about US
At Grown Men Growing Men (GMGM), we are a dedicated community of experienced and mature men committed to mentoring, guiding, and empowering men to become their healthiest and most fulfilled selves. Our mission is to inspire growth, share wisdom, and help each individual on their journey toward personal excellence.
Our leadership team, made up of men who understand the complexities of life, offers their time to listen, learn, and walk alongside each member. We believe in fostering a culture of support and connection, where each man can discover and tap into his potential. We are here to connect you with the right resources, whether it be mentorship, referrals, or tools that propel you toward your goals.
Grown Men Growing Men offers the following services:
Talk & Pray:
Life can be overwhelming, and sometimes, all a man needs is someone who will listen and offer spiritual support. Our "Talk & Pray" sessions provide a safe space for you to share what you’re going through while receiving thoughtful prayer and encouragement. To schedule an appointment, simply reach out to us via email at grownmengrowing@gmail.com.
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In-Person Events:
Building strong, meaningful relationships is key to personal growth. Our in-person gatherings provide opportunities for connection and camaraderie, whether through attending sporting events, social outings, or community service. These events foster an environment where men can forge healthy, supportive bonds that last.
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Young Men 2 Grown Men Mentoring : Ages 13-19
Sometimes, growth happens best in community. Our group mentoring sessions bring men together to share experiences, learn from each other, and develop strategies for handling life’s challenges. These sessions foster a brotherhood where every voice is heard, and every story matters.
our Team
Josh Cotton
Founder
Joshua is a passionate and driven leader with a collaborative spirit. Born and raised on the South Side of Chicago, he brings nearly 30 years of sales experience to every interaction, using his gifts to uplift and encourage everyone he meets.
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With a deep commitment to his faith, Joshua has served his church in various roles over the years. Whether greeting guests, teaching Sunday School, or delivering heartfelt messages to the congregation, his desire to serve others is evident in all he does.
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Joshua's heart for service extends beyond the church. He has dedicated his time to working with young adults with mental disabilities and delivering food to seniors in his community. His genuine care for others is reflected in his actions, making a lasting impact on the lives he touches.
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At the core of Joshua’s mission is a desire to see men healed, developed, and walking in their God-given purpose. He has a unique ability to bring people together, creating spaces where men can unite around common goals and grow. Above all, Joshua finds joy in spending quality time with his wife and children, cherishing the moments they share.
Mark Cotton
Talk N Pray Leader
Mark Cotton is a devoted man of God and a dedicated single father, raising four remarkable teenagers with love, guidance, and strong values. His role as a parent has shaped him into a nurturing and resilient leader, always striving to lead by example both at home and in the community.
With a background as an environmental service technician, Mark has honed a range of practical skills, which he now applies to support and grow his family’s business, 4P Industrial Cleaning Corp. His commitment to excellence and hard work has played a key role in the company’s success, helping it thrive in an ever-evolving industry.
For the past decade, Mark has faithfully served as a minister at God With Us Christian Center, where his spiritual leadership and passion for ministry have impacted countless lives. Additionally, with nearly 40 years of experience as a drummer, Mark brings a unique blend of creativity and discipline to everything he does, from ministry to music.
Mark’s innovative spirit drives him to constantly explore new ways to accomplish tasks and solve problems. Whether in his professional life or his role as a mentor and spiritual leader, he is always looking for creative approaches to serve others and make a difference.
Daniel Jones
Inspirational Lifestyle Leader
Daniel Jones is a seasoned leader in the Training and Development industry with over a decade of experience mentoring and training professionals to excel in their leadership roles. He is deeply passionate about equipping leaders with practical tools, strategies, and techniques that empower them to lead effectively and reach their highest potential.
A graduate of Western Illinois University with a degree in Social Work, Daniel is also a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. In addition to his professional achievements, he is a licensed minister and currently serves as the Assistant Pastor of True Foundation Church. In this role, Daniel has embraced his calling to help others deepen their relationship with God and grow spiritually.
As a devoted husband of 15 years and father to three beautiful children, Daniel places a strong emphasis on family. His ministry work is focused on strengthening marriages and fostering the spiritual development of men through dedicated mentorship and guidance.
