Welcome to Our First Newsletter!
From mentoring at-risk youth, to gang intervention, to training young fathers to step up and do the right thing, MEN is taking on the heavy lifting for Taos. We’re intent on creating a community where women are safe and men are respectful and productive – and we need your help. You can begin by subscribing to this newsletter (see sign-up at right). Please visit our website to learn about our programs and see the 500-plus women and men who have participated to date. And of course, donate if you feel moved – as I’m sure you will. - Vishu Magee, president

The Media Campaign has focused on men modeling healthy relationships. L-R: Carla Gonzales with her sons; Robert Mirabal and daughter Kona; Shea Orner and Erica Dimond speaking for teen pregnancy prevention.

News: Autumn Recap
The school year is underway with over 75 volunteer mentors at work, a new gang intervention program at Ranchos Elementary, and an expanded support group at the Chrysalis alternative school. September 14-18 was proclaimed “Taos Nonviolence Week" by the School Board, the Mayor and Governor Richardson and featured nonviolence curriculae in the schools. A new group of young dads has entered the Fatherhood Program. more

People: Miguel Quintana, mentor, coach, and father.
Miguel is a homegrown Taoseno, married to Melissa Montoya Quintana and the father of Miguel Jr., 10, Andrica, 7, and Alissa, 4. He was an early mentor who showed such enthusiasm that he was asked to join the Board as vice-president. Quote: “I’ve lived in Taos all my life and know how great the need is for positive role models. The mentors are amazing and the mentees are responding well. more

Notes on Nonviolence: Why Nonviolence? by Vishu Magee

"In the MEN Model, Nonviolence means getting what you need without harming anyone."

To me, it’s abundantly clear that overt physical and sexual violence is merely the most visible and nasty symptom of a much deeper affliction. As in any disease, treating the symptom is not enough. You have to cure the underlying condition, which in this case is a broken web of family and community relationships. Restoring the web that connects us, guides us and nourishes us is something we have to do for ourselves. That’s where nonviolence figures in, and that’s why Men Engaged in Nonviolence. more