About us

When Passion Meets Precision

Growing steadily from humble beginnings

Martin Barnes is the founder of Black Sheep Mentoring Group (BSMG). He was born and raised on the west side of Chicago in the Lawndale area—an under-served community that, like many others in Chicago-land, has faced decades of systemic racial oppression and structural socioeconomic divestment. Despite the socioeconomic barriers designed to coerce, corral, and control Black bodies, Martin has persevered—navigating these challenges and reclaiming his narrative. His journey is a testament to resilience, advocacy, and purpose.

Rooted in quality and integrity

Martin is a published writer for Feather Bricks News Letter and a certified Peace Circle Trainer, a role focused on community and personal accountability through restorative practices. Martin is uniquely qualified through both lived experiences and academic training to serve and uplift his community. With your support, we can make a difference.

Striving for excellence

Martin is currently completing a Master of Arts in Restorative Justice Ministries (MARJM)at North Park Theological Seminary’s School of Restorative Arts (NPTS SRA). He serves as a committee member of the School of Restorative Art Advocacy Committee (SRA AC), which collaborates with organizations to reform the parole system in Illinois. Martin also mentors with Higher Education Ameliorate Lives (H.E.A.L.), a program created by NPTS SRA alumni that offers mentorship and college scholarships to youth. H.E.A.L. aims to transform hearts, minds, and hands that harm into hands that heal. Martin also completed college-level coursework through the Prison + Neighborhood Art Project (PNAP), an initiative offering education to incarcerated individuals. His studies included:

• Humanities / Race & Politics

• Restorative & Transformative Justice

 

Committed to crafting exceptional experiences

Martin studied Business Writing for Nonprofit Grant Writing, where he gained practical experience in:

• Proposal narratives

• Needs assessments

• Method statements

• Budgeting and evaluation strategies

• Sustainability planning

Martin has received training or certification in:

• Conflict Transformation

• Nonviolent Communication

• Trauma and Healing

• Community Building

• Grief Counseling

• Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG)