‘Gentlemen and Scholars’ providing local youth with mentorship

SOUTH BEND, Ind.—A local nonprofit, Gentlemen and Scholars, is providing youth with mentorship, through workshops and even spelling bees.

William Douglas, one of the organization’s directors, says that many of the students they serve come from South Bend Schools.

Students are able to attend a nine week program held at the Charles Martin Youth Center called Etiquette Honors Classes, teaching skills such as poise, eloquence, and projecting a positive self-image.

Since 2016, the organization has run a unique spelling bee that mixes a traditional spelling bee with elements of spoken word performances, dance, and an art auction. See the photos above from last year's event.

Enrollment is now open for the next set of classes, which start March 3.

The next “Spelling Bee Explosion” is scheduled for April 28 at the Century Center.

For more information on the organization, click here.