Abstract
The issue addressed in this study concerns whether a positive youth development program, sensitive to Black youth, effectively negates structural and cultural pressures. The environment in this study is important because it is a predominantly Caucasian, university town, where the economic base is high and cultural exploration is low. A qualitative evaluative method is employed which includes interviewing of respondents. Parents account for scrutiny in their sons’ lives, also observed changes in behavior due to the program. The program provided a safe space for Black male youth to relieve stress and discover the benefits of cultural centrality. This study lends support to the importance of cultural centrality and the need for supportive services in predominantly Caucasian environments. This study concludes with the implications for social work practice.