Recognized for his energetic and engaging speaking style, Daniel captivates audiences with his ability to motivate and inspire through simple, actionable concepts. His passion for uplifting others is evident in every aspect of his work, making a lasting impact wherever he goes.
Earnest Robinson
Treasurer
Earnest Robinson Jr is a small town guy who enjoys the big city. He is the only son of Earnest Robinson Sr and Ozzie Robinson. He has three sisters, Kathie, Myrina and Karina. He has worked in Atlanta and Chicago as a Hotel Manager for more than 15 years. He enjoys cooking and live music performances in small venues.
Khalid B. Scott (LCSW)
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Khalid B. Scott, BS, MSW, LCSW, CADC, CODP-I, C-SWHC, CWEL, LPHA, has a Social Work career spanning over 28 years and the recipient of over 20 Social Service related awards.
Currently he’s a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Specialist at the Department of Veterans Affairs and in private practice with International High Achievers.
Khalid is a contractual psycho-social individual, family and marriage therapist with CLO Psychologicals. Khalid is also a contractual trainer and college lecturer at Adler School of Psychology, Columbia, CSU, Malcolm X, Governors State, UIC, Moraine Valley and DePaul University (MSW program-Chicago campuses). Khalid has been a Administrator in specialized foster care, mental health and substance use disorder programs.
Khalid received his BS in Corrections and Criminal Justice from CSU and MSW from UIC Jane Addams (College of Social Work).
Khalid, whose a single father and in his spare time mentors both adults and youths, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and provides social work-based Zoom/in person trainings/workshops and is a motivational speaker for various Chicagoland forums and self-empowerment events.
Khalid is a published author in 7 books, has appeared on several TV talk shows (as a featured guest clinician), as well has appeared on multiple radio talk shows, newspapers (Sun-times) and magazines (Ebony-Jet).
Khalid is a 10 time award winning veteran serving 9-1/2 years combined in both the US Army and Illinois Army National Guard.
Be phenomenal,
Khalid Scott, BS, MSW, LCSW, CADC, CODP-1
C-SWHC, CWEL, LPHA
Sergio D. Dixon MHP
Minister, Counselor
Sergio D. Dixon is a dedicated minister, counselor, and U.S. Army combat veteran. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Moody Bible Institute, with a minor in Bible and Theology. Currently, Sergio is pursuing a dual Master’s degree in Divinity and Counseling (MDiv/MAPC) at Loyola University, furthering his commitment to both spiritual and emotional wellness.
With a proven history in individual, family, and mental health services, Sergio brings a wealth of experience to his work. His background also includes a strong foundation in customer service, having served as a Site Director, where he honed his skills in youth development, public speaking, and supporting the veteran community.
Sergio’s passion lies in leading others toward health, healing, and wholeness. Through his work, he strives to make a lasting impact, guiding individuals on their journey toward personal and spiritual growth.
Joseph Jackson Thomas Jr.
Counselor
Joseph S Thomas Jr has 30 + years of professional experience in the health care science field. He's helped thousands of addiction families become drug free. Joseph had obtain his MHS in Addiction Studies, B.A. in Criminal Justice, DUI Service Provider and Certified Recovery Coach. To contact, Joseph, call 708 945-0010 or email jtchgohts12@gmail.com
James Peek Jr was born and raised on the Westside of Chicago Illinois in a neighborhood called Ktown. I overcame drug addiction in and I've been clean and sober for 29 consecutive years. I'm currently a substance abuse counselor at Hartgrove Behavior hospital. I've been working in the social service industry since 2001. My experience includes mentoring, outreach and recovery support. I was recently appointed the director of a Men's Ministry which covers the great lakes region. I live to make a difference in the lives of others.
James Peek Jr
Substance Abuse Counselor
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My name is Riccardo Ivery, I’m married with children and am a veteran of the US Army. My background is in sales and marketing, I currently work in the legal division of a medical subrogation company and run a small side business in the health and wealth field. As a volunteer at my local church, I serve as one of their video directors. When I’m not working, I enjoy working out at the gym, going to the beaches, and spending time with my family. Being a follower of Christ, my mission is to love and serve people to life. I truly want to see every life radically transformed by the power and presence of God.
Riccardo Ivery
Rockeem Shields
Social Media & Website Creator
