Testimonials

I just HAVE to reach out to you to let you know how POWERFUL your book The Bond is. I love all of your work & all that you three represent, but THAT book has moved me to tears SEVERAL times and I'm only halfway through it. You all are blessings. I thank The Creator for working through you! I have several blogs and am inspired to start a new one based on how your book has moved me.

Drs. Sampson Davis, Rameck Hunt, and George Jenkins; you all have a wonderful book. It is very motivating to the mind. Thanks for being concerned in our youth some people don't bother to help or understand us. Thank you!

I just finished your book, The Pact. It was amazing! I read it for my job. I am elementary school teacher in Euclid, OH. Many students in our school have had to face some of the issues that all three of you had to face. As a 30 year old white middle class teacher, I knew some of the issues but your book really opened my eyes. I feel so much more informed about what some of the students that I teach every day go through. I know that I will be an even better teacher than I already am. I hope to be like one of the teachers that the three of you looked up to. I have taken away so much from this book and will tell others. You three are such an inspiration to all- black, white, poor or rich. Keep on doing what you are doing!!! People are listening and changing!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!!!

Personally I believe that "THE PACT" is a very motivational book that already has made a huge impact on my life as well as others. This book has shown me that I can do anything if I make the right choices, and I can do so with the help of my friends. Hope was given to me by reading this book and if young people like me wants to be successful in life then they should read this book, it will give them an inspiration toward becoming what they want to be. I very much appreciate Drs. Sampson Davis, George Jenkins and Rameck Hunt for writing this book or I would have never known that people like me that grew up in hard times could make it in an industry of where the society didn't look down on you for where you came from. Thank you and hopefully this message will be responded to.

I am truly delighted in your research, and all your heartfelt stories. You made me want to reach out to my dad who is currently in the Penile System. My dad has never been close to me all my childhood and adult life, mainly because he was in, and out of prison all his life. I will ever be so grateful, because you have showed me that it is never too late to reach out and forgive, no matter what…Thanks you gentleman. May God continue to pour out his Blessing on all of you, and your families. You have touched so many lives, in more ways than one. "ESPECIALLY MINE"

My daughter knew how much I admired you guys and decided to surprise me with a visit to your book signing for the "Bond" as my birthday present. It was a wonderful surprise!! Each of you was very kind and signed our books and exchanged conversation with us. I had previously purchased the "Pact" after reading your story in a Readers
Digest article. I am extremely proud of the three of you and all the works you're involved in to motivate and uplift your community and people everywhere. I finished reading the "Bond" sometime ago and it was a great read. I just wish continued success for your latest project and for future endeavors.

Hi, I just read your book "The Pact" for a school book report project. When I picked up the book at Barnes N Noble I thought that it would just be an easy book to skim and right a report about, little did I know that I would absolutely love your book and the stories of inspiration in it. I want to become a doctor but I was beginning to doubt that I could actually do it because of the hard high school classes I’m taking. i have finals coming up and i am inspired to hit the book and not let anything distract me, because you guys studied with all kinds of things going on outside, it should be no problem for me! THANK YOU!!! You guys are true inspirations and I really believe I will become a doctor, I now have no doubt that it will happen for me!

I am 13 years old, and I just wanted to thank you for literally saving my life. Up until now, I thought that I was a nobody who would never amount to anything. I was depressed, and at times I thought of ending my life. Where I come from, if you’re not White, nobody listens to a word that you have to say; and I'm half Black, so not many people think that I am intelligent, or that I want to succeed in life (especially my mom).

My grandfather was always telling me to keep my head held high and to believe in myself. He died. I didn't think that there was anyone else that I could turn to. My dad lives a couple states away from us in Harlem, New York, and my mom lives with me. I never even met my dad until I was six years old. He walked out on me and my mom. I wasn't supposed to be born, so he hates me for messing up his life.

I thought I was unwanted, and that I would never be able to be someone important, but then I stumbled across "We Beat the Streets". I don't know how many times I read it, over and over again. I couldn't believe that there were other people out there just like me, who had no idea that there could be more to life than just the hood.

