Men Engaged in Non-Violence (MEN) is a program of CAV launched in August 2004. The Taos News, KTAO and KXMT helped kick off awareness of MEN in the Taos community through interviews and the unique imagery provided by photographer Donald Graham.

A theme emerged, "Men and boys working together to create a non-violent Taos," and over 100 men signed pledges of non-violence and began working on programs needed by boys and young men in the community.

Two separate programs were developed: a Tuesday night support group for young men and MEN volunteers and a separate program of trained MEN mentors who were paired with boys through the schools. Mentors spend one hour per week with their mentees to work on both academics and issues of guidance as well as having some fun. Participation in both programs and any other MEN activities is by referral to the coordinator.

The MEN coordinator is constantly recruiting a larger base of mentors to meet the great number of requests. He is also recruiting all ages of men for the Taos News ads that publicize the program and the message. More mentors and support group participants are in demand to help youth and model appropriate behavior to young men and boys in Taos County.

For information, call at 751-1360, ext. 12.