Octavius L. Blount
Advocate, Writer, and Mentor in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Octavius L. Blount is a leader, thinker, innovator, and proud South Philadelphia native. Currently, he serves as Coordinator for the Mayor’s Office of Black Male Engagement - tasked to support the moving of the needle with creating an equitable Philadelphia for men and boys of color by eliminating disparities and creating opportunities. Octavius has 11 years of experience as a youth advocate, 6 years in the field of Black Male Achievement/Engagement, 2 years of experience as a behavioral intervention specialist with young Black men. Additionally, he is a son, family man and God-fearing.
Octavius lives by "everyone has the potential to succeed but not all have the opportunities to succeed" He wants to be that role model, mentor, pathfinder, or resource to guide the youth of all races to a future that reflects their passion and skill.
"It is easier to build strong children than it is to repair broken men" - Frederick Douglass
Octavius is educating himself towards changing and transforming narrative of black men and boys in Philadelphia.
Octavius' professional affiliation and appointments include:
Founder & Director, The G.A.A.M.E Project
https://www.facebook.com/TheGAAMEProject/
Coordinator, Mayor's Office of Black Male Engagement
https://mayorsofficeofblackmaleengagement.wordpress.com/
Engagement and Advocacy, Intern, MENTOR IR
Advisory Council member, MENTOR IR
Workforce Development Coach, Episcopal Community Services
EW Social Worker, EducationWorks Youth Court
Vice President of I.M.P.A.C.T - Intelligent. Men of Color. Accomplishing. College. Together
Chairperson Community Outreach Committee, Black Alumni Association at Arcadia University
Member / Planning Team, Black Male Development Symposium (BMDS)
http://blackmaledevelopment.com
Assistant Instructor, Red Tiger TKD
Peer Mentor, Arcadia University
Teacher Assistant, Arcadia University
Youth Mentor, Teen UpRise http://www.teenuprise.org
He has received numerous awards including:
Funtimes Magazine’s 30 Under 30 to Watch - February 2018inductee
Inaugural Arcadia University "40 Under 40" - January 2018 inductee
Academic Perfect Attendance – September 1998