Before, I couldn't have cared less about school, my actions, and my future. But now, I am trying to the best of my ability to get A's and B's in school. I want to be a teacher when I get older, so that I help kids and have an impact on someone's life. I don't know where I would be without you guys right now. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart for opening up my eyes, and showing me what it's like to love, trust, and succeed. Thanks!

I have just finished your book, we beat the street and I was close to tears at the end because it’s so true, we are afraid to dream bigger or want to be better then on what we see on the streets everyday day or at least I was. But not any more because of you 3 I have been inspired to dream big and be all that I can, I want to study in the field of medicine and that's exactly what I plan to do, so THANK YOU so much for sharing your story it just changed my life.

My son is 11 years old, he has read your books and they have been so encouraging to him. Martin is a creative child who absolutely loves science. He is a swimmer and has a gift of drawing. Thank you so much for writing such a wonderful book. As a matter of fact my 8 year old is reading The Pact now, and my two oldest children read your books as well.

I must say, "WOW"! It was a pleasure meeting you and the other two Docs at the BGC Day for Kids in Washington DC. I was clueless while listening to your stories that day in the gym. I bought your newest book the BOND and it is all clear now! I personally want to thank you, Rameck for spending just that brief moment after the ceremony to shake my hand and share a few words of encouragement to a young black brother, me, from down here in the south near Houston TX.

Hello Doctor's, I just wanted to say thank you so much for inspiring me to never give up and keep on moving forward. I am twelve years old and I have read your book that not only has it inspired me but many of my friends.

The hardest thing for me to do, was NOT share my information. I was as much inspired by my mentee as I hoped to have inspired him. The "Mentor for a Day" program was a GREAT way to share of myself and understand how much good I can do by spending time with a child. From a career perspective, I was not the best match for my mentee. but from a life perspective, we had a lot in common and I had a lot of knowledge to impart. I too remember that person - who in passing - influenced the direction of my life. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to do the same.

I have a 14 year old son who received your book "The Pact" as a gift from his Godmother. As a single mother I make a habit of participating in my son's actitivites, including reading. After reading your book we sat down and highlighted many key points that were stated. My son soaked up the information so willingly it amazed me. Throughout the school term, last year, I used many incerpts from your story to help many of my students focus on their paths in life. I beleive my students would gain a world of knowledge and maintain strong memories if they were able to receive the information I've shared straight from the mouths of those who lived it. We are a public school so our budget is very tight. Thank You for sharing your life to the world, especially to the youth.

I am very impressed and inspired by you guys. We really need more young progressive brother to step up and lead our community into the age of greatness. Keep on keeping on and know that I am 100% behind you.

I had a chance to experience their work first hand last weekend. When I first heard about last Saturday's event (8/25/07) through Angela Toomer and other IBM colleagues, my VERY HONEST first thought was, "I'm not TRYING to go into Newark! No way, no how!" But then, I smacked myself and came back with "who am I to be afraid to go into my OWN community and try to help my OWN kids???" We all understand the need to be safe and use common sense in ANY urban area; but making assumptions based on the name of a city is a WEAK excuse for sitting on the sidelines and doing nothing (Note: I know that many of you are already doing your part so this line is directed only to those out there who were like ME -- shaking my head but holding my hands from the burbs =). Anyway, this former BAP decided to get real and get involved. Personally speaking, participation in this event was very important to me on a lot of levels, mostly because it gave me a chance to try to make a positive difference in a child's life...even for a day. As most of you know, had my grandmother not been the extraordinary Superwoman that she was, I could very easily have been a mentee rather than a mentor. It felt good to give of my time and myself, but most importantly, it was GREAT to 'receive' thru the excitement and engagement of the youths in the discussions we had with them. The mentee with whom I spent most of my day was on the SAME academic and career aspiration path as the one I'd taken in high school so I was able to speak to her first hand about very real options for her professional pursuits in life.

The Gods are in alignment! You guys are coming here on Saturday and my daughter and I are so excited! We are actually trying to ditch Saturday School just to be there early. . . Now what kind of mother encourages her child to skip school? We both read "The Pact" and she recently read "We Beat the Streets." I am so excited. I may surprise her and purchase a stethoscope and something else for you guys to autograph. I understand that you guys are extremely busy - thanks for making a HUGE difference - so as a reminder, my daughter is 11 years old and she IS Dr. Franklin. She eventually will own a hospital in Washington, DC and she is going to have Asthma Institute. She is serious about finding a cure for asthma!

