The Young Men of Vision Mentoring Program (Y.M.O.V.) is the middle school component and first tier of the three-tiered youth organization, Gentlemen of Vision Rites of Passage Enterprises, Inc. Founded in 2010 by Mr. Quintton Williams and Mr. Tedros Solomon on the campus of Westview Middle School in St. Louis, Missouri, Y.M.O.V. was created from a powerful belief: that mentorship must begin early to prepare boys for success in high school, in life, and in leadership.
What started as a single-school initiative has grown into a community-based program serving young men across the St. Louis metropolitan area. Over the years, Y.M.O.V. has become a trusted space where middle school boys are equipped to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Our Mission
Y.M.O.V. exists to transform boys into young men who are socially responsible, academically prepared, and future-focused. We believe in creating a culture of discipline, brotherhood, and purpose—empowering members to rise above negative influences and lead with integrity.
Our Core Concepts
At the heart of Y.M.O.V. are four guiding principles, which shape every aspect of the program:
- Academic Performance – Fostering excellence in the classroom and a love for lifelong learning.
- Brotherhood & Unity – Building a strong sense of belonging and mutual accountability.
- Community Service – Developing servant-leaders who contribute to the well-being of their neighborhoods.
- Discipline & Attitude – Instilling the focus, respect, and resilience needed to succeed in life.
Our Signature Program: Stepping
Stepping is one of Y.M.O.V.’s most powerful tools for teaching discipline, teamwork, and precision. Our step team is consistently ranked among the nation’s best, with three national championships to date. Members travel across the country to compete, visit colleges, and participate in team-building experiences that broaden their horizons and build lifelong memories.
Combating Negative Influences
We intentionally counteract the lure of gangs and negative peer pressure by giving young men what they crave most—a brotherhood that uplifts and challenges them. By providing a healthy, structured, and affirming community, we help our members avoid destructive paths and step confidently toward a brighter future.
The Path Forward
Y.M.O.V. is not just a program—it’s a pipeline of success. Upon completion of the middle school program, members transition into our high school program, Gentlemen of Vision (G.O.V.), where they continue to grow as leaders and mentors. By this stage, they have already built a strong foundation of belonging and purpose, making them far less likely to be derailed by negative influences in high school.
Together, Y.M.O.V. and G.O.V. create a legacy of achievement, mentorship, and empowerment—changing lives, one young man at a time.
The Gentlemen of Vision Rites of Passage Enterprises, Inc. is a community-based program currently servicing males from
various school districts within the St. Louis Metropolitan Area. The organization has an impeccable 100 percent high
school graduation and college admission/retention rate! Since 2009, every member has successfully completed high
school and accepted into a college, university, trade school or the U.S. Military. In addition to servicing high school
members, G.O.V. has extended its services to middle school and Collegiate members.
