The Father Center of New Jersey Launches Developing Young Men, Young Leaders Program
The Father Center of New Jersey is proud to announce the renaming of its innovative leadership program for young men. Formerly known as Healthy Relationships, Healthy Choices, the program will now be called Developing Young Men, Young Leaders (DYMYL)—a change that reflects the expanded scope of services it provides.
Rooted in a shared commitment to supporting young men during critical stages of development, the program equips participants with the tools, confidence, and emotional intelligence to make positive life choices and build respectful relationships.
What began as a community-led initiative is now becoming a fully integrated program of The Father Center of New Jersey—expanding its reach and aligning more deeply with the organization’s mission to empower fathers and future fathers. This integration creates a lasting framework for mentorship, emotional wellness, and life-skills training that will benefit young men across the region for years to come.
“We remain committed to the core mission of the program, which is to equip young men—starting in ninth grade—with the mindset and life skills needed to overcome obstacles and achieve lasting success: in school, in relationships, and in their communities,” says Marc Warren, COO of The Father Center of New Jersey. “The name change reflects a growing emphasis on workforce readiness, technical certification, and career placement.”
From the classroom to the workplace, DYMYL helps young men think creatively, act purposefully, and make positive decisions that lead to healthy, productive futures. Offered to students at Trenton’s Ninth Grade Academy, the program also automatically enrolls participants in the Boys & Girls Clubs of Trenton, giving them access to after-school enrichment, career development, tutoring, and recreation.
One day a week during the school year—currently on Mondays—participants are brought to The Father Center of New Jersey’s Trenton office to engage in workshop-style sessions on topics ranging from the consequences of unplanned fatherhood to mastering self-control to preparing for the workforce.
“DYMYL is more than a curriculum—it’s a transformative movement,” says Bryan Evans, CEO of The Father Center of New Jersey. “We’re helping students realize that success isn’t just about academics. It’s about resilience, character, and the ability to lead—starting with themselves.”
The program’s holistic approach encourages ongoing learning and real-world application. Guided sessions help students strengthen communication, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and leadership—empowering them to break generational cycles and become role models at school, at home, and in their communities.
“The program was initially conceived by our collaborators Calvin and Andre Thomas, led by visionary leader Karen Andrade-Mims, who retired in 2024 after more than 16 years at the helm of The Father Center of New Jersey,” states Evans.
As schools and families continue to navigate the social and emotional challenges facing youth today, DYMYL offers a vital layer of support. Participants gain not only academic confidence but also a deeper sense of self-worth and direction.
“Today’s young men are tomorrow’s leaders,” adds Warren. “Our mission is to help them become confident, thoughtful decision-makers. DYMYL meets them where they are and walks with them toward where they want to go.”
With deep roots in mentoring, fatherhood support, and community leadership, The Father Center of New Jersey remains committed to shaping the next generation of young men. DYMYL stands as a powerful testament to that commitment.
