Blog Posts

Thank You!

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 18:27:18 +0000

As we reflect on 2025, one thing is abundantly clear: the work of Mentor On The Move 4 Life is only possible because of partners who believe in our mission and invest in our community. This year was filled with growth, resilience, and meaningful connection—and none of it would have been achievable without the unwavering support of our sponsors.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Hydro-Québec, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Urban Dove Astoria, and Arcadia for standing with us and helping turn purpose into action.

Partners in Progress

Each of our sponsors played a unique and vital role in strengthening the foundation of MOTM4L. Their support allowed us to expand programming, create safe and empowering spaces, and meet real needs within the community with intention and care.

Hydro-Québec demonstrated a powerful commitment to social responsibility, reinforcing the importance of investing in people and communities alongside infrastructure and innovation.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey went beyond support by helping provide resources that increased our capacity to serve, including mobility and access that directly benefit our outreach and impact.
Urban Dove Astoria continues to be a trusted partner in youth development, sharing our belief in second chances, mentorship, and holistic support for young people navigating complex systems.
Arcadia brought generosity and heart to our gatherings, ensuring our community felt welcomed, nourished, and celebrated—reminding us that care shows up in many forms.

More Than Sponsorship

What makes these partnerships so meaningful is that they are rooted in shared values. Our sponsors did not just fund programs—they invested in hope, dignity, and opportunity. Their belief in MOTM4L affirmed the importance of community-driven solutions and the power of collaboration.

Because of their support, we were able to serve with greater consistency, respond with greater compassion, and dream with greater confidence about what’s next.

Looking Ahead

As we move forward, we carry this gratitude with us. The impact made in 2025 will continue to ripple through our community for years to come. We are proud to partner with organizations that lead with integrity and purpose, and we look forward to building even more together.

Thank you for trusting MOTM4L, for standing with our mission, and for helping us create lasting change.

Certified Human Rights Consultant

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 16:12:11 +0000

At MOTM4L, our mission has always been rooted in dignity, equity, and empowerment. Every program we build and every young person we serve is guided by the belief that strong communities are created when people are seen, protected, and given the tools to thrive. That is why we are proud to share a major milestone for our organization: Lead Mentor Tyrone Gardner has successfully completed his training with the U.S. Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights, earning certification as a Human Rights Consultant.

This certification is more than a personal achievement—it is a powerful step forward for MOTM4L and the communities we serve.

Why This Certification Matters

Human rights are the foundation of safe, healthy, and resilient communities. As a Certified Human Rights Consultant, Tyrone now brings specialized knowledge in advocacy, ethical leadership, community protection, and rights-based approaches to problem solving. These skills align directly with MOTM4L’s commitment to uplifting marginalized voices, supporting youth development, and addressing systemic challenges that impact families and neighborhoods.

This training strengthens our ability to approach mentorship, programming, and community engagement through a global and ethical lens—ensuring that our work not only inspires, but also protects and empowers.

Enhancing Community Impact

With this certification, MOTM4L can deepen its impact in tangible ways. Human rights expertise allows us to:

Advocate more effectively for youth and families facing social and structural barriers
Educate community members about their rights and available resources
Design programs that promote equity, accountability, and long-term sustainability
Equip young leaders with a deeper understanding of justice, responsibility, and civic engagement

By integrating human rights principles into our mentorship model, we are preparing our participants not just to succeed individually, but to become informed leaders who uplift others.

Moving the Mission Forward

This achievement reflects MOTM4L’s commitment to growth, excellence, and intentional leadership. Tyrone’s certification reinforces our belief that real change happens when community leaders continue learning, evolving, and leading with purpose.

We are proud of this accomplishment and excited about the ways it will strengthen our work—today and for generations to come. Together, we are building a future rooted in respect, opportunity, and human dignity.

Celebrating Impact & Building the Future: Join Us at the MOTM4L Holiday Gala

Sat, 13 Dec 2025 01:11:32 +0000

Mentor on the Move 4 Life (MOTM4L) is excited to invite our community, partners, and supporters to our Holiday Gala on December 16 at 6:00 PM, hosted at Arcadia Bar and Kitchen. This special evening is more than a celebration—it’s a moment to reflect on what we’ve accomplished together and to boldly step into the future we’re building for our community.

We are deeply grateful to Arcadia Bar and Kitchen for generously sponsoring the food for the evening, helping us create a warm and welcoming space to gather, connect, and celebrate.

Honoring the Work—and the People—Behind It

Over the past year, MOTM4L has continued to show up for our community—mentoring youth, providing access to food through our weekly pantry, supporting senior citizens, and creating pathways to opportunity through hands-on programs like our barbering initiative.

The Holiday Gala is our chance to honor the mentors, volunteers, sponsors, donors, and families who make this work possible—and to say thank you.

Looking Ahead to 2026: Expanding Opportunity

As we look toward 2026, our vision is clear: more access, more opportunity, and more impact.

