Meet Gentlemen of Vision
This year, CITY continued the Support Black Dreams campaign with shirts designed by artist Marco Cheatham. The proceeds of every shirt will benefit a local nonprofit doing great work in and around our city, Gentlemen of Vision. To shine light on their work, we talked with Founder Marlon Wharton and Executive Director Christopher Randall.
Marlon Wharton's vision behind the organization is to reduce dropout rates among at-risk high school students and shape them into good and productive professionals through competitive step dancing and comprehensive mentorship.
"I want those cycles of not thinking that 'I can’t fulfill my dreams, or my goals' to end. I want to inspire these guys to be different, to be bigger than what society even feels that they can be."
Through these efforts, Gentlemen of Vision has effectively altered the lives of more than 500 young men, maintaining a remarkable 100% graduation rate since its beginning in 2009. The program's creative approach and emphasis on academic performance have earned national recognition, with the group winning twelve national titles in step competitions.
Supporting that inspiration is Christopher Randall, as Executive Director, he draws from a life of service to provide guidance and support to the next generation. Christopher served as a Marine, worked as a police officer and has long channeled his involvement in the community into positive change.
“Serving and connecting people is my passion. My mission is to help change the world by making those around me the best versions of themselves possible. I am invested in making St. Louis a better place for my mentees, my son, and us all.”
To get involved and help continue this work, you can bid on the STL CITY SC Juneteenth MLS jersey – currently available for auction. Proceeds will benefit Gentlemen of Vision. Or come see their award-winning step team at CITY Block Party ahead of our June 21 match at CITYPARK.
