute positively and successfully to society.
Our Impact
M.E.N. Incorporated is a nonjudgmental, unbiased safe space for young men who are often turned away, misunderstood, or overlooked. We serve young men ages 8–25 from all backgrounds.
Throughout the year, M.E.N. Inc. hosts:
-Seminars
-Workshops
-Conferences
-One-on-one mentoring sessions
Topics include interviewing skills, career advancement, college admissions, financial literacy, goal setting, team building, and conflict resolution, among others.
Programs such as the You Matter Series and The Leadership Institute have gained strong community support, with participants consistently requesting more opportunities for growth and engagement.
Board of Directors
Chief Executive Officer
Buffalo Soldier National Museum
Desmond Betrand-Pitts
Justin Betrand-Pitts
Executive Director
M.E.N. Incorporated
President & Chief Executive Officer
Dr. Terrell Strayhorn
Do Good Work, LLC
Deandre Reagins
Well Engineering Team Leader
Shell Oil Company
Duane Dixon
Career Strategist
Leap Academy
M.E.N. Incorporated is seeking dedicated and passionate individuals to join our existing Board of Directors and help further our mission and vision. We are looking for leaders who are committed to service, community impact, and the continued growth of the organization.
Serving on the board is both meaningful and rewarding. It provides an opportunity to make a direct impact in the lives of young men, expand your professional and community connections, and grow as a leader alongside a team of like minded individuals.
While the experience is fulfilling, it also requires commitment, preparation, and active participation.