Powerful Beyond Measure (PBM) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that implements efforts towards youth development; focusing on academic, professional, creative, personal, civic and social growth by strategically integrating the arts, entertainment, sports and media industries into programming. Our vision is to utilize these influential fields to reach the urban communities of our targeted youth, via creative and multi-dimensional services that will help positively shape young people and empower the adults around them to become active leaders and contributors.
PBM utilizes the arts, entertainment and sports as tools to motivate. This approach was developed upon the realization that these fields are powerful by way of their appeal and influence on our target population. By harnessing that power to make programs more appealing, we can continue to implement the important values and societal offerings of more conventional non-profits.
PBM is volunteer run. It is primarily funded by donations and corporate sponsorships. Founded in 2006, the organization began with its charter program, C.A.P.E. League (see below) – a multi-dimensional youth program. In 2007, we launched Exploring Possibilities, a unique career day for young adults to discover non-traditional professions. Since 2008, we have produced PBM’s Weekly Source Email – an on-line newsletter distributed to DC area residents, community groups and non-profits. It lists public events, job openings, services, scholarships and programs. PBM also offers the EO List – a weekly listing of jobs across the nation in the media, marketing, publishing and sports.
Powerful Beyond Measure believes we can help each other realize our potential for greatness, inspire the pursuit of success, and make powerful strides by working together for altruistic purposes.
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”– Marianne Williamson from A Return To Love: Reflections on the Principles of A Course in Miracles
