THE PROGRAM works with teenagers with high-growth potential in high-risk situations.
Leading by Example
Posted November 19, 2009
DANIELS MENTORS in Memphis with his Leaders and Learners program.
TYREE DANIELS doesn’t have any children of his own. But there are already dozens of young men and women who consider him a father figure who has made a difference in their lives.
Take Jonathan*, for example. He’d recently moved to Memphis with his mother and her new husband. Although he was a straight-A student in his previous school, Jonathan’s grades were dropping precipitously, and his demeanor was becoming increasingly turbulent in the new environment. One of his teachers knew something was seriously wrong. Six foster homes and seven schools later, Jonathan found himself in an unimaginably dire situation. And then Tyree entered his life.
Eight years ago, Tyree, who has worked at Morgan Keegan since graduating from college, started a youth mentoring program called Leaders and Learners. “Several of my friends are educators and we got to talking about some of their students who had high-growth potential, but were in high-risk situations,” says Tyree. “We decided we really wanted to band together to work with these kids outside of school, spend time with them, and help them to take responsibility for things that are within their control.”
The Leaders, who are currently mentoring 22 teenagers, plan a program that strikes a balance between structure and just plain fun. “Our first goal is always to expose them to good behaviors by being models of good behavior,” says Tyree. Each person gets individual attention that is tailored to his or her needs, whether it’s tutoring in challenging subjects, counseling, or spending a little free time shooting hoops. They also have opportunities to interact with others in the program through group activities, such as going to cultural events and volunteering time for community projects. The men also place older participants in part-time internships, so they can begin learning important marketplace skills. And of course they leave plenty of time to simply listen. “If you think about it, sometimes all we need is someone to talk to,” says Tyree. “When you’ve had a bad day at school, you need to unload. Many of these children have parents who don’t take the time or maybe they can’t because they’re single parents working overtime to support the family. The kids know they can call us whenever they need us, and believe me, they do.” Tyree estimates that he and his friends each devote about 15 hours a week to the program, and they completely self-fund it.
The greatest reward for the group’s efforts, of course, is seeing a child overcome obstacles and succeed. But Tyree admits there have been lessons and benefits in it for himself as well. “These kids have taught me so much patience, and they’ve given me more gratitude for my own life,” he says. “No matter how significant I ever think my problems are, someone else is always struggling more. But I believe we can all change direction–and the course of our lives–with a lot of discipline, a little help, and a bit of luck.”
As for Jonathan? He’s thriving and now a sophomore at a prestigious college, where this semester he received a scholarship to study abroad. “When he left for Europe, it was the first time he’d ever been on a plane,” says Tyree, with a father-like pride in his voice. With Jonathan’s renewed commitment to achieve his highest potential and the continued foundation of Leaders and Learners, he’s destined for nothing but clear skies ahead.
TYREE DANIELS is Vice President of Public Finance Fixed Income Banking with Morgan Keegan
* Name changed to protect privacy
comments (61)
Wow Tyree! what an amazing gift to these young people and I am sure must be rewarding to you. I can't imaging finding an extra 15 hours a week, but let me know if I can help in any way! Debra
Debra LeJeuneTyree I am so proud of you and what you are doing, keep up the good work.
Larry MyersAmazing story! Tyree THANKS for all that you do to help our youth. You have to wonder what the world would be like if we had more people like you in it. It's always good to hear things like this. The youth are the future. Thanks again Tyree! Keep up the good work.
Cinda HoneycuttWhat a honor to be able to positively contribute to the lives of young people who lack direction or are considered at -risk! Many young people just need mentors who are willing to give of theimselves and their time to help them find purpose and hope. Giving of yourself and time is a selfless act that encourages young people who lack direction and motivation to look forward to a better life and a brighter future. It also gives them the courage to make a positive contribution in society by helping others who may face the simular situations and circumstances. Outstanding program!!
Pamela HarrisGREAT JOB TYREE!! Just knowing that there is someone who is willing to help you through life's tribulations is a true blessing. Mentoring these kids can take them to much higher levels in life! THANKS:)
LETITIA NELSONTyree thanks for sharing your story. "Success in life has nothing to do with what you gain in life or accomplish for yourself. It's what you do for others." -Danny Thomas I wish you continued success in all that you do.
Lajuana BradfordI truely believe people are put in your life for a reason all you have to do is listen to your calling. Continue helping the youth because you are much needed!
Phillicia JohnsonInspiring!!! Thanks for sharing with me.
Laura FountainTyree, the sacrifices you make to help these kids is obviously making a difference in their lives. It is an inspiring thing that you are doing and I know you will be blessed.
