A REDDITCH charity which works with local boys to boost confidence and aspirations has been awarded a top national accolade.
Community outreach project Boys2Men encourages fathers and sons to bond through activities completed together – and has now been commended for its nine year’s of good work at the Houses of Parliament.
Nominated by Redditch MP Rachel Maclean, representatives from Boys2Men visited Westminster to receive the Inspirational Mentor Award from the Kids Count charity.
Boys2Men has worked with groups from local middle schools on a programme where dads and father figures are encouraged to strengthen the bond with their lads through outdoor pursuits and adventurous challenges.
As part of the scheme, boys were also invited to attend a free six-week course where father-son duos work on junk modelling projects together – whether making a bottle-rockets or racing cars.
“Boosting someone’s self-esteem and confidence has a knock-on effect to every aspect of their life,” said founder and director of the charity, Phil Williams.
“From school work and attendance, to family relationships, having a strong connection with their dad, and the sense of achievement that comes from working with him as part of a team, always has positive results.
“The junk-modelling also aims to show families that it doesn’t have to cost much money to enjoy time together.
“With a bit of imagination, you can create something worthwhile.”
Mrs Maclean said: “It was a huge honour to present Boys2Men with the Kids Count Most Inspirational Mentor Award.
“I nominated them because the work they do in supporting boys who are underachieving at school is invaluable.”
Individuals or schools interested in the work of Boys2Men can contact them in the Ecumenical Centre or call them on 01527 61580.
