Ochsner, Son of a Saint Team Up to Support Fatherless Boys in New Orleans

If there’s ever proof of purpose in action, it is New Orleans-based nonprofit Son of a Saint, founded by Bivian “Sonny” Lee, III. Inspired by Lee’s own childhood experience of losing his father from heart failure, the organization creates positive support systems for the city’s young men. Now, with help from partners like Ochsner Health, Son of a Saint continues to empower boys who have lost their fathers. Through its network, Son of a Saint provides tutoring, mental health services and more to boys ages 10 to 18, and the connection with the young men remains into their adulthood.

“The mission of Son of a Saint is to transform the lives of fatherless boys in New Orleans and beyond, but also to inspire mentorship,” said Lee. “It’s a labor of love.”

Teaming up with Ochsner Health

In 2020, Ochsner partnered with Son of a Saint to open an all-inclusive home and headquarters for the organization, The Ochsner Health Son of a Saint Bivian Lee, Jr. Center.

Ochsner provides healthcare educators, social workers, and mental health providers who offer free health screenings and education sessions for Son of a Saint members. This critical support includes counseling services and workshops on coping mechanisms and stress management.

“The mental health support is an essential element of Son of a Saint’s holistic program,” said Kevin Green, Ochsner’s vice president of community health and Son of a Saint board member. “I couldn’t think of a better way to have genuine impact.”

Success in our community

When Karon Scott first joined Son of a Saint in 2021, he was feeling withdrawn. After receiving tutoring and mentoring from the Son of a Saint, Scott began performing better in school and even built the confidence to join a traveling basketball team. In 2022, Scott was named the organization’s Mentee of the Year.

“My experience at Son of a Saint has become one of the best things I’ve become a part of, and this brotherhood and support system has been incredibly valuable,” Scott said. “It’s like a second home.”

Son of a Saint has made tremendous impact training young men like Scott to positively influence their community. Since its inception, it has served over 350 youth in more than 90 schools with a 100% high school graduation rate among mentees, and has helped participants secure internships and other career development.

By teaming up with organizations like Son of a Saint, Ochsner improves the health and well-being of its communities and empowers the next generation of leaders.