A local youth mentoring program is equipping young men with the skills they need to succeed in the professional world. The “Black Tie Guys” program, sponsored by Tab-N-Action, Inc., is teaching boys aged 9-18 everything from how to tie a necktie to managing their finances.
Funded by the Ouachita Parish Police Jury and a state grant, the program aims to prepare young men for a world where suits and ties are the norm. Adult mentors guide participants through a range of essential skills, including proper dress, speech, and self-presentation.
One of the program’s recent focuses was teaching participants how to tie a necktie, a skill many found novel. “I can tie my tie now in less than 15 seconds,” boasted Roderick Hollins, a seventh-grader at Carroll Jr. High. Hollins learned a quick method from YouTube, demonstrating the program’s blend of traditional skills and modern learning techniques.
Beyond clothing, the Black Tie Guys learn crucial life skills such as dining etiquette, understanding formal table settings, and professional conduct. The program also emphasizes financial literacy, teaching participants how to start a youth business, count and save money, and manage their finances effectively.
The program uses an especially designed free app for iPhones and Androids called “black tie guys” and a website www.theblacktieguys.com to teach literacy, writing skills, and personal discipline to participants.
Tab-N-Action, Inc., the organization behind Black Tie Guys, has been promoting youth programs in the parish for over 40 years. Its structured programs have been recognized among the 1000 best in America. The organization is led by Robert Tanzy, Sr., Roosevelt and Joslyn Wright, and Brenda Wade.
Young men like Hollins are mastering life skills in the Black Tie Guys program.
Parents can learn more about the free program at the www.blacktieguys.com website or by downloading the program app to their phones.
Black Tie Guys learn neck tying skills
