A simple handshake. Looking someone in the eye.

These traits are being taught to young men in Brevard County.

  • Tied Together mentoring event in West Melbourne
  • Program provides mentors to young men, teaching life skills
  • Over 7,000 boys have gone through the program in the last 4 years

It's the latest 'Tied Together' mentoring event.

This time at West Melbourne's Central Middle School, seventh and eighth grade boys are each getting a life lesson.

More than 30 men, each a community leader, did their part for the 'Tied Together' program Friday.

"A role model needs to be there everyday," said Tied Together founder Glen Outlaw. "They need to see the ups and downs of how they deal with the struggles of life."

It's back to basics.

For men, tying a tie is something learned, and eventually for some, something essential to success.

A firm handshake says a lot about a person.

The men are taking groups of the youngsters, and teaching them something real, and symbolic, all at the same time.

"They need a strong foundation," said Outlaw. "They need an alternative to what's out there."

One bunch included three generations of Lorente men -- 13-year-old Ariel, his father Miguel and grandfather Abe.

The youngest learned how to tie a tie. They bonded Friday.

"It's a good greeting," Ariel said of the handshake.

"These are important things for a young man to know," Miguel Lorente said. "How to shake someone's hand, how to be confident. It's what you have to do to make your way in the world."

Tied Together has been in action for four years, grooming more than 7,000 boys.

"We instill these values, so when they are making choices, they know why," said Outlaw.

Learn more about the program by going to the Tied Together website.