You guys are her (our) idols! I love you guys! I will be the parent with the big smile on my face and my daughter will be the one jumping up and down. I will be jumping up and down inside but I am a little too old and I don't get to be "Cool Mom"

Please don't stop what you are doing. Please don't stop. We need you guys. We love you and respect you so much.

I HAVEN'T EVEN READ THIS BOOK YET BUT AFTER SEEING THE REVIEW ON USA TODAY I AM FIRED UP AND READY. I AM YOUR AGE AND GREW UP NOT KNOWING MY FATHER....STILL NOT INTERESTED! I HAVE TWO COLLEGE DEGFREES AND WORK IN THE MARKETING FIELD HERE IN CALIFORNIA. SAME TROUBLE AS YOU DATING WOMEN AS YOU DESCRIBED ... IT MEANS SO MUCH TO HAVE A FATHER. THANKS ONCE AGAIN

It was obvious the impact that the three of you had on the youngsters Oct.3rd in Harlem. You might not know this, but many arrived one hour early to see you. It was great seeing you all again! You made such an impact on us all, both young and old. We are grateful for your writing books and sharing your experiences, ideas, thoughts with us. Debra is truly sorry she missed you. May God continue to bless you and your families always.

I just recently reread The Pact and I’d noticed there was an e-mail address at the end of the book. I just wanted to let you three know what an impact you have on young people’s life. Thank you, actually I am a college student now and I was tempted to just quit, I told my aunt and she just handed me the book.... Anyway I just wanted to say thank you for telling your stories, you inspire a lot of young people.

I cried tears of joy. I cried because I am so proud of you guys. I cried because you guys give me hope. My daughter IS Dr. Franklin. As a matter of fact, in a few years, you're going to have to change to the FOUR doctors. I thought that after reading the pact I "got" your story. I didn't! My eyes were opened when I got to behold you this afternoon. Neither Beyonce, Denzel, Mary J, nor anyone else has had that effect on me. I love you guys and NOW . . . I get it. I get the plight of afro America and the lack of male role models, mentors, and fathers . . . you guys are more than doctors. You are healers. Thank you for taking a stand to heal wounded families the world throughout. I love you!

Thank you so very much for the update. I actually received my two copies last week. I am sending one copy to my nephew. I sent him your first book and he was blown away. This coming from a 19 year old who never really liked to read.

Please tell me that you are coming to Atlanta!

I have heard of you for a while now, but I happened to catch a glimpse of you on TV the other day, and what I heard prompted me to write.

A good friend of mine (now a professor at Morehouse) graduated from the same high school that you all went to in '91. That's what initially made your story stand out to me when I ran across it several years ago.

I am really impressed with each one of you. (I listened to all of you speak on the ivillage something -- I'd never seen the show before, but I'm so happy I caught it yesterday.)

Anyway, my compliment is not coming from the "You're so articulate" or "Wow, you're a real credit..." school of thought. (I've heard enough of that in my day -- so annoying.) I happen to be blessed to know many intelligent, successful, African-American men who give back to their communities, etc. Even though that story is under told, I know that there are plenty of good brothers around.

But, I did want to take a moment to write, because I was struck by your emphasis on becoming "the Michael Jordan’s" of education, as well as, how well you are using the platform your success has provided you.

You all are very inspirational. I commend you. I will get your books and read them myself, then share them with some young people in my life. (family members, at my church, my students, etc.)

I signed up on this site to be on the volunteer list, so maybe I will get to meet you in person one day.

But, if not, please know that I fully support your mission and I appreciate your example.

Lastly, I found your message of the importance of fathers really wonderful. I have been blessed to have a great relationship with my incredible father for my entire life. (He and my mother just celebrated their 37th anniversary!) But, I know that many people do not have this, and harbor resentment/anger, etc. Fatherhood, especially Black fatherhood, is critically needed in our community. Thanks for that message, as well. I look forward to reading your fathers' stories in your book, as well.

