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Real Men Real Talk

A Conversation Series for Men in Our Community

Series: Monthly in-person sessions

Time: 6:00–7:30 p.m.

Location: Southwest Community Center, 401 South Ave, Syracuse, NY 13204

Who: Men ages 16 and up | Cost: Free to join

Light refreshments are provided at each session.

Overview

Real Men Real Talk offers space for men to grow, connect, and lead in our community through real, open conversation free from judgment.

This ongoing conversation series invites men ages 16 and up into a supportive environment where you can show up as yourself, talk about what matters, and hear from others who are navigating many of the same questions you are. Sessions blend guided discussion, reflection, and practical tools for everyday life.

What We Talk About
Real Men Real Talk explores topics such as fatherhood, financial literacy, wellness, mental health, cooking, temptation, men’s health, healthy masculinity, mentorship, and more. Each session is grounded in honesty, empathy, and accountability.
How Sessions Work
Sessions consist of facilitated discussion, activities, and time for reflection, with light refreshments provided. You are welcome to participate in the way that feels right for you, whether that means speaking up, listening, or a bit of both.

Who This Series Is For

Real Men Real Talk is for men who want connection, conversation, and a place to keep growing.

This series may be a good fit if you:

  • Want a support system of men who are willing to show up, listen, and be real.
  • Are looking for a space to express your thoughts, questions, and experiences without judgment.
  • Want to know you are not alone in what you are facing in life, work, or relationships.
  • Are interested in exploring new ways of showing up for yourself and the people in your life with honesty and care.

No prior group experience is needed. You are welcome to come exactly as you are.

Why Participate in Real Men Real Talk?

Real Men Real Talk provides a space for men to connect, reflect, and practice healthier ways of showing up in their lives.

Real Men Real Talk provides a space to:

  • Connect with a support system of men who are willing to show up, listen, and be real.
  • Have space to express your thoughts, questions, and experiences without judgment.
  • Share and listen to real stories that affirm you are not alone in what you are facing.
  • Explore new ways of showing up for yourself and the people in your life with honesty, empathy, and accountability.

Each session is an opportunity to practice healthy masculinity, build community, and take small, meaningful steps toward the kind of man and leader you want to be.

Series Details

Format: In-person facilitated discussion series
Who: Men ages 16 and up
Cost: Free to join
Time: 6:00–7:30 p.m.
Location: Southwest Community Center, 401 South Ave, Syracuse, NY 13204
Refreshments: Light refreshments provided at each session
Upcoming Dates: April 16, May 21, June 18, July 16, August 20, September 17

How to Join

Reach out to connect with our Senior Education Project Coordinator, ask questions, and get details about upcoming sessions.

Connect with Koji Burdic

To learn more about Real Men Real Talk or to get started, contact:
Koji Burdic, Senior Education Project Coordinator, Engaging Men

Email: KBurdic@VeraHouse.org
Phone: (315) 425-0818, ext 2210

You do not have to figure everything out on your own. Real Men Real Talk offers space to connect, reflect, and keep growing alongside other men in your community.

This project is supported by Grant No. 15JOVW-22-GG-01083-ENGA from the Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Department of Justice.