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Obama Inauguration on Jan. 20! What a Historic Day!

As I watched Barack Obama's inauguration (while I was at work) on Jan. 20, 2009, I gave a special thanks to our ancestors and people of all races who fought to abolish slavery and risked their lives to end slavery, racism, voting disenfranchisement and so many other injustices.

There is no way that a President Barack Obama could ever be possible without the strength, courage and vision displayed by our forefathers and predecessors. For that, I will be eternally grateful!

People have asked me if I've always believed that a black man would be elected as President of the United States! My answer is, "Yes!" I didn't exactly know when it would happen, but I knew the dream would come to fruition "someday."

I never doubted it because I was fortunate enough to be raised by a "village" of caring, intelligent, encouraging and successful role models who made me feel that ALL things were possible! When I was a young boy in the 1980s, my family and friends used to frequently repeat a statement that really seemed empower us - "I AM SOMEBODY!"

The "I AM SOMEBODY" mantra was born from a poem that was written by Jesse Jackson in the early 1970s. When Jesse Jackson used to shout that phrase among large crowds, I used to get chills even back then because it filled me with so much pride and hope!

Every time Barack Obama speaks, he fills me with the same pride and hope that I felt during those days when Jackson used to lead us in the "I AM SOMEBODY" chants! However, Obama takes my pride and hope to another level because he makes Americans of ALL races feel like "WE ARE SOMEBODY!"

His dedication to our nation should never be questioned and I believe that he and his cabinet will get our country back on track! It's OFFICIAL! Obama is here!!!

PhxSoul.com wants to know your thoughts on Barack Obama's inauguration! What were your feelings as you watched the ceremony?

Mentoring, Leadership Programs and Activities for Black Youth in the Phoenix Area

In order for our children to survive and excel in today's world, it's extremely important for them to have responsible, caring and knowledgeable adult role models in their lives.

PhxSoul.com feels that it is extremely important to help African American youth find ways to build leadership skills, stay out of trouble and interact with other on a healthy level.

There are dozens, if not hundreds, of organizations in the Valley of the Sun for African American teenagers and children. You have youth ministries, sports leagues, performing arts groups, after-school programs, charities and many other groups. Moreover, there are probably thousands of organizations for kids and teens of all backgrounds!

If you are a parent in the Valley of the Sun, I encourage you to review the short list of African American and multicultural organizations to help OUR children achieve their full potential!

And of course, please click HERE to list the names and Websites of other youth-oriented groups in the PhxSoul.com Local Business Directory!

Youth Programs in the Valley of the Sun

• 100 Black Men of Phoenix - Dedicated to improving the quality of life of African Americans within the Phoenix metro area by enhancing educational and economic opportunities for all. The 100 Black Men of Phoenix take an active leadership role in helping minority youth become contributing, competitive, and valued members of society.

• Sigma Beta Club - Being an organization for young male students, gives them an opportunity to meet with each other on a regular basis outside the school atmosphere to discuss their interest and problems.

• Kappa League - Phoenix Kappa League is a youth mentoring, personal, academic and leadership development organization that provides career opportunities, inspiration and exposure to its members.

• Delta GEMS, Jabberwock programs - Aimed at providing personal and educational guidance for teenage girls in the Valley of the Sun. Hosted by Delta Sigma Theta's Phoenix Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter.

• Joyful Transformations, Inc. - community-benefit, 501(c)3 organization for tween and teen girls between the ages of 9-18 in the Phoenix community.

• Jack and Jill of Phoenix - Provide an avenue for our children to develop bonds that will foster spirituality, strong leadership skills, achievement and lifelong friendships.

• NAACP Youth Council - A branch of the NAACP in which youth are actively involved.

• COMPUGIRLS - A culturally relevant technology program for adolescent (grades 8-12) girls from Phoenix’s high needs districts.

• Big Brothers Big Sisters - Has a variety of programs designed to  align children in need with adult mentors.

• Boys and Girls Clubs of Metropolitan Phoenix - Enables all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.

• Boys and Girls Clubs of the East Valley - Club programs and services promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging and influence.

• African American Men of Arizona State University (AAMASU) - A student organization and High School-to-College (H2C) Program focused on increasing the recruitment, retention, and graduation rates of African American male high school and college students.

• Future Stars, Inc. - Future Stars was created to help students reach their full potential in academics and athletics.

PhxSoul.com also encourages you to read my "Activities for African American Children in the Phoenix Area" post if you are seeking fun, entertainment-oriented suggestions for younger children.

In addition, please visit our PhxSoul.com Youth section!