U-M Alumnus Giving Back to Ann Arbor Community

Posted: Sep 21, 2012 at 4:08 PM [Sep 21, 2012]

Lauren Ramsey, MPH
Assistant Director
Champions Mentoring Program
championsmentors@gmail.com

September 20, 2012 (Ann Arbor, MI) – University of Michigan graduate and resident of Ann Arbor, Jason Phillips is
the Founder and Executive Director of Champions, a mentoring program dedicated to generating inner respect, self-
worth, and academic achievement for at risk African-American males in southeast Michigan.

In response to the social-economic drawbacks in their community, Phillips, Assistant Director, Lauren Ramsey, along
with a team of dedicated volunteers established “Champions” to create a positive environment where young men can
openly express themselves, define goals, and feel comfortable accomplishing them without criticism from their peers.

“While studying at the University of Michigan, I noticed the Ann Arbor community needed a support system for at-risk
youth (especially black males) who lack the life guidance to avoid negative outcomes such as drug use, jail, or
suspension from school,” said Phillips. “I believe our program offers the opportunity to fill that void in these young
men’s lives; thus, increasing their chances for success.”

About Champions:

Established in 2012, Champions is a regional mentoring program providing guidance, education, and encouragement
to African-American males ages 12-14 in southeast Michigan. The program is designed to increase academic
performance, community involvement, emotional stability, as well as financial literacy among its participants.

The organization meets weekly at the Bryant Community Center on Mondays from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. An
informational session for interested volunteers will be held at Bryant Community Center on Monday, October 1, 2012
from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m.

About the Director:

Phillips is a product of the Detroit Public Schools system as well as a single parent home and understands the
problems today’s youth face. With the aid of friends, family, and community leaders, he has been able to overcome
life’s obstacles through education and constructive activities. Phillips obtained his BS in Psychology from Eastern
Michigan University and a Masters in Social work from the University of Michigan. His desire is to give back to the
community that provided him with support through his adolescence.

For more information about Champions, please email Jason Phillips at championsmentors@gmail.com