The Seven Core Program Concepts
Every Academy program is built on seven Self-Actualization concepts — a non-clinical framework designed to guide Black fathers through a transformative journey of self-discovery, growth, and community responsibility.
Self-Actualizations
These seven concepts form the foundation of all Academy programming. They are not clinical diagnoses or therapeutic interventions — they are culturally grounded principles that meet Black fathers where they are and guide them toward who they are called to be.
Recognize Self
Know your landscapeTo develop a greater understanding of the plight of African American men and to examine the educational, economical, health and medicine, religious, political, family and community aspect of himself and others like him, as a Father of color.
Realize Self
Name the challengeTo identify the problems or potential problems as individuals and as a group, examine causes and effects and adjust.
Evaluate Self
Look inward honestlyTo have individuals examine themselves, their own thoughts and their own feelings and adopt new skills to make better decisions for better consequences.
Disclose Self
Challenge old narrativesTo give an opportunity for individuals the chance to challenge their own negative thoughts and feelings and compare both old and new philosophies.
Plan Self
Build a better pathTo teach problem solving skills and other life skills necessary to evaluate situations for more positive outcome consequence.
Commit Self
Own your responsibilitiesTo introduce the acceptance of responsibilities and the importance of being responsible and feeling confident about commitments.
Build Self
Lead in your communityTo learn to maintain and participate in civic duties to self, family and positive community lifestyle choices.
Recognize → Realize → Evaluate → Disclose → Plan → Commit → Build
Ready to begin your journey?
The Seven Core Concepts are the foundation — your transformation is the destination. Join the Academy and start where you are.