Breaking the School-to-Prison Pipeline
Providing mentorship, education, and support to at-risk youth, creating pathways to success instead of incarceration. Together, we're building stronger communities through opportunity and empowerment.
Get in Touch
All Sides of Town Cookout — 5th Anniversary 2026
July 18, 2026 • 12:30pm-8:00pm
What's Included:
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Free food for all attendees
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Free haircuts
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Activities for youth and adults
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Backpack giveaway for students
All Sides of Town Cookout
July 18, 2026 · Lincoln Woods, Providence RI
The Journey of Transformation
From at-risk to achievement: How Lead By Example interrupts the school-to-prison pipeline
Lead By Example Intervention
Hope Through Mentorship
Men and women with lived experience step in as mentors. Trauma-informed support, educational resources, and community connection break the cycle.
Visual Symbols
- 🤝Guiding hands - mentorship
- 🌅Rising sun - hope & new beginnings
- 🚪Open doors - opportunities
- 💚Hearts - trauma-informed care
- 📚Books - education as liberation
Lead By Example Interventions
- One-on-one mentorship from those with lived experience
- Academic support and tutoring
- Life skills workshops
- Trauma-informed counseling
- Community events (cookouts, sports)
- Career exploration programs
- Restorative justice circles
"I just put; the mission is to interrupt the school to prison pipeline, using men and women with lived experience, making a difference in our community."
- Robert McKinney Sr., Founder
Be Part of the Transformation
Our Mission
Lead By Example is dedicated to breaking the school-to-prison pipeline by providing comprehensive support, mentorship, and educational opportunities to at-risk youth in our communities.
Breaking the Pipeline
Interrupting the school-to-prison pipeline through early intervention and comprehensive support systems.
Mentorship & Guidance
Providing one-on-one mentorship and positive role models to help youth navigate challenges and opportunities.
Educational Excellence
Supporting academic achievement through tutoring, resources, and college preparation programs.
Pathways to Success
Creating sustainable pathways to employment, higher education, and community leadership.
Through evidence-based programs and community partnerships, we create pathways to success that empower young people to reach their full potential. Our holistic approach addresses the root causes of youth incarceration while building protective factors that lead to long-term positive outcomes.
Our Community in Motion
Every gathering, a step forward.
125+
youth served in our communities
Lead By Example · Providence, RI
Voices of Impact
Hear from the lives transformed through our programs and the community that makes it all possible.
Maria Rodriguez
Program Graduate, Class of 2022
“Lead By Example changed my life completely. The mentorship I received helped me turn away from negative influences and focus on my education. Today I'm studying criminal justice with the goal of helping other young people avoid the path I almost took.”
of participants complete high school
pursue higher education or meaningful employment
of families report positive outcomes
Meet Our Mentors
Our dedicated mentors have lived experience and understand the journey. They're here to guide, support, and inspire the next generation.
Robert McKinney Sr.
Founder & Lead Mentor
Founder of Lead By Example. I've dedicated my life to interrupting the school-to-prison pipeline using my lived experience to guide our youth toward better futures.
Ronald Hopkins
Community Mentor
Ronald is a dedicated community leader and mentor committed to breaking the school-to-prison pipeline and empowering youth in Providence.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Join our community of mentors with lived experience
Resource Library
Trauma-informed resources designed to support your journey. All content created with care, understanding, and respect for your experiences.
Featured Resources
Understanding Your Emotions: A Teen's Guide
Learn healthy ways to identify, process, and express your emotions. Includes practical exercises and coping strategies specifically designed for young people who have experienced trauma.
From Streets to Success: Real Stories
Video series featuring young adults who overcame similar challenges. Hear authentic stories of transformation, resilience, and hope from people who walked in your shoes.
Your Rights: Dealing with Police & Legal System
Know your rights and how to protect yourself. Created by advocates and attorneys, this guide helps you navigate encounters with law enforcement and understand the juvenile justice system.
Mindfulness for Tough Times
Audio meditation and breathing exercises to help you manage stress, anxiety, and difficult emotions. Perfect for when you need a moment of calm or help falling asleep.
Financial Literacy Basics
Money management skills they don't teach in school. Budgeting, banking, credit, avoiding scams, and planning for your future. Practical tips you can use right now.
Healing from Trauma: A Youth's Journey
Created with trauma specialists, this compassionate guide helps you understand trauma's effects and find paths to healing. Includes resources for professional support and peer connection.
All Resources
Building Healthy Relationships
Navigate friendships, family dynamics, and romantic relationships. Learn about boundaries, communication, and recognizing healthy vs. unhealthy patterns.
Study Skills That Actually Work
Practical strategies for improving grades and staying organized. Includes time management, note-taking, test prep, and motivation techniques designed for students with various learning needs.
College Application Roadmap
Step-by-step guide to applying for college, including financial aid, scholarships, essays, and navigating the process as a first-generation student. You CAN do this.
Conflict Resolution Skills
De-escalation techniques, communication strategies, and problem-solving approaches. Learn to handle conflicts without violence or aggression.
Building Your Support Network
You don't have to do this alone. Learn how to identify trustworthy people, ask for help, and create a support system that has your back.
Need More Support?
These resources are here to help, but sometimes you need to talk to someone. We're here for you.
Our Impact Archive
Explore our past initiatives and see the tangible difference we've made in our community through dedicated fundraising and outreach efforts.
Youth Impacted
Successful Events
June 2024
Youth Empowerment Summit 2024
A comprehensive summit featuring workshops, mentorship sessions, and career guidance.
Youth Served
Impact: 92% of participants reported increased confidence
December 2023
Winter Clothing Drive 2023
Distributed warm clothing, coats, and winter essentials to families in need.
Youth Served
Impact: 95% satisfaction rate from beneficiaries
2024
Institution of Non-Violence
A community initiative dedicated to promoting non-violence, conflict resolution, and peaceful engagement throughout Providence neighborhoods.
Youth Served
Impact: 125+ youth served
Be Part of Our Next Success Story
Join us in creating positive change and making a lasting impact in our community. Every contribution matters.
Our Community Partners
We collaborate with outstanding organizations that share our commitment to empowering youth and strengthening communities.
Community Impact
Join a network of organizations making real change in people's lives
Shared Mission
Align with our values of empowerment, support, and community building
Collaborative Growth
Expand your reach and impact through strategic partnerships
Become a Partner
Join our network of community partners and help us create lasting positive change. Together, we can empower more youth and strengthen our communities.
Get In Touch
(401) 699-6544
Partnership Opportunities
Program collaboration
Resource sharing
Event partnerships
Funding opportunities