Laura LopezWow, Tyree. I am glad to read your story. It forces us to stop and realize that no matter how bad we may think things are, everyone has his/her share of problems. Bless you for taking your time and energy to help others thrive. And best wishes to Jonathan - know that you contributed to his success!
MelissaThat is inspiring, beautiful, and selfless. I think about how much your investment in him will continue to be a blessing to all those he will come in contact with... Thank you!
Erika W. orlando, flTyree, thanks for carrying your vision to fruition, for being available, and for seeing the good in a younger generation that others didn't take the time to see.
Matt DennisTyree, This is such an amazing program that you have started. I think it is wonderful that you and your friends dedicate so much time to this program. Keep up the awesome work!
Leslie GodfreyIn the program that Tyree and others are leading, there is potential for each one involved. Tyree and others are being taught valuable lessons by the children they are mentoring. It shows the meaning of the phrase--"each one teach one." Mentoring does show our young people that someone cares--someone that is not obligated by family roles. One suggestion to Tyree and his group would be to get the youth involved in visiting nursing homes and they would be overwhelmed by the love they would get back from strangers. Keep up the good work, Tyree!
Judy BatesThis was truly inspirational Tyree. Thanks for what you do!
Trina MaxwellWOW..!! This is so touching and inspiring. I have always had a heart for mentoring to young kids and assisting them in making the right choices in life. I tell my own kids that "LIFE IS CHOICE DRIVEN" and its what you make of it with the leading and guiding of your parents and the lord...I can relate to this being I came up in single parent household. I wish I would have had mentors like you -Tyree and your dedicated friends around when i was growing up as a teenager. Tyree, may God richly bless you and keep up the good work..!!
Demiracle JeffersonYou know not many people without children would do something so selfless like giving up their time to help children grow to great men and woman. This program sounds wonderful and I would love to be a part of something so great. I am one of those mothers trying to make a living but also trying to help me children learn and be proud of themselves.
Toni WolfPeople like you make a difference. It sholud be rewarding to know because of you we can have another Tyree Daniels.
Ava ElridgeSimply Amazing! I am so proud to know that there are still positive role models in today's society. I have always wanted to partake in an outreach program, but to actually put it in motion has only been a thought until now. I appreciate Regions for sharing your story. It has motivated me to do more than expected.
Katrina FergusonEvery child needs a mentor. It takes someone special to step up to the role and guide these kids to become adults with discerning characters. Thanks Tyree
Ete Asuquo. ARTyree, an amazing testimony! Thanks for sharing.
Joyce WrightAwesome!! This is a wonderful thing you and your friends are doing, keep up the good work.
Teresa BlairThis is truly a selfless act of kindness....
Barbara DolesIt is so nice to see that there are people that I work with who are as committed as I am to growing our youth into responsible members of society. I hope God continues to bless you and your program.
Susan RushingThe world need more people like you and the others. Too many kids fall between the cracks. Thanks for your willingness to be a mentor to young people.
Cheryl LuskSupporting children and especially young adults, to achieve their potential, can be a slow slog, that tests your patience; however, you should be commended on your patience and investment in humanity.
Ray MulhollandTyree I want to Thank you for being such a great example for our youth. It is important to lead them with understanding and a compassion to do good. Congrats
Deborah PeddingtonThis is awesome!! Only God knows what trouble you're getting those students out of. Students are so vulnerable at that young age, but having role models like Tyree and his friends will definitely help them make the right decisions. Thank you for taking your time to better their future.
Emy SozaTyree keep changing lives what you are doing is definitely not going unnoticed. These children are our future and the elders are continuing to impact the present with all you guy's help and support. You are a light in this dim world.
LaTasha WrightThis is a wonderful program you created. How awesome it must feel to make a difference! Continued blessings with the program!!
Ella ShakeelTyree you are a role model for others to follow. It takes a village to raise children. I hope your story inspire others to do the same.
Karen StollingsTyree, Memphis need more people like you and your friends. Keep that amazing progarm going!!
Amanda LaymonTyree, Leaders and Learners will never know how much of an impact you all have become in these kids lives. These days our children not only need financial support but Love, Affection and like you said sometimes they need to just have someone to talk to. Continue to do what you are doing and my prayer is God will continue to richly bless you and your organization.
Clarissa ThurmanThat amazing it 's wonderful that kids have a positive role model to look up in the business world not just in sports. Keep up the good work.
Diana H SmithThank you Tyree for your awesome example!!!
Michelle Robinsoni just want you to know that you are doing a great job and keep up the good work their are so many of our children that are lost out in this world and they don't have anyone to guild them so they are trying to do the best they can and some times they fall in the hands of a person that has misguilded them and before the know it the are caught in something that they can't control .you have given these kid's something to look forward to they need someone to make them feel safe. this is a big world and although they act like they know what they are doing we aldults know they have no clue until it's to late so again in give big up's to what you are doing and I just want to say thank's because every one you can save now will help us later.