With continued support, MOTM4L plans to:

Launch another round of our barbering program in the summer
Continue our weekly food distribution pantry
Expand services for senior citizens in the community
Grow our STEM program with new computers and software to reach more youth
Add skill-based workshops, including cooking and business classes
Launch a MOTM4L basketball team to promote teamwork, discipline, and leadership
Host a two-day educational trip to Washington, D.C., exposing youth to history, civic engagement, and possibility

Each of these programs creates a foundation—one that helps young people and families build confidence, skills, and hope for the future.

A Heartfelt Call to Support

None of this happens without you.

Your donation—whether as an individual or a company—directly fuels programs that change lives. It helps a young person discover their purpose, ensures a family has food on the table, and gives seniors the dignity and support they deserve.

When you give to MOTM4L, you are investing in people, potential, and progress. You are helping us turn mentorship into momentum and opportunity into lasting change.

An Evening to Remember

The night will be hosted by comedian Steph Jones, bringing laughter, joy, and energy to an evening filled with connection and celebration. With great food, inspiring stories, and a shared commitment to community, the MOTM4L Holiday Gala promises to be a great time for all in attendance.

We hope you’ll join us on December 16—and if you’re unable to attend, we invite you to support the mission through a donation.

Together, we are building stronger futures.
Together, we move forward.

Building Connections and Celebrating Progress at the Queens Chamber of Commerce Holiday Gala

Sat, 13 Dec 2025 00:21:16 +0000

This year, members of the Mentor on the Move 4 Life (MOTM4L) team had the honor of attending the Queens Chamber of Commerce Holiday Gala, a signature gathering of leaders shaping the future of Queens. Invited by our valued sponsor Hydro-Québec, we were able to participate in an evening filled with inspiration, connection, and meaningful conversations about how local organizations can continue uplifting the community.

The gala brought together prominent business executives, civic leaders, and innovators committed to moving the borough forward. Among the standout interactions of the evening was a conversation with Cheryl McKissack Daniel, the 2025 Business Person of the Year and the President & CEO of McKissack & McKissack—the oldest minority/women-owned design and construction company in the nation. She shared powerful insights on how honoring legacy while embracing forward-thinking vision creates bridges that strengthen both community and industry. Her leadership and perspective resonated deeply with our mission at MOTM4L.

District 21 City Council Member Elect, Shanel Thomas Henry, also attended to gala imparting the importance of cooperation between community governance local business leaders. We all are enthusiastic to see the impact she brings to her district.

The President and CEO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce also delivered remarks that underscored the importance of fostering growth, connection, and opportunity throughout the borough. His message reflected the Chamber’s commitment to ensuring Queens remains a thriving place for businesses, nonprofits, and residents alike.

Adding to the significance of the evening, New York Governor Kathy Hochul was in attendance, emphasizing the importance of collective investment in community-driven progress across the state.

Strengthening Partnerships That Create Impact

Thanks to Hydro-Québec’s continued support, MOTM4L had the opportunity to engage with leaders who are championing change and shaping the economic and social landscape of Queens. These conversations not only highlight the work being done across the borough, but also inspire our efforts to expand mentorship, access, and opportunity for local youth and families.

We left the gala energized, encouraged, and excited about the collaborations and possibilities ahead.

Here’s to continued partnership, community progress, and a future where shared vision drives shared success.

Empowering Youth On and Off the Court: MOTM4L Hosts Basketball Clinic with Community Partners

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 21:51:18 +0000

Mentor on the Move 4 Life (MOTM4L) proudly teamed up with the Variety Boys & Girls Club of Queens to host an energizing and inspiring basketball clinic that brought together over 20 young athletes for a day of skill-building, mentorship, and fun.

Adding star power and heartfelt support to the event, New York native, former NBA player, and current Long Island University (LIU) Head Coach Rod Strickland joined us for the clinic — and he didn’t come alone. Coach Strickland brought several LIU basketball players who spent the afternoon engaging with the youth, teaching drills, sharing stories, and reinforcing the importance of discipline, teamwork, and confidence.

For the young participants, having access to high-level athletes and coaches on their home court was more than exciting — it was transformative. Many of the youth had the chance to ask questions, run plays alongside college athletes, and gain firsthand insight into what’s possible when hard work meets opportunity.

A Community Effort Made Possible by Generous Support

This special event was proudly sponsored by Hydro-Québec and Chaplain Hudson Power Express (CHPE), whose commitment to supporting youth programs made the clinic not only possible, but impactful. Their partnership continues to fuel MOTM4L’s mission to create pathways for growth through mentorship, sports, and hands-on learning.

Media Spotlight from News One

We were also excited to have News One on-site to capture the moments, amplify the event, and highlight the importance of community-centered youth programming. Their coverage helped share the story of how mentorship, athletics, and collaboration are shaping positive futures for young people in Queens.

