TEAM BLACK 417
Dedicated to a generation of young people that struggle with depression, addiction, apathy, and mental-illness.
We created the Team Black 417 Foundation shortly after we lost our son Michael to addiction.
Michael would have wanted a holistic approach in reaching every person with physical, emotional and spiritual healing.
MICHAEL RYAN BLACK
Michael passed away on April 17th, 2013 when he was just 19-years-old. He was one of the most amazing young men you could ever meet. He was a model son; respectful, honorable and hard-working. He was an All-American football player, USA Rugby player, had above average grades and was a leader of leaders.
Michael had his struggles as mental illness ran in his family. He fought with overachievement and never feeling good enough and in the spring of 2012, started using drugs as a means to cope with the pressure. His almost perfect life came apart quickly and by the time autumn came, he had a felony on his record and had lost most of his friends.
The road back was difficult and he never overcame it. In January 2013, Michael was back in school with his reinstated rugby scholarship, but even being drug-free, and his faith re-established, Michael found it difficult to engage. Mentally, it was more of a struggle than we will ever know.
His death was violent and is still a bit of a mystery.
How we’re helping America’s youth.
Community.
We connect young people with solid Kingdom-focused communities in cities like Colorado Springs, Nashville, and Asheville. These hubs give people the opportunity to leave toxic environments and live with other people seeking healing, transformation, and wholeness.
Employment.
Helping young people find jobs, pursue careers, and even start businesses is key. If they can learn to be a Kingdom presence in the work place, they feel what it’s like to make a meaningful contribution to the world, and be able to live a life that is filled with purpose.
Discipleship.
This is one of the biggest things missing in the lives of young people today. Walking through life with no direction or help is how many end up in difficult situations in the first place. We connect them with elders to disciple this generation, and help them grow.
We have committed our lives to encouraging thousands of others to help awaken, activate, and empower a generation of leaders that will serve all over the planet, just like Michael would have wanted.
