Torero Diaries

Family First is a circle of friends bound together by a positive affiliation dissimilar to those associated with gangs and other negative stereotypes in which teens are labeled.
The idea behind Family First is complex. Some may   relate it to a fraternity, as we are establishing a brotherhood.  However, instead of being a cult or organization, our connection with one another is simply based upon pure friendship and loyalty, not show and tell. Family First is far from being considered a gang because our purpose is to promote positive change within the community, not tear it down.  In reality, we are all just a large circle of close friends. There are no big brothers, leaders and pledging because we are all leaders. We’re not as controlling as a gang or fraternity, we just want to impact our communities in a postitive way.
The concept behind Family First is exactly what its title implies, keeping your family first and making sure you’re living a wholesome lifestyle that will rub off on your peers, as well as your own biological and extended family. The group of guys I know  that are involved within the circle are like brothers to me and they are part of an extended family. We look out for each other and try to create new avenues for all of us to be successful.
This movement was started by a group of talented and athletic individuals - Marshawn Lynch, Verdell Larkins  and Robert Jordan.  At that time they were all attending the University of California, Berkeley.  
Their intentions were solely to serve as positive role models to those who would be brought up after them. The concept then spread like wildfire, and the group’s message branched out to members of their former high schools in the Bay Area.
For example, members of Oakland Technical High School and Hayward High School athletics immediately began representing the motto established by this lifestyle.  Former USD All-American quarterback Josh Johnson, former University of North Carolina guard Quentin Thomas and many others playing sports across the nation are representing this family as well.
Family First has a very talented and educated circle which not only promotes and supports athletics, but other extra-curricular activities such as music, art and mentoring the youth. There are a group of artists exploring all the legal, and positive avenues as a way to “make it” in society and strive for success within this economy. At the end of the day, it is always important to put family first.