Current Programs
XY -Zone
The XY-Zone (the XY stands for the male chromosome) is a leadership development and peer support program of CIS New Orleans that helps middle-school and high-school young men develop productive life-skills for their journey into manhood.
Founded by our sister affiliate, CIS Central Texas, the XY-Zone participants experience the following:
- A close relationship with a skilled, caring male adult role model
- A brotherhood of young men
- Peer support groups that use a curriculum based on five core values: Respect, Responsibility, Relationships, Role Modeling and Reaching Out
- Expanded horizons into the world of work, higher education through exposure to fun and enriching life experiences
- Leadership opportunities and a chance to give back to peers and community through service projects
Collectively, the XY-Zone provides participants with job readiness services, support groups, mentors, community service projects, peer education, and facilitates group discussions around issues associated with men's health information and teen pregnancy. Participation in the XY-Zone is an opportunity for young men to promote healthy development by improving skills, increasing options, bolstering self-esteem, promoting a sense of hope in their future, as well as providing opportunities for growth and achievement.
For more information contact the Director of Student Support Services, Karen Nelkin, LCSW, at 504- 232-6590 or knelkin.cisno@gmail.com.
"Five Basics"
Communities In Schools believes that every child needs and deserves these "Five Basics."
- A one-on-one relationship with a caring adult
- A safe place to learn and grow
- A healthy start and a healthy future
- A marketable skill to use upon graduation
- A chance to give back to peers and community
