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Our Program

Empowering Communities, Inspiring Future

The Purpose is dedicated to transforming lives through innovative programs that combine mentorship, cultural education, and creative expression. With over 31 years of experience, Roosevelt has impacted thousands of young people, fostering leadership, resilience, and entrepreneurial skills through initiatives like The BrotherHood and immersive experiences such as the Louisiana History Tour. By blending education, music, and photography, The Purpose celebrates history, builds community, and equips youth with the tools to thrive.

VISION AND IMPACT

Unique Activities

Learning Through Exploration and Expression

The BrotherHood is an in-school leadership program that provides a transformative experience for young men, blending historical education, community awareness, and personal development. Together, we explore pivotal historical events and landmarks, while diving into meaningful discussions about the issues impacting their communities and their journey into manhood. A unique focus of the program is the exploration of imagery and its profound influence on how cultures and societies are perceived. By analyzing media and visual storytelling, participants learn to critically assess how narratives are shaped and how they can take control of their own stories. Our learning doesn’t stop in the classroom. We take educational trips to historical and community landmarks to bring these lessons to life. This hands-on experience turns knowledge into a lived reality, creating lasting connections between the past, the present, and their own futures. To further amplify their voices, we empower the young men with cameras, teaching them to capture their perspectives and express themselves through their own lens if they so choose. Having them infront or behind the the lens! Equipping them with both the tools and the confidence to tell their stories, The BrotherHood cultivates a new generation of leaders and storytellers who are ready to impact the world.

Target Audience

Empowering Youth of Color Through Creativity and Opportunity

Our program is designed for African-American youth with a primary focus on young men ages 13-18 who have a passion for photography and self-expression. We aim to create a non-judgmental, supportive space where participants can explore their creativity, reframe perspectives shaped by societal standards, and learn practical skills that set them up for success all the while teaching our young people “being better than their stereotype” . Incorporating real-world perspectives and community we help our young people help themselves. By prioritizing inclusivity and community connections we strive to help foster positive contributing men of color back to our society, The Purpose ensures that every participant feels seen, heard, and valued.

Life Beyond the Program

A Lifelong Resource for Success

The Purpose goes beyond an 8-week curriculum, The Purpose strives to provide a space for youth to feel safe to be creative and learn and provide ongoing support for participants. Graduates can return to rent professional-grade photography equipment, empowering them to take their own journey through entrepreneurship, working paid jobs and building their portfolios. At The Purpose we want to build relationships with businesses creating Internship opportunities to connect youth with industry professionals, helping them gain real-world experience and expand their networks. In the future, we plan to offer career services, including resume building, entrepreneurial guidance, and mentorship, ensuring that every participant has the tools to turn their creative passion into a thriving career.

Ready to Help?

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PROGRAM GOALS

01 

Education and Mentorship

  • 31+ Years in Education
    Roosevelt has mentored thousands of students, focusing on African American youth. His culturally responsive approach bridges gaps in traditional education, equipping students with leadership skills and self-confidence.
     

  • The Purpose and The BrotherHood
    Through his non-profit, Roosevelt launched The BrotherHood, a leadership initiative providing mentorship, cultural education, and entrepreneurial training.

    • Programs Delivered: 10+ workshops annually, including life skills, leadership development, and career readiness.

    • Participants Impacted: Over 500 young men since 2013.

    • Signature Experience: The Louisiana History Tour, immersing youth in African American history and resilience.
       

  • Leadership Roles

    • Program Director for New Lens Urban Mentoring: Created The BrotherHood.

    • Youth Program Director at Ujamaa Place (2019–2025): Expanded support for young men transitioning into adulthood.

    • Twin Cities Program Director for Dreamline for Sanneah Foundation

02

Music and Cultural Advocacy

  • National and International DJ Performances
    As DJ Digie, Roosevelt has used music to connect generations and elevate Hip Hop culture.

    • Opened and Dj’d for legends like MC Lyte, Rakim, Keith Murray, and Big Boi of Outkast.

    • Official DJ for the 2023 Taste of Minnesota.

    • Served as a Hip Hop Delegate, promoting cultural understanding globally DJing in Cuba
       

  • Youth Engagement Through Music

    • Workshops in DJing and music production for youth organizations, fostering creativity and cultural pride.

03

Photography and Community Storytelling

  • Nine Years as a Professional Photographer
    Roosevelt’s photography highlights resilience, culture, and untold stories.

    • Featured Projects:

      • Hennepin Theatre Trust: Displayed along Hennepin Avenue.

      • US Exhibition: A powerful blend of Victorian fashion and Afrofuturism, celebrating Black resilience.

      • Published in The French magazine.
         

  • Collaborative Efforts

    • Partnered with organizations like the Boys and Girls Club and Youth Link to provide creative outlets for youth.

    • Notable Clients: LipEsteem, Nature’s Syrup, Ordway Theater, HBW Hair Extensions, Hennepin Theatre Trust, Ms Black Juneteenthm, Minnesota Museum of American Art, and more.

    • ICP Community Programs and THE POINT Community Development Corporation, 

    • Impact: Over 200 youth trained in photography as a tool for storytelling and entrepreneurship.

04

Cultural Advocacy

Roosevelt’s work across disciplines champions cultural pride and historical understanding.

  • Programs encourage youth to explore their history, understand systemic challenges, and build resilience.

  • Future Vision: Creating a community event center to integrate education, music, and photography, equipping youth with tools for success.

Looking Ahead

Roosevelt Mansfield’s vision is expansive: a community hub where creativity meets opportunity. By blending his roles as an educator, DJ, and photographer, Roosevelt seeks to create a space/Event Center for mentorship, cultural expression, and entrepreneurship.

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His work continues to inspire the next generation to embrace their heritage, be empowered to pursue their dreams and build brighter futures.

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