My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) Pittsburgh is an initiative that originated from the Obama administration to address persistent opportunity gaps faced by boys and young men of color and ensure all young people can reach their full potential.

The City of Pittsburgh has embraced former President Barack Obama's call to action for “My Brother's Keeper.” Mayor Ed Gainey is implementing a cross-sector alliance with firm commitments to join the administration's effort in creating a more equitable and inclusive Pittsburgh.

Together we can build unity and improve our beautiful city where all our residents, especially boys and young men of color, are safe and free from violence, feel welcome, see themselves in a positive manner, and have equitable access to opportunities that allow them to thrive in Pittsburgh.

After reviewing demographic, social, economic, and crime data as well as numerous community and academic reports, our advisory committee members and staff have been diligently planning and strategizing to reignite and move forward the work around MBK by structuring our community network to meet the needs of every Black man and boy.

MBK Pittsburgh wants to create a region where our Black men and boys are: safe and free from violence, feel welcome and see themselves in a positive manner, and have equitable access to opportunities that allow them to thrive.

The My Brother's Keeper initiative seeks to address the unique challenges faced by individuals within our high- and extreme-need communities by providing a platform for mentorship, educational resources, employment opportunities, and community engagement through six key milestone goals:

1. All of our children enter school cognitively, physically, socially, and emotionally prepared.
2. All of our children read at grade-level by third grade.
3. All of our young people complete post-secondary education or training.
4. All of our young people graduate from college.
5. All of our youth who have graduated from college or a training program are employed.
6. All of our young people are safe from violent crime, and those who need it, receive the second chance they deserve.

Mayor Gainey and his administration are dedicated to improving the current condition within all six milestone goals through partnership and collaboration to provide wrap-around services and resources for our Black men and boys within the City of Pittsburgh. Together we can foster a sense of belonging and support to empower individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential.