Mark Abrams began mentoring two sixteen-year-old boys years ago. Each was struggling with challenges in their life. Mark took them under his wing, inviting them into his home, where he began teaching them their value and how to navigate difficult situations. These gatherings always included a meal — a time to sit, eat, and connect together.
Word quickly spread about the powerful mentoring work Mark was doing. What began with two young men grew to forty in just one year, and eventually expanded to over two hundred young men, ages sixteen and older. The majority came from troubled, fatherless homes, foster care, or households where fathers were unengaged. Mark provided them with a safe haven, a warm family atmosphere, and a place where they could share their voices, express dreams and aspirations, and receive guidance.
The results were life-changing. These young men went on to graduate high school, attend college, build families, and step into careers. Some became doctors, teachers, law enforcement officers, pastors, counselors, businessmen, influencers, and entrepreneurs.
As the first group of men aged out, Mark asked for their feedback. Almost unanimously, they said they wished the program had begun when they were much younger. Out of that insight, Forever Mentored was born.
Today, Forever Mentored begins with youth ages 7–13 in the first phase. The second phase focuses on those 14 and older, walking with them through high school, college, trade school, or military service. Importantly, every participant in the second phase commits to mentoring those in the first. This ensures that each person in Forever Mentored is either a mentee or a mentor, creating a cycle of growth, accountability, and legacy.
Team Leaders
Corey Hackett-Greene
Education and Community Coordinator
Mr. Corey Hackett-Greene is an influencer and former track/field team member of Virginia Tech and alumni. He loves education, fitness and connecting with the local community for service projects involving youth and young adults to enhance the community and to bring hope for those living in underprivileged areas. He will also oversee social media and the content for getting others involved and monitor youth development.
Stephanie Small
Lead Administration
Stephanie is a single mother who loves children and who is our liaison between our program and families. She also has a passion to see the trajectory of our youth change in regards to education, economics, social skills and spirituality. Stephanie as administrator will serve as helping families with various applications, in-take information, schedules and other programmatic related documents.
Herman Arce
Life and Social Skills Coordinator
Herman Arce has a business and sports background. He has worked as a basketball coach in schools, recreational centers and the local Salvation Army’s, creating leagues and team for youth. Currently, he is involved in the housing development investments and local a CDC. He is also a voluntary community liaison officer in his district. He will offer guidance to youth education, writing, reading and math skills coupled with money management and life development. He will also assist youth with getting in summer workforce programs and entrepreneurship exposure and college field trips.
Jon Mike Reichenbach
Sports Director and Camp Overseer
Mike Reichenbach is an experience member of the team. A former professional football player in the NFL with the Eagles, Dolphins and 49ers. Mike is keen to help youth pursue their dreams, particularly in the sports world and healthy lifestyle. He has formerly helped a number of young people get their first break in the sports industry. Mike is a regular speaking encouraging youth and men through the Word of God. As a mentor, he will provide guidance to youth and show them how they too can pursue a career in education and sports.
Mark Abrams
Developer/ Overseer of Forever Mentored
Mark Abrams has more than twenty-five years of experience mentoring and supporting underprivileged youth. He also served as the board chair for a local inner-city Columbia North YMCA for ten years. In addition, he has an entrepreneurial mind with a record of supporting young people in choosing career paths and helping them successfully start or expand their business ideas. Mark also offers many opportunities for youth and their families, coupled with character-building and ethical guidance.