Established in March 1993 by Congresswoman and Former Miami-Dade School Board Member Frederica S. Wilson, 5000 Role Models has grown into a program molding young boys into men, and creating the next generation of inspiring leaders. At Miami Palmetto Senior High, 5000 Role Models goes beyond their monthly meetings and further than their weekly dress-out days. 5000 Role Models has changed a select group of MPSH students for the better, influencing them into becoming well-rounded young men.
Sponsor and MPSH Varsity Cross Country and Track coach Michael Reynolds has experienced first-hand the work members put in to ignite change in their peers and environment.
“We’ve had quite a few students who have gone on to inspire the community, have grown into amazing men, professionals from law enforcement to educators and even community leaders; so, [5000 Role Models] definitely has had an impact on their lives,” Reynolds said.
Reynolds’ passion for guiding youth in the community has led him to sponsor 5000 Role Models for over nine years. He ensures that members and students are aware and proud of what wearing the red tie throughout the school’s hallways truly means.
“[Reynold’s] job is like a father role. He will be there for us if we need him. And the same thing, [5000 Role Models is] like a brotherhood; you can also go to another member and ask him a question if you need to … Because I will say it’s kind of like a family,” President and junior La’Darius Jones said.
Members have the opportunity to meet new people and cultivate ideas and projects they might have never had the chance to before.
“[5000 Role Models] means a lot to me. It means leadership and dedication. You get lots of opportunities, connections, making bonds with people in the industry that you don’t know about. It also helped young boys get away from the violence and do something productive,” Treasurer and junior Joshua Greenridge said.
Through this mentorship program, members have the opportunity to receive tips and help for the college process, as well as network with peers and learn how to continue the lessons they learn in the program.
“[My advice to others is] take what you’re doing in the program; you can do it outside in the world too,” Sergeant of Arms and sophomore John Soto said.
No matter the differences between each member, when they dress out and tie their signature red tie, they not only become part of a brotherhood, they become a family.
“When they put on the suit and tie, [members] feel different. Everybody feels different, and you feel like you get the courage to stand up, to do the right thing,” Greenridge said.
Every member has a different attachment to this red tie, but its history unifies them.
“The red tie means to me a partnership: coming together and being helpful and respectful,” Secretary and junior Henry Johnson said.
Reynolds encourages students to take advantage of the opportunities MPSH provides them with — especially an organization like 5000 Role Models, where boys have the chance to change the course of their lives.
“Students see other students walk around in a red tie, and white shirt, and they want to be a part of something great,” Reynolds said.
