Our Team

Justin Dale

director & Founder

He is a passionate social worker, community organizer, and advocate, with a solid academic background and professional experience. He is dedicated to empowering Black men and boys through intentional mentorship, culturally responsive care, and a community-centered support system that values each person’s unique experiences. With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in African American Studies from Wayne State University and a Master of Social Work from Louisiana State University, he is well-equipped to address the unique developmental, emotional, and social needs of Black male youth.

As the founder of Black Men Work—a nonprofit organization rooted in empowerment, healing, and transformation—this professional has focused on creating a multi-tiered mentorship ecosystem for Black males aged 6 to 26. Through one-on-one mentoring, group guidance, and post-secondary planning (including vocational pathways), the organization is building a village and transforming lives by uplifting, educating, and strengthening communities. Black Men Work integrates family systems and community partnerships to foster positive identity development and long-term success for Black youth, particularly those from underserved neighborhoods.

His work is guided by a trauma-informed, culturally grounded framework that acknowledges the systemic challenges faced by Black men while highlighting their resilience, brilliance, and potential. His unwavering commitment to redefining support for young people is a beacon of hope, cultivating environments where Black men can fully express themselves, with robust mentorship, care, and community support as integral components. This dedication to empowerment and resilience lies at the core of all initiatives at Black Men Work.

Jelani Stowers

Community Coordinator

Jelani Stowers is a creative educator, entrepreneur, and bookstore owner working at the intersection of technology, literacy, and community empowerment. He leads coding programs through his startup DEVKEY and curates inclusive literary experiences at Pages Bookshop. His goal is to build platforms that preserve culture, expand access to knowledge, and support youth-led change. He serves as a liaison between local and national organizations.