My name is Jamie Gilmore Jr., CEO of Kut Different. Born and raised in Ocala, Florida, I’ve seen firsthand how limited exposure can shape the dreams of young men in our community. For me, football was my ticket out. I was blessed with the talent to play the game well enough to earn an opportunity to attend Temple University in Philadelphia. Imagine an Ocala boy navigating life in the big city, it was a culture shock, but more importantly, it was a life-changing experience.
Being able to see that the world was so much bigger than Ocala gave me a fresh perspective. It opened my eyes to possibilities I never knew existed and showed me that my potential extended far beyond what I had imagined. That’s what we aim to provide at Kut Different, a chance for young men to see, experience, and believe in more.
At Kut Different, we think of our work as giving young men tools for their tool belts. For many of them, sports feel like the only tool they have, just like it was for me growing up. But our mission is to show them that there are countless opportunities beyond athletics. Whether it’s a career in business, trades, technology, or entrepreneurship, we help them discover their potential and equip them with the tools they need to succeed.
The Missing Ingredients
We firmly believe that exposure is the missing ingredient in many young men’s lives. Without exposure to new environments, ideas, and possibilities, it’s hard to dream big or see beyond what’s familiar. But exposure alone isn’t enough. Young men also need structure, discipline, and accountability, qualities that many lack, not because they aren’t capable, but because their environment often doesn’t cultivate these traits.
Here’s why:
• Structure: Many young men grow up in unstable environments where consistency is a luxury. Without routines or clear expectations, they struggle to develop the habits necessary for success.
• Discipline: In a world of instant gratification, it’s easy to lose sight of the long-term rewards of hard work and perseverance.
• Accountability: Without strong role models or mentors to hold them accountable, many young men struggle to take ownership of their actions and choices.
The Role of Mentorship
Mentorship is one of the most powerful ways to fill these gaps. According to research, young people with mentors are:
• 55% more likely to enroll in college,
• 78% more likely to volunteer regularly, and
• 46% less likely to start using illegal drugs.
At Kut Different, our mentors not only provide guidance but also serve as examples of what’s possible. They walk alongside our young men, helping them navigate challenges and celebrate victories, all while pushing them to own their greatness.
Guiding Young Men to Own Their Greatness
Our mission is simple but profound: to guide young men to own their greatness. I believe that God created us all to be great. But sometimes, the experiences we face or the cards we’re dealt make us forget that. At Kut Different, our job is to remind these young men of who they are and bring out the greatness that God has already placed within them.
We are more than a mentorship organization, we are builders of futures, creators of opportunities, and a source of hope. Through exposure, structure, discipline, and accountability, we are equipping the next generation of leaders with the tools they need to succeed in life.
To every young man we mentor: greatness is within you. Our job is to help you see it, believe it, and live it.
Own Your Greatness
Whoever is reading this, my hope is that after reading this, you feel inspired to own your greatness. Not just for yourself, but for those around you. The people in your life, your family, your friends, your community, need you to step into who you were meant to be. And if no one has told you before, let me be the first to say it: You are capable. You are worthy. You are built for more.
Now, go be great.
Jamie Gilmore Jr.
CEO, Kut Different
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