Sources of the crises faced by young black men lie not in the young men, but in society which portrays them as stereotypes. Social conditions are at the root of the following problems of black males: (1) lowered life expectancy; (2) risk of criminality; (3) poor economic conditions; (4) inadequate education; (5) drugs and gang violence; and (6) health risks associated with sexual behavior. The major societal flaw ultimately is racism. To combat the present devastation of the black community and American society, prevention efforts must promote positive youth development and self-esteem. The overall strategy of the HAWK Federation is to reinforce positive black manhood, grounded in African traditions. The HAWK training program, an attempt to influence the values and moral development of young black men, currently operates in a high school in Sacramento (California). Data from the first year confirm its utility in improving academic achievement. The program, which has intentionally created symbols, rituals, practices, and responsibilities to reinforce positive attributes of black manhood, promises to improve student motivation and school success. Attachments include the following: (1) specifications of the Manhood Training and Development Program; (2) program profiles; (3) a 68-item bibliography; and (4) the prospectus for the Center for Applied Cultural and Educational Achievement. (SLD)