In the heart of Madison, Wisconsin, Mentoring Positives is changing lives—one meal, one mentorship, and one opportunity at a time. Founded by Will and Becky Green, this nonprofit is more than just an organization; it's a movement dedicated to uplifting at-risk youth through mentorship, athletics, and social entrepreneurship. And at the core of their mission? Soul food with a purpose.
The Recipe for Impact: Mentorship & Community Engagement
Mentoring Positives is built on a foundation of love, resilience, and empowerment. The program fosters strong relationships between mentors and young people, equipping them with life skills, leadership training, and entrepreneurial experiences that pave the way for success beyond the classroom.
Through their Leader Academy, youth step out of traditional school settings and into real-world experiences where they develop self-confidence, social-emotional intelligence, and professional skills that prepare them for the future. From athletic programs that teach teamwork and perseverance to business ventures that promote responsibility and creativity, every initiative is designed to set them up for long-term success.
Off the Block Enterprises: A Taste of Entrepreneurship
One of the most innovative aspects of Mentoring Positives is its Off the Block (OTB) Enterprises—a social enterprise giving youth hands-on experience in food production, marketing, and business operations. What started as a garden project turned into a thriving initiative, producing Off the Block Salsa—a locally made product that represents hope, hustle, and community pride.
And the impact doesn’t stop there. Mentoring Positives has expanded into soul food catering, providing youth with valuable culinary skills while serving up dishes that feed both body and soul. Their catering arm not only generates funding for their mentorship programs but also gives young entrepreneurs a platform to learn the art of business, teamwork, and customer service.
More Than a Meal: Culinary Training & Hospitality Experience
The Muriel’s Plate culinary program takes this mission a step further. Named in honor of Muriel Pipkins, an inspiring community advocate, this initiative connects local chefs with young learners, teaching them essential cooking and hospitality skills. Youth in the program prepare and serve meals to the community, gaining firsthand experience in kitchen operations, service industry roles, and event management—all while giving back to their neighborhood.
The Power of Social Entrepreneurship
Mentoring Positives is proving that when business meets purpose, lives transform. Their model of social entrepreneurship gives youth not just hope, but tangible skills they can carry into adulthood. Whether it’s through producing and selling Off the Block Salsa, mastering customer service in their catering business, or learning to lead in the hospitality industry, these young people are gaining real-world experience that will serve them for a lifetime.
Get Involved: Be a Part of the Change
Mentoring Positives is always looking for community support. Whether you want to mentor, volunteer, donate, or simply enjoy their delicious soul food, every contribution fuels their mission to empower the next generation.
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Donate: Your support helps fund mentorship programs, entrepreneurial ventures, and community outreach.
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Volunteer: Lend your time and skills to make a difference in a young person’s life.
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Cater with Purpose: Order from their soul food catering service and support youth-driven entrepreneurship.
👉 Visit Mentoring Positives to learn more and get involved today!
Why Mentoring Positives Stands Out
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A holistic approach to youth empowerment through mentorship, athletics, and business education.
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Hands-on entrepreneurship programs that provide practical skills and career pathways.
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Community-driven initiatives that give back while fostering leadership and resilience.
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Soul food catering that feeds the stomach and fuels the future of Madison’s youth.
Mentoring Positives isn’t just transforming young lives—it’s building a stronger, more connected community. Through mentorship, education, and the power of social entrepreneurship, they are setting the table for success—one plate, one lesson, and one dream at a time.
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