In East Las Vegas, a growing network of mentorship programs is giving young men a concrete path away from jail and toward productive, family‑focused lives. The My Brothers Keeper Alliance, launched in 2017 by the city, Clark County and the Clark County School District, partners with community groups like Chicanos Por La Causa to provide housing assistance, educational resources and mental‑health counseling.
Personal stories of transformation
Axel Cueva, a recent participant, says his probation officer urged him to join. “I came here for all these opportunities,” he told the program staff. Since enrolling, Cueva says he has become a “better person” and feels a strong sense of purpose. He describes his past as “lost in my own world,” with frequent jail stints, and credits the mentorship network for opening his eyes to new possibilities.
Dezhon Pate, another member, echoed that sentiment, explaining that he joined to avoid repeating past mistakes. “I ain’t gonna keep repeating the same thing over and over,” he said, emphasizing the program’s focus on growth and accountability.
Leadership rooted in community experience
Program director Marcus Sherfield grew up near Pecos Road and Washington Avenue. He recalls how mentors, church groups and other community resources helped him navigate critical crossroads. “If it wasn’t for that support, I could have gone a whole different direction,” Sherfield said, underscoring the personal stakes behind the Alliance’s mission.
Sherfield notes that the Alliance works closely with local agencies to connect participants to stable housing, job training, and counseling services. These resources aim to strengthen families and reduce the likelihood of recidivism, aligning with traditional family values that the community holds dear.
Advice for peers
Cueva urges other young men in the Las Vegas Valley to seek out positive influences. “Don’t go to friends who want you to smoke, drink or party. Those aren’t real friends. Find people who will lift you up, talk with you, and help you look for jobs,” he said.
The mentorship model also stresses the importance of faith‑based support. Many participants cite church involvement as a stabilizing factor, reflecting the community’s Christian heritage and its role in guiding moral decisions.
How to get involved
Community members who wish to support the My Brothers Keeper Alliance can contact director Marcus Sherfield at 702‑460‑5697 or visit the program’s website for donation information and volunteer opportunities.
By linking at‑risk youth with mentors, resources and a supportive faith‑centered environment, Las Vegas is fostering a new generation of responsible, family‑oriented citizens.
Original reporting: KTNV 13 Action News Las Vegas (local) — read the source article.
