DILLON, SC (WBTW) – More than 30 young men ages 12 to 21 throughout the Dillon community spent their Saturday attending an “I AM BOYS Empowerment Summit”.
The goal of the program is to discuss life’s challenges, create a path to higher education and work to improve the lives of young men in Dillon County.
Topics of discussion included the importance of leadership, respect, preventing acts of violence and being career-focused.
Speakers included retired NFL football player John “Scrap Iron” Alford, military, state, and city leaders.
Each presenter shared strategies required of males on their journey to becoming role models in the community and within the state of South Carolina.
Organizers say the program is a stepping stone for the development of the Dillon County Boys and Girls Youth Center
“That center will basically give them a safe haven to go to do their homework, to do their other activities. Not just playing sports or basketball but to be productive in life… after school programs, reading programs, math programs,” said Kenny Smith, President of Dillon County Boys and Girls Youth Center.
Smith says he is beginning to work with Dillon City and County Council to fund the building. He says it will be the first activity center in Dillon County.
According to Smith, the land has been purchased for the center and will be located near the new Walmart.