I'm going to e-mail your site to my dad (in Cincinnati, Ohio) -- he does a lot of volunteer work with young people. I'm sure he's heard of you before, but he might not know about your books. Hopefully, he'll pass them along.

I bought the book and have begun reading it and it is definitely words spoken directly from the heart. I'm the product too of a single mother who raised two children (I'm the youngest and only son). So far in the book, I’m almost done with Dr. Jenkins section. I understand what he means when he says he quit working on it for a while because it opened up so many old wounds. His section is a literal mirror of my life, growth and personal development. I've had to pause periodically while reading because I'm traveling down that emotional lane again. My father and I have never had a relationship, still don't. We don't talk at all. It's not sad though. That's just the way it is. A couple years ago I made the effort to reconnect with him because I want to begin the process of 'overcoming my issues.' The unforgiveness I was harboring was an emotional wrecking ball that was causing my life to crumble in every area possible. But I did it (that's a story within itself). While reading Dr. Jenkins section I stop and think to myself, "There really was someone else on earth experiencing what I was in life" - almost to an exact description. Amazingly, I thought I was totally alone. It's astonishing how sharing changes one's perspective.

Three years ago I began volunteering as a mentor for a program called VIP mentoring. My mentee and I got along great! We met on a weekly basis. When I picked him up his family always talked of how quiet he could be and would tell him (in front of me), "don't be afraid to talk." Ironically he talked from the moment we got in the car until the moment I dropped him off at home. To make a long story a short he had somewhat of an emotional breakdown and spoke of suicidal wishes. He was taken to a juvenile counseling facility and I went to visit him. On my last visit I arrived to find he had been checked out. We lost contact. I took some of the blame of that on myself and didn't want to mentor again until I felt it was ... safe. But after reading (up to page 52 so far) I've realized that the journey has no end and there are many fatherless young men & women with whom I need to share my life and inspiration. Thanks again and I hope our paths to success will cross again. Till then, keeps the mission going!

I just read your book at my school, west port in Florida, and I loved it!! I like how you 3 were always there for each other no matter what. And I love how God has used you three to change the lives of many and many to come. You have changed my life and I thank you for it.

I am a student currently attending high school. It's my first year, which makes me a freshmen. My English class is reading your book. We've just started reading the first couple chapters. Everything that goes on is of course very real because it has already happened. It's very inspiring to read about young people trying so hard to stay on the safe side of the street. A lot of people can relate to all of your troubles. Becoming someone is very hard in such a rough environment. So I can see the peer pressure that all of you had to go through. Most people usually don't ever think much of themselves. So I can see why all of you had such a hard time with following through your pact. In the end you all came through and are all successful. I myself am not sure of what I want to be and what I want to do. It's so easy to loose ourselves in such a big world. I am very touched and hope that I myself can be an inspiration to other young people as well. If only I knew how that is. Any who thanks for taking the time in reading this. I'm unsure if I make sense but hopefully you'll get my meaning.

I think your amazing people. You got through the problems by staying together and stayed away from wrong influences. You guys became successful people from a dangerous society. You taught everyone that you can be successful if you have someone who believed in you. You inspired me to follow my dreams and do my best to stay away from negative influences.

In our English class we are reading your book "The Pact". This book is very inspiring. It helps young teens like myself realize what I could become if I keep myself out of trouble. I myself also grew up without my dad around and I get a lot of peer pressure from my friends. I too gave in one time and got in trouble with the law. I got a free ticket out of jail that time though. From reading form your experiences I realized that Ramond Hall or even jail would be very scary.

All of you three grew up around a lot of violence and drugs. I know from experience that it is hard to live in a place like that. But you all also made it to college and on from there to become doctors.

You guys are people that kids could look up to and dream about being like when they grow up. Your book also shows that people get more than one chance and that you can learn from your mistakes. Also that life can be very hard but all you need is friends, family, to believe in yourself and hard work to get through it.

