Founded in 2022 as a part of the City of Mobile’s Youth Violence Prevention initiative, Breakthrough Teens provides a supportive environment that helps youth ages 13-24 discover their purpose through recreation, mentorship, and educational opportunities.
Mar 25th, 2026
Phelon Carter, Teen Mentor Coordinator
Can you share a moment that reminded you why mentoring matters?
“Many of our teen board members have reached the point in their young lives where the pressures to succeed academically and thrive socially has caused them to feel inadequate. Some will turn to the media and attempt to mimic the lives and attitudes of the characters they see on these reality shows or influencer social accounts. However, when a few of our teens individually approached me, seeking advice on how to navigate the daily pressures they encounter, I realized they saw me as a light. A safe space, free from judgment. And I was actually able to help them, by either sharing my own personal experiences as a teen or at least connecting them with the appropriate resources.”
What’s something about MPRD’s youth programs that makes you proud to be involved?
“Witnessing the growth of many of our Youth Advisory Board members. They come to us as these shy and timid little kids, unaware of where they fit in and wondering if they even belong. However, by the end of the school year, they’ve blossomed, becoming more confident and outspoken. We’re able to give our youth the opportunity to explore the ideas of who they are and what they can become.”
What do you think makes the Breakthrough Teens program so important for teens in Mobile?
“It’s a safe haven for them to just be kids. Before the Breakthrough Teens program was created, there were very few places they could go to feel safe and have fun. Now, and in collaboration with MPD, they have options: educational programs, networking activities, and college tour events.”
What do you enjoy most about working with other mentors, staff, or participants?
“I enjoy the collaboration. Whether young or old, Gen Z or Baby Boomer, City of Mobile staff or community members; the things we’re able to create and teach each other in the process is unmatched.”
How do you hope to continue serving your community as you get older?
“In the capacity of a city leadership role. Through my non-profit, ‘World’s Ambition’, I’ve focused on giving back to the community of Mobile where I grew up. As I age and gain more community-based experiences, I want to expand my focus, nurturing communities and fostering the growth of future generations.”
Macaiah Beck, Assistant Teen Mentor Coordinator
What inspired you to become a Teen Mentor with the Mobile Parks and Recreation Department?
“Before becoming a Teen Mentor in 2023, I began as a summer Y.E.S. program intern with the City Council under the guidance of Ashley Flores, Director of Council Communications & Community Engagement. During that time, I was fortunate to meet one of my current mentors, Shonda Smith, the Executive Director of Public Works. I enjoyed the work, but I still wasn’t sure what career path I wanted to pursue. While enrolled in online business courses through Spelman College, I knew I wanted a role that allowed me to make a visible impact in my community. By the end of the summer, I learned about an opening with the Mobile Parks and Recreation Department. After a trial volunteer period, I realized the work came naturally to me and that collaboration felt organic, not forced. That’s when I decided to apply.”
What do you enjoy most about working with other mentors, staff, or participants?
“Meeting the teens. Each one has their own unique personality! It’s refreshing to recognize when they trust you enough to let you meet who they really are. Learning about them, their dreams and goals teaches me exactly how I can better mentor and support them.”
How do you help create a positive environment at the Newhouse Teen Center?
“By maintaining the open lines of communication. If they need someone to confide in, we’re here. If they need help with homework, we’re here. If they ever feel lost or like they don’t belong, we remind them that they are always welcome at New House. We make space for our teens physically and mentally.”
What new skills or experiences have you gained through your role as an Assistant Teen Mentor?
“Overall, this experience has expanded my understanding of business and political science and helped me grow in social awareness and emotional intelligence.”
How would this program have benefited you and contributed to your growth as a teen?
"I would have been able to foster and maintain positive interpersonal relationships with my peers in real life, instead of just online. There would have been more opportunities for my friends and I to create lasting memories if we were able to participate in the Breakthrough Teens events. My parents would have been more comfortable with me “going out” to Breakthrough Teen events as opposed to the less secure popular hangout spots that other teens used to frequent."
To follow the journey of Mobile’s next generation of leaders and stay informed about upcoming programs and events, follow @251teens on Instagram or contact the Breakthrough Teens team at breakthroughteens@cityofmobile.gov