SHARON - The Prince of Peace Center is teaming up with the Sharon City School District to launch a new program for the upcoming school year that aims to support young men who lack a positive male role model. 

The program is called Q Academy. As students progress through the program's four dynamic modules, the academy seeks to instill a positive self-esteem, foster a sense of community responsibility, and introduce viable career opportunities to its young male participants.

These modules are:

  • Intro to the Program
  • Social-Emotional Regulation
  • Life Skills
  • Vocational Opportunities

The content of these modules is designed to be practical and genuinely useful in preparing young men for positive outcomes in real-life experiences and their lives in general. 

According to the press release, topics include conflict resolution, coping skills, understanding mental health, financial literacy, time management, car maintenance, effective communication and professional dress - including how to tie a tie. 

Q Academy is actively seeking male mentors, local businesses and financial partners willing to offer volunteer placements, job shadowing or employment opportunities to students who engage with the program. 

The name Q Academy pays tribute to Quentin Gosser, the childhood mentor of Bob Ryhal, Board Chairman at the Prince of Peace Center. Gosser inspired Ryhal, who lacked a positive father figure of his own until they met when Ryhal was in high school, to become a responsible family man. 

The program is made possible by donations from organizations including the Buhl Regional Health Foundation, FNB, Blanche M. Walsh Charity Trust, Catholic Foundation of Northwest PA, Catholic Charities, Inc. and the Strimbu Memorial Fund.

Following the program's launch in collaboration with the Sharon City School District, the Prince of Peace Center expects to expand the other school districts in the region. 

“For many, a positive mentor is missing in their lives... And we are grateful for the opportunity to work with the Prince of Peace staff and community in providing real-world experiences for our young men,” says Justi Glaros, Superintendent of Sharon City School District.