Community male leaders gathered at the Albany James H. Gray, Sr. Civic Center to support dozens of young males from the Albany area at Phoebe’s annual Ties That Bind luncheon.
 
The luncheon, which started six years ago, was designed as a support system for boys whose fathers are absent from their lives. Community leaders not only share a meal with the young men but they also share a tie. “This event is about more than just giving the boys a tie. It is a great day in our community when men come together to help us mentor young men and inspire them to be the best they can be,” said Marvin Laster, CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Albany and Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital Board Member.
 
The keynote speaker at this year’s event was Procter & Gamble Albany Plant Manager, Werhner Washington. He spoke about his successes and what three rules he lived by that helped him along the way. “There are three things in you need to do in life to be successful. The first is to show up. Whether it’s school or work, you need to show up. Second, be respectful to authority. And, the third rule is do your work,” said Washington.
 
Phoebe’s Network of Trust hosts the annual event. Dedicated to the betterment of our community, Network of Trust addresses positive youth outcomes academically, emotionally, and physically through a committed team of nurses and educators.