Expanding on what we have, while building something new.

Mr. Ricks created the Artistic and Academic Development Program, M.I.B&G (Mentors Inspiring Boys & Girls) for youth ages 5-18, aimed to provide a creative outlet for youth, and safe place for our youth to learn, grow, building community, self-esteem and self-confidence. The program also established a 7 week reasonably priced summer camp, to give youth who normally could not afford summer camp an opportunity to flourish in a fun and safe environment. Through the M.I.B&G program and summer camp, youth produce variety of shows which include, music, song, dance, skits and monologues throughout the year, showcasing their newfound skills. These performances brings in audiences of  300 to 400 people. Mr. Ricks co-authored the poetry and short story collections ‘My Voice,’ ‘Balance, ‘A Star Sprouted,’ ‘Nothing Redder Than The Beautiful Sunset,’  ‘Young Gifted and Going Places’ ‘This Mouth Will Speak, ’ with youth.  Mr. Ricks also co-authored and co-directed stage plays, ‘The Streets Are Talking,’ ‘Rated Real’ and ‘Resurrection of Hip Hop,’ with youth.  

For over 25 years, Robert Ricks has worked with numerous organizations including Writers & Books, the Rochester City School District, the City of Rochester Department of Youth Services, and Kumba Consultants, teaching theater and creative writing to youth. Mr. Ricks has mastered the art of weaving tales that touch and change lives.  His unique theater experience integrates song, monologue, poetry, comedy, and dance, in a way that everyone can relate to.  

His first novel, ‘Mastermind’ was released in January 2006, followed in 2009 by ‘Bastards and Bastresses.’  Both are centered on the issues facing today’s young people, although it’s written for adult audiences. 

His first play, ‘Down in the Dirt,’ conveys the story of inner-city pain, youth violence, absentee parents, the disease of addiction, teen pregnancy, hope, and the endless possibilities that reside in our tomorrows. Down in the Dirt was performed and embraced at several venues in Upstate New York, as well as local high schools and colleges such as Monroe Community College, St. John Fisher College, SUNY Potsdam, and Nazareth College. 

Robert’s second stage production, ‘Where Are You Lord-A Grandmother’s Prayer,’ merges two worlds–the spiritual and the natural.  It delves into alcoholism, drug addiction, youth violence, absent parents, and over-taxed grandparents.