THIS IS OUR STORY

The Definition of Success Mentorship Program was designed by David Jefferson to encourage children of the Portland Black community to define themselves and not let the external environment define them. The curriculum is based on lessons learned though his own personal journey. He started his fashion brand “Stackin Kickz” out of the trunk of his car in 2010. Since then he has become one of the most recognizable people and brands in Portland’s urban community. In addition to his brick and mortar shop at Lloyd Center, he has created food carts, radio shows, podcasts, and fashion shows.  He is a frequent inspirational speaker at local schools and prisons.

Working with youth was not initially one of David’s personal goals, but in recent years he was approached over and over again by parents who hoped he could talk with their children about his path to success, to present a positive role model they could relate to. This led to a series of one-on-one interactions with local youngsters that kindled a desire to devote significant effort to youth outreach.  He felt the lessons he learned growing up in NE Portland could help kids forge an easier path through the turmoil of childhood and teen years than his had been.  He was able to “unlearn” the unhealthy formulas for success prevalent in the community, then develop new approaches to self-actualization that allow him to live a life that brings him joy and gives back to the community.

David captured the key lessons he learned into a formal mentoring curriculum that has been received with overwhelmingly positive testimonials from participants and parents. He has recruited additional mentors from the Portland Black community who share his vision and deliver the mentoring course using their own personal success stories as proof-positive of its value. The program serves as a key resource for helping kids reach their potential, despite the negative influences present in their lives.