Who We Are
Great Oak serves youth ages 6 to 18 years old. Youth may be referred to Great Oak by school officials, community officials or by parent/guardians.
In order to participate in Great Oak, boys and their parent/guardian must initially attend a Great Oak Orientation session which is held once a month. Interested parties may call (910) 822-2226 to schedule orientation attendance. Upon completion of orientation, application may be made to various Great Oak programs.
Great Oak is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt non-profit organization. The mission of Great Oak Youth Development Centers is to provide a foundation for achievement and success among male youth by directly providing mentoring, educational assistance, leadership and life skills training, and cultural awareness activities. Great Oak and its community of supporters believe there is a significant need among male youth, particularly African America males, for assistance in these areas in order to increase their odds of becoming productive American citizens.
Education is that whole system of human training within and without the school house walls, which molds and develops men.
Our Story
Great Oak Youth Development Centers, Inc. was conceptualized in June of 2006 based on discussions on the unacceptable socio-economic plight of minority male youth. Having heard, observed, and lived the overwhelming odds facing minority male youth, a small group of individuals decided to study the organizing of a formal effort to address these issues.
After a few informal meetings to discuss moving ahead with the initiative, in August of 2006 Great Oak Youth Development Center was formally incorporated and subsequently validated in September 2006 as a educational charity.
Great Oak has moved rapidly in implementing a variety of foundation building programs that increase the odds of achievement and success. All programs are continuously evaluated and reviewed for effectiveness. Our most recent update was the addition of after school programs. These include math, reading, robotics, technology and mentoring, giving students more opportunities to expand their horizons.
Our staff
Miguel Pitts Executive Director
Bobby Washington Mentor
Herman Dudley Mentor