MARTIN COUNTY, NC — In response to the growing challenges faced by young males today, Martin County Schools has partnered with Koinonia Community Solutions to launch The Max Factor Leadership Institute, a proven empowerment and support initiative now entering its 12th year of impact. The program will be offered at no cost to parents or the school system.
Designed to foster leadership, character, and academic success, Max Factor will be available to eligible sixth-grade male students at Riverside and South Creek Middle Schools. The program’s guiding mantra—“Building Young Boys Into Young Men of Excellence”—reflects its mission to support students at a formative stage in their lives.
“We are very excited about this partnership and believe it will provide a positive, life-changing experience for our children,” explained Dr. Michelle White, Superintendent of Martin County Schools. “We have seen firsthand the dangers and pressures our teens face, especially males. I am confident that an effort like this, which targets young males with encouragement and reinforcement of their potential, will prove priceless for our county.”
Students must meet academic, attendance, and behavioral standards to participate. In return, they will engage in weekly mentorship, life skills training, character-building activities, and service-learning projects—all designed to build confidence, leadership, and a strong sense of identity.
“KCS is proud to expand Max Factor to Martin County,” said Watsi Sutton, Executive Director of Koinonia Community Solutions. “This program equips young men with the confidence and tools they need to succeed—not just in school, but in life. We’re grateful to Prison Alliance, Judge Regina Parker, Dr. Michele White, and Martin County Schools for helping make this possible.”
Program sessions will take place at Riverside Middle School, Monday through Thursday, from 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM. Students are expected to attend all meetings and events and wear appropriate program attire.
Each Max Factor participant will be guided by a positive reinforcement philosophy, anchored by a daily affirmation that reads: “I was created with great purpose. I am great.”
Coach Ron’Dayle Floyd will lead the Max Factor Leadership Institute in Martin County program. Program volunteers are encouraged to apply at www.koinoniasolutions.org/careers-volunteer.