The Zeta Omega Fatherhood and Mentoring Committee is a dynamic force for change that delivers upon our Cardinal Principles while addressing and advocating for the social, educational, community, and economic needs of the greater Cleveland metropolitan area.

Manhood: Omega Men at the Forefront

The Fatherhood and Mentoring Committee establishes and fosters a sense of empowerment, equity, and justice through various community-centered initiatives in underserved communities. Our central mission for the 2024 – 2025 fiscal year is steadfast: Mobilize Omega Men (and fathers) through our Basileus’ strategic initiatives and strengthen our collective impact on the community while generating internal revenue for the Zeta Omega Chapter.

Scholarship: Educational Excellence and Achievement

In the spirit of Scholarship, the Fatherhood and Mentoring Committee champions academic activities that illuminate paths of opportunity for young minds. By recognizing and nurturing academic talent, we strive to inspire a tradition of educational pursuit and excellence within the African American community. Partnering with The Ginn Academy, JFK High School, Daniel E. Morgan Elementary School, United EEG Corporation, EEG Family and Early Learner Foundation, and Bedford City School District creates opportunities to engage families, mentor scholars, and strengthen the community through educational programs.

Perseverance: Moving Forward Despite All Obstacles

We must persevere politically as we approach the critical juncture of the 2024 U.S. presidential and local elections. Voter registration drives are major program activities for the Fatherhood and Mentoring Committee. Omega Men recognize the power of the vote and ensure that every voice in our community can be heard. Through educational campaigns and registration initiatives, we aim to enhance civic engagement and uphold the democratic values vital to our organization.

Uplift: Collaboration and Community Engagement

Through our focused social action programs: reclamation programs, community service, scholarship, voter registration, and fundraising—the Fatherhood and Mentoring Committee deepens Zeta Omega’s enduring legacy of service and leadership within the greater Cleveland community. Uplifting underserved communities and generating new corporate and private partnerships offer new opportunities for real revenue growth and measured social action.

The Zeta Omega Youth Leadership and Mentoring Academy is a 12-month initiative designed to develop and nurture young men into future leaders.

The program is built around the core principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift, offering a structured environment for personal and academic growth. This program features an overlap between the Zeta Omega Fatherhood Initiative and Mentoring activities. Additionally, this program features one-on-one mentor-mentee relationships, virtual sessions, and monthly touchpoints to ensure continuous engagement and development.

We empower fathers to build stronger families, foster positive father-child relationships, and contribute positively to their Cleveland, Ohio communities.

Extract from Mentor.org

"Mentoring relationships are a shared opportunity for learning and growth. Many mentors say that the rewards they gain are as substantial as those for their mentees, and that mentoring has enabled them to:

- Have fun!

- Achieve personal growth and learn more about themselves Improve their self-esteem and feel they are making a difference Gain a better understanding of other cultures and develop a greater appreciation for diversity

- Feel more productive and have a better attitude at work

- Enhance their relationships with their children

- Above all, a good mentor is willing to take the time to get to know their mentee, to learn new things that are important to the young person, and even to be changed by their relationship."