Marlon Wharton’s Gentlemen of Vision: Transforming Lives in St. Louis Through Unmatched Mentorship and Discipline

Discover how Marlon Wharton’s Gentlemen of Vision is making a difference in St. Louis by providing mentorship and discipline to empower youth. #mentorship #discipline #StLouis

 In the heart of St. Louis, transformation for young black men shines brightly through the efforts of Marlon Wharton, the visionary founder of Gentlemen of Vision Rites of Passage Enterprises, Inc. Established in 2009, this community-based program has become a lifeline for males from various school districts within the St. Louis Metropolitan Area.  Marlon, a guidance counselor by profession, identified a glaring gap in mentorship for young black males, particularly outside the realm of sports. 

In response, he birthed Gentlemen of Vision, a mentorship program that goes beyond conventional boundaries. Infusing discipline through stepping and drills, Marlon has successfully molded hundreds of young black men, instilling values that transcend the challenges they face.  The organization’s track record is nothing short of remarkable.

With a 100 percent high school graduation and college admission/retention rate since its inception, Gentlemen of Vision stands as a testament to the power of mentorship and discipline. Marlon proudly emphasizes their National Championship status in Step since 2009, showcasing not only academic success but excellence in extracurricular activities.  

When questioned about the organization’s significance in the black community, Marlon highlighted the critical role they play in standing against the myriad challenges facing young black men—ranging from drugs and gangs to unequal access to healthcare and education. Gentlemen of Vision becomes a guiding force, providing mentorship, brotherhood, and a pathway to success, evident in the numerous program graduates who return as doctors, lawyers, artists, teachers, and scientists. 

The organization’s overarching goal is to combat the dropout rate among “proven-risk” high school males, particularly in a state where the black male graduation rate is only 65.7%. Gentlemen of Vision proudly maintains a 100% graduation rate, epitomizing their motto: “Changing the lives of young men, one statistic at a time.”  

Looking ahead, Marlon Wharton envisions a legacy where he stood in the gap for young men to have a better life. Passionate about one of the most challenging jobs on the planet, his commitment to empowering the next generation resonates to the enduring impact of mentorship and community building.