More Than a Clinic — A Day of Possibility

The smiles, high-fives, and unforgettable interactions made this event one to remember. For MOTM4L, the clinic was another step in our commitment to creating safe, inspiring spaces where youth can learn, grow, and believe in what they can achieve.

We extend our gratitude to Rod Strickland, the LIU players, the Variety Boys & Girls Club of Queens, our sponsors Hydro-Québec and CHPE, and all the families and young athletes who joined us.

Here’s to more opportunities, stronger partnerships, and brighter futures — one court, one connection, and one young person at a time.

Celebrating Leadership: Tyrone Gardner Receives Urban Dove’s Making a Difference 2025 Award

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 04:05:22 +0000

We are thrilled to share that our Founder and Lead Mentor, Tyrone Gardner, has been honored with the Making a Difference 2025 Award by Urban Dove Charter School — a recognition that speaks to his dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to empowering young people.

For the past two years, Tyrone has partnered closely with Urban Dove to mentor students weekly, offering guidance, life skills, and consistent support. What began as a 10-week pilot program has now grown into a full school-year initiative, with three additional mentors a testament to the program’s impact and to the MOTM4L team's ability to connect deeply with the youth they serve.

A Mentor Who Shows Up—Every Week, Every Season

Tyrone’s leadership is rooted in presence. Week after week, he brings encouragement, structure, and positivity to the classroom. Whether he’s coaching students through personal challenges, helping them set goals, or simply giving them the space to be heard, his influence has created a safe and transformative environment.

Students and staff alike have shared how Tyrone’s mentorship has strengthened confidence, motivation, and community within the school—and this award reflects those collective voices.

A Well-Deserved Recognition

The Making a Difference award celebrates individuals who go above and beyond to uplift their communities and have an impact on the students, and Tyrone does that effortlessly. His work with Urban Dove is an example of what happens when mentorship meets heart: lives are shaped, opportunities grow, and futures open up.

We are incredibly proud of Tyrone for this achievement and grateful for his continued leadership within Mentor on the Move 4 Life.

Looking Ahead

With the expansion of the program and continued collaboration with Urban Dove, we’re excited to see even more students benefit from this work. Tyrone’s award is not just a milestone—it’s motivation to keep building, keep showing up, and keep making a difference.

Congratulations, Tyrone! Your impact continues to inspire us all.

A Year of Impact: Celebrating the Success of Our Weekly Community Food Pantry

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 21:54:10 +0000

As we close out another meaningful year at Mentor on the Move 4 Life, we are reflecting with gratitude, pride, and renewed commitment. One of our greatest accomplishments in 2025 has been the consistent success of our weekly community pantry—a lifeline of support for families, seniors, and individuals facing food insecurity.

What began as a vision to make food more accessible has grown into a vibrant, welcoming hub of community care. Every week, we distributed food to familiar faces, built new connections, and strengthened the sense of belonging that defines our mission. The pantry has become more than a service—it has become a place of hope.

Building Community, One Week at a Time

Through this initiative, we distributed thousands of food items, supported countless households, and created opportunities for volunteers to give back in meaningful ways. Every smile, every “thank you,” and every shared conversation reaffirmed why this work matters.

As we look ahead to the coming year, we remain committed to expanding our reach, strengthening partnerships, and continuing to address food insecurity with compassion and purpose.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Hydro-Québec

This year’s progress would not have been possible without the generosity and partnership of Hydro-Québec. Their sponsorship played a critical role in ensuring that shelves were stocked, fresh produce was available, and families had dependable access to the food they needed. Their commitment to supporting local communities has made a tangible difference, and we are deeply grateful for their continued dedication to feeding and uplifting those we serve.

To everyone who volunteered, donated, supported, or visited our pantry—THANK YOU! Your presence fuels our mission.

Here’s to another year of community, connection, and collective impact.

Every step we take together transforms a life.

From Clippers to Confidence: How Astoria Teens Are Building Their Futures Through Mentorship

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 21:55:36 +0000

When you hand a young person a pair of clippers, you’re not just teaching them a trade — you’re giving them the tools to shape their own story.

This fall Mentor on the Move 4 Life, proudly celebrated the graduation of seven student barbering apprentices, each completing training hours toward their New York State barbering license.

For many of these students, this wasn’t just about learning how to fade or line up — it was about finding confidence, discipline, and a sense of purpose. Through MOTM’s mentorship model, each apprentice was paired with a professional mentor who guided them not only in technique, but in entrepreneurship, client care, and community impact.

“It’s more than cutting hair,” said one apprentice. “It’s about learning who I am and how I can help others look and feel their best.”

These young barbers represent what’s possible when mentorship meets opportunity. MOTM4L is expanding its vocational programs in 2026 to include culinary artsand STEM-focused experiences, opening even more doors for local youth.

Because when confidence grows — so does the community.

Your contribution helps create hands-on learning opportunities that turn skills into futures. Donate here to support Mentor on the Move’s barbering, STEM, and culinary training programs for youth across Queens.