I was introduced to your platform by a former classmate of mine. She recently attended one of your lectures and book signings and was very impressed. I am originally a native of New Jersey but I currently reside in Richmond Virginia. This year Virginia's crime rate among our black youth has risen considerably. I have a seven year old son that I am currently raising by myself. I believe that the men and children can definitely benefit from your positive message. The outlook you guys have on different aspects of life can guide others to mirror some of the powerful strides you were blessed to take. I believe your presence can benefit and inspire people of color especially our children. I say all of this to persuade you to open your book tour to include the Richmond Virginia area if possible. If not I still wish you all the success you so rightfully deserve.

The Pack is really interesting. All of you had a very hard life and is it kind of similar to mine but then it isn’t. After reading your book it inspires me to always stay in school and do my best in life. It also taught me to do things my way and not to follow what everybody else is doing. Now I know from reading your book, is to never give up and always keep trying. If all of you guys can get a good career the way you did then I can too. I kind of live in the ghetto but it isn’t as hard for me as it was for all of you. I really do want to make it to college and be a hairstylist, but that would only be for my back up plan. I really want to become a famous singer because I love to sing and when I sing I feel like I am expressing my true feelings. But my bad this isn’t about me this is about you guys. May you believe it or not all of you are miracles?

After reading your book I was inspired by your lives and how you all accomplished a goal to become a doctor. I can relate to your lives when you were younger because I lived through it. I grew up in a bad neighborhood with drug dealers and gangs. It didn't stop me from going to school and trying my best. Also I do have similarities, my parents were separated and I took a large responsibility to take care of my younger siblings. After reading your stories it helped me a lot to get through all the obstacles that came my way. Like I always wanted to become a doctor but I was afraid that I couldn't accomplish my goal because I didn't have the money. Now I'm going to try to take special programs that would help me get a scholarship to a college. So thank you again for speaking out about your lives because your story inspired me a lot.

A few weeks ago while browsing at Borders Bookstore in Chicago; I discovered your book We Beat The Street. I purchased it with enthusiasm to share with my 10 year old grandson and 14 year old son. At the register I saw a flyer regarding your upcoming event in our city. You all were all I talked about for weeks. I did attend your signing and I have to say sitting in the audience I felt like a big sister filled with hope, pride and joy in hearing you. I've finished The Bond and your story is touching and it relates to so many of us who grew up in similar circumstances. In my efforts to encourage reading, my children and I are reading We Beat The Street together and it allows us to have conversation about the story. I want to say thank you and may God continue to bless you in all that you do.

It is exciting that you three are on a tour to encourage young men along with girls that you have lived through all these situations-then came out the winner. Keep up the positive work in which you are involved. I praise the Lord for young men who are wiling to stand up and speak honestly. Today's young people need your honesty more than ever. May God continue to bless the three of you and with your families.

I probably should not be posting on here but I am going to any way. Thank you so much for coming out to our store on Monday. You guys were a pleasure to have and your story touched everyone. We are all still talking about the event, and those that were not there wished they had been. Good luck to you all in the future and I am honored to help promote your soon to be New York Times Bestseller book.

In my English class we're ready your book The Pact. Reading the book inspired me even more to follow my dreams even more. When I get older I too want to be in the medical fields. I want to be a psychiatrist. This career has been in mind for a while now. I know I have to go to college for eight years and I'm up for the long road ahead. Just the book makes me feel like my dream isn't as far as it seems.

I'm a freshman right now so in three more years I will graduate on time. Then, hopefully, with eight more years of schooling (preferably Brown University in Rhode Island) and getting a master in psychology I will be even closer reaching my dreams like you all did. I'm sure you probably won't remember me; but I will surely remember you three and your story.

Thank you so much for including Houston on your book tour. We are ALL so proud of you and grateful for the work you are doing in the community! You are an amazing inspiration to all who hear and read your story. I hope to have the opportunity to work with you all one day to aid in the success of your organization. Please let me know if you need anything!!

On last Tuesday Oct. 16th, 2007 you spoke at the University of Washington. I was unfortunate to make it as well as my fiancé Curtis Thomas, but you may recall his name as you stopped and took the time to write him personal messages in his book. I was overwhelmed with joy when I received the book back from my professor Mrs. Zynovia Hetherington. It meant so much for me to get this book signed by the three of you and it was truly a blessing for you to add persona notes. Curtis had no idea that you were coming to the University of WA nor was he aware of your new book, because of him being currently deployed and serving our country in Iraq. This is all a surprise to him and now evens more of a surprise. Words cannot express the appreciation that I have for the three of you and the work that you are doing. I pray that God will continue to bless you and your work, and may the lives that you speak to and the communities you reach continue to be blessed.

