ABOUT US
Derrick D. Watkins: Founder & CEO of Active Boys in Christ
Derrick D. Watkins is the Founder and CEO of Active Boys in Christ (ABC), established in 2017 to address the lack of skilled trade opportunities for youth in Flint, Michigan. After overcoming personal challenges, including dropping out of high school and becoming a licensed master electrician, Watkins created ABC to offer mentorship and hands-on training in trades like electrical work, plumbing, carpentry, and culinary arts. The organization has impacted over 515 youth, promoting values such as integrity and self-confidence, inspired by Frederick Douglass' quote, "It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men." Alongside his role at ABC, Watkins is the pastor of Jachin Baptist Church, with his wife, Christine, playing a key role in the organization. ABC has received support from community partners, empowering Flint’s youth to build successful futures.
Mission
To support and celebrate lifelong learning and community growth by empowering the youth and families of mid Michigan through skilled trades and life skills”.
Vision
Educate, Equipp, and Encourage youth for a better tomorrow!
Our Commitment
Our organization has been diverse since its inception. The ABC Youth Program is committed to racial equity by ensuring equal access to quality mentorship, and workforce development opportunities for all of Flint's youth. We strive to create pathways to success for all students, regardless of their racial background.
History of Active Boys in Christ (ABC)
A Journey Through
Inception and First Summer Program
Program Duration: June 22 – August 10 Participants: 15 boys from Flint Projects Completed:Dog houses (team project)Birdhouses, Soldered copper pipingLawn mower maintenance, Painting skills, Basic computer diagnostics, Car engine tips and Wired electrical devices Outcomes: Over 75% received certificates of completion.
Expansion with Dual Sessions
Program Duration: June 25 – August 10 Participants: 60 youth (30 per session) Weekly Focus:Plumbing – toilet and sink repairElectrical – switches, lights, receptacles, Carpentry – making floor mats, Culinary – cooking with a master chef at Rainforest Café Outcomes: Over 75% received certificates of completion
Adaptation Amidst the Pandemic
Program Duration: July 6 – July 31 Participants: 50 youth (due to COVID-19 restrictions) Projects: Construction of utility sheds with electrical and plumbing installations Life Skills Focus: Week 1: Honesty, Week 2: Compassion, Week 3: Respect, Week 4: Forgiveness Culinary Sessions: Youth cooked their own meals weeklyWEYImycitymag.com Outcomes:Over 75% received certificates of completion
Rehabilitation Projects and Community Outreach
Program Duration: July 5 – July 30 Participants: 64 youth Youth Projects: 7–12 years: Built benches, lamps, garden beds, and iron pipe shelves. 13–17 years: Rehabbed a house, installing windows, siding, plumbing, and electrical systems Major Achievement: Transformation of a condemned house into the Boaz Urban Center, now serving as a community outreach facility with literacy resources Outcomes: Over 75% received certificates of completion
Property Acquisition and Enhanced Programming
Participants: 75 youth Projects 7–12 years: Built wishing wells and flower trellises. 13–17 years: Rehabilitated the McClure house, including deconstruction and reconstruction tasks Character Traits Emphasized: Honesty, Generosity, Respect, Courage Culinary Sessions: Prepared meals like Mongolian beef, stuffed shells, and chicken taco pizza Volunteers: 72 individuals contributing over 1,300 hours Partnerships: Collaborations with Michigan State Police, Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, and Davison Police Department for public safety discussions Outcomes: Over 75% received certificates of completion
Continued Growth and STEM Integration
Participants: 75 youth Projects: 7–12 years: Built coat trees, picnic tables, mail/key racks. 13–17 years: Rehabilitated the Leith Street house, including siding, window installation, plumbing, and electrical work Culinary Sessions: Prepared dishes such as chicken tortellini, Italian risotto, and beef sliders STEM Activities: Built and programmed robots, enhancing critical thinking and technical skills Volunteer Engagement: 69 volunteers contributing over 900 hours Outcomes: Over 75% received certificates of completion