MONIQUE PURNELLGreat job!!! Keep up the excellent work you are doing today, for it will make a difference tomorrow!!
Charsley HollinsTHANK YOU! Tyree We need more positive role models willing to give of their time and efforts to help support today's youth. Please continue doing what you do. There are many more children who just need that extra "push" to make it through to the other side. I've learned through my own volunteer efforts that it's true what they say "Love CAN move mountains".
Deborah DavisWhat an amazing program! I'm proud to know that such a powerful program exists in our community which needs it so much. You make Memphis a better place to live!
Amy D. MooreTyree what a great way to give back and help support our community. I think the young people that you all are helping will one do the same for others. Thanks for what you do!
Bryan ThomasThat is a wonderful story. We need more people like you in this world. The future of America should be invested in our youth. Thank You Tyree!
Kimberly BrooksI am so proud of you. You are doing a great job and I have shown this article to all of my co-workers just like a proud mom would.
Sarah CoakerThat's Amazing! What a great story and outstanding program!! Tyree that inspires me to want to do more within my community. I too was considered an at-risk youth at one point. I went through many obstacles and unfortunately I faced the consequences. If it weren't for this one individual showing me the positive side to life I wouldn't be here today. So I know how beneficial a program like this can be. Please keep up the good work and you guys inspire me to get involved. Thanks!!
Frankie JobeWhat a great opportunity for the kids you guys touch. This story truly shows what can happen when ability and desire come together.
D W JohnsonWow! This is a prime example of what we all should be doing in our life, serving others. Thanks for inspiring me to do the same!
Michelle, Memphis TN.There is always a Ram in the Bush..........GOD is using you as that Ram in the Bush to share your light with someone.....You will be blessed for your good works. Your story has really giving me some inspiration. The reason is that no matter how bad your situation may be, someone has a situation that is worst than yours. May GOD continue to bless you so that you can continue to bless others!!
PhyllisYou always hear about all the bad stuff happening in Memphis. It is so refreshing to hear a unlifting and postive story. Keep up the good work Tyree.
Charlotte Lawson ARBeautiful story! This story validates that if "each one reach one", the results can be remarkable.
Felicia VickersWhat an inspring way to start my morning.... I read this story from Tyree's experience and I thought to myself, how can I give back more to my community? Thank you
gail collinsIf the world had MORE people like yourself it would be a BETTER place. Thanks for caring.
Connie GrammerTyree it is always good to hear of someone taking the time to make a different in someone else life, to me especially the youth. The youth is our future and if we do not invest in them we are looking at a terrible future. I you make a different in one person life, they make a different in another one and the chain continues. So you and your friends keep up the good work and may God blessing be apart of it.
Georgia KirbyHow incredible! I'm so impressed with Tyree and his selfless efforts to assist the children in his own town. Very inspiring story.
Lorraine Zimmerman - Gainesville PTIts good to know we have positive role models who are concerned about the future for youth at risk. Keep up the good work. I'm sure your story has inspired others to give a hand to those in need.
Tracie MorrisWe need more people just like you. You are a blessing and I myself need to step up. Thanks for sharing your story. I know God will bless you.
Susana CirinnaTyree, you are a great source of encouragement and inspiration to myself an others. I also work with a Mentoring Program and know the reward in helping others to achieve their goals in life. When you pour into the lives of these young people you have become their friend for the rest of their lives. They will never forget you. Thanks for showing the world that you care.
Gertrude BourgeoisThat is a very inspiring story about Jonathan. And to think that is only one of the many that you guys are going to help! I always look up to and admire people like you and the youth that are putting effort into making life better.
Scotti AlkireReading this story gave me chills. There are so many of our children that need attention from someone no matter how big or small. It was was very gratifying to see a successful man giving back to the community. Thank you for instilling positive knowledge, understanding and hope to our youth! God Bless you TYREE and the organization that you have established.
Vanessa HargroveThis is a beautiful story and a true example that if you just listen to these children and be there for them, they'll build the confidence to fight for their own futures. We all can help in our own ways, and I hope more people read this and it has the same effect on them. You and your story are truly inspiring.
AndreaTyree you are doing a remarkable job with the youth of tomorrow, not meaning people will have the patience you are demonstrating or time, keep up the wonderful work.
LaTessia JamesGreat job Tyree!! God blesses us so that we may be a blessing to others. We are here to help each other. Heaven is a prepared place for prepared people. Earth is our preparing ground. Keep the blessings flowing Regions!!
v williamsKeep up the good work. Kids are our future and they need the motivation to make a change and a difference in someone else's life. Good examples are needed for our younger generation.
Lawanda Singleton