Smart Choices is a youth-focused nonprofit built on a simple belief: the choices a young person makes today shape who they become tomorrow — and they don't have to make those choices alone.
Our Mission
Smart Choices is an organization that focuses on the youth — helping them make better and wiser decisions. Knowing when to say no is the key to not getting caught up in peer pressure.
We understand that the decisions made now can affect a young person's entire future. That's why we educate the youth to identify who they should associate with, and to be mindful of the stigmas often associated with their demeanor and apparel.
Smart Choices shares how to make appropriate choices about what to publicly display on social networks and cellular phones. The men of our organization assist single parents in educating and teaching young people what it takes to succeed and to make smart choices.
Because we know that dreams are real, our mission is for young men to know that dreams can be a reality in their lives.
How We Work
No theatrics. No gatekeeping. Just adults who show up, listen, and walk young people through decisions one conversation at a time.
Mentors meet youth where they are — in their schools, neighborhoods, and homes — not where it's convenient for us.
Before we speak into a young person's life, we take time to hear them. The most useful guidance starts with understanding.
From peer pressure to job interviews to senior-year hurdles — we walk through the decisions that quietly decide a future.
Leadership
President & Founder
Rodney founded Smart Choices in 2021 to do what he had seen work in his own life — adults walking alongside young people through the choices that quietly decide a future. He devotes 15 hours each week to the organization at no compensation, leading mentoring, field trips, and direct support to youth and the parents raising them.
Transparency
Smart Choices is recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) public charity. Contributions to the organization are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
There's a young person near you who could use someone in their corner. We'd love to talk.