Inspiring Deputy Sheriff Transforming Boys Into Men: Bobby Porter
By Lana Reid | January 24, 2024
As part of the Black Men Matter Series, Lana Reid sits down with Bobby Porter, Dillon County, South Carolina Deputy Sheriff and founder of the Boys to Men Youth Mentorship Program, to discuss mentoring young boys into responsible men. Bobby shares how intentional mentorship, exposure to new experiences, and consistent leadership help boys develop character, confidence, and accountability. The conversation centers on providing structure, opportunity, and encouragement during critical developmental years.

In this episode of The Male Perspective, Bobby Porter offers an inspiring conversation on youth mentorship, leadership, and community responsibility.
Bobby explains how the Boys to Men Youth Mentorship Program was created to give young boys access to experiences they might not otherwise encounter. He discusses how mentorship goes beyond guidance and includes exposure to academic achievement celebrations, college visits, youth-led community service projects, and meaningful life experiences that broaden perspective and aspiration.
Throughout the conversation, Lana Reid and Bobby explore the importance of positive role models. Bobby emphasizes that boys need consistent examples of discipline, respect, and responsibility to help shape their decision-making and self-confidence. He reflects on how structured mentorship creates safe spaces for learning, accountability, and personal growth.
The discussion also highlights community investment and long-term impact. Bobby shares how empowering boys today contributes to stronger families and safer communities tomorrow. He underscores that mentorship is not about control, but about support, exposure, and belief in a young person’s potential.
This episode reinforces the importance of mentorship, opportunity, and leadership in helping boys grow into men who are prepared to contribute positively to their communities.
About the Guest
Bobby Porter is a Dillon County, South Carolina Deputy Sheriff and the founder of the Boys to Men Youth Mentorship Program. His work focuses on empowering young boys through mentorship, exposure, leadership development, and community engagement.
For more information on Bobby Porter:
https://boystomengirlswithpurpose.org/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552861941820
https://www.instagram.com/boystomengirlswithpurpose
https://www.linkedin.com/company/boys-to-men-girls-with-purpose
About the Series
This episode is part of the Black Men Matter Series, highlighting Black men who serve as mentors, leaders, and role models committed to strengthening youth and community outcomes.
About the Host & Organization
The Male Perspective is hosted by Lana Reid, founder of Conversations in Color, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) grassroots organization dedicated to providing uplifting and community-building spaces of dialogue for Black voices.
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