Just a quick note to thank you for your insightful presentation in Dallas on Monday evening. I recently moved to Dallas from Baltimore, where I taught fourth grade on the city's notorious west side (If you've read "The Corner," you know where my school was). I read aloud "The Pact" every year to my kids so they could see that men, who looked like them, sounded like them and grew up like them could be successful -- with a commitment to education.

On Monday night you signed a copy of The Pact to Tyrelle, one of my most spirited kiddos who are now in 9th grade at one of Baltimore's most prestigious private boys' schools. He often reminds me that "The Pact" is what he thinks of when things get challenging. I am flying to Baltimore to surprise him this weekend as he receives a presidential scholarship for academic achievement. I know his autographed copy of "The Pact" will be his favorite gift.

I attend Baltimore city Community college studying nursing. Not to long ago I said I was going to change my major because I thought it was too difficult and to much to do. As I read along and watched the movie I saw an impact on my life and realized that I can do anything I put my mind to. Thank you for changing my mind on my major and myself. I just want to thank you all for The Pact.

I would to say thank you for writing this book. My English class just finishes reading it and we all enjoyed it. I am passing this book along to my boyfriend so that he can inspire to want to do better. After reading the book it is pushing me to work harder for my degree. Thanks again.

Beloved Brothers, Man, do y'all have any idea what a Blessing you are? I'm a grown man and you've done more for me than you could imagine. I pray we'll share the same physical space some day, especially in the context of the work I do. In the meantime, knowing that you EXIST is sufficient inspiration.

I just wanted to say THANK YOU for "The Pact" and "The Bond". These books were great reads and I have passed them along as gifts to my 23 year old son and 12 year old son. I am a single mom and I am so proud of you three young men because you guys are truly God-sent angels that truly have a gift to share and that is each other to other children that our society has written off. THANK YOU and God still is not finish with blessing you guys, the best is yet to come.

Hi, my name is Sarah and I'm in tenth grade. I just finished reading The Pact for a book report I have due and I became so inspired! I have trouble getting through school sometimes and after reading your book I don't feel alone and you gave me so much encouragement. You made me truly realize the power of friendship and getting involved with the right people. Also, now I have a better idea and feeling for what it’s like growing up in such a hard place. I thought I had it bad before, you made me appreciate what I have. Your organization sounds so amazing! I just wanted to personally thank you guys for writing your story, it inspired me so much, and I'm encouraging all my other friends to read it as well.

Hello.  One day on my way to work (in NYC) I noticed a picture of the guys on USA today. I think a few days after that I went to purchase it and began to read it immediately. I was telling many of my friends especially my male friends to read the book. I must say I really enjoyed the book and your honest feelings that you all gave to the readers. I, myself have a very different story with my birth father, but I have yet come to terms on how to handle the situation. It seems whenever I get the nerve I just don't go thought with it. Is it painful...Yes! I would love to talk about it but I often say what the point is. The fear of his rejection is my highest concern. 

I am a 7th grader in S.C. In our class we are reading We Beat the Streets. Right now we are only about half way through the book, and today I was begging my Mom to go out to Barnes and Noble and get a copy I am enjoying it so much! The stories are very inspiring, and it is just unimaginable what you guys had to go through. This makes all of us realize how blessed we are. That shows that friendships can really last through the end! My Dad is currently in Afghanistan. So reading the book has been very helpful in the emotional situation. My Mom and brother really enjoy the book as well. I was looking at the book today and saw the website at the back of the book. So, I thought that I would visit the website. I think that you guys are great role model about how you decided to turn your life around. I think that it is great of how you guys stuck together. As my Dad would say, "Ya’ll are brothers!!" I fact, when I get older, I want to be a doctor. I really want to be a physical therapist. I was hoping that you would please email back. I would love to hear from you guys. Thank you for everything.