This study sought to understand the societal and educational barriers African-American high school male teens encounter preventing the participation of organizations providing college and career training. This project utilized an exploratory sequential mixed-method study that included research-based surveys to measure developed individual and relationship assets, focus groups to understand peer groups and friendships, and one-on-one interviews to comprehend family relationships. The setting for this study was several afterschool programs serving students attending a school district in a large southern city. The findings showed that students were not truly thriving in critical key measured assets but attained strong relationships outside of the family. Additionally, friend groups were not as impactful in inspiring youth, and family motivation was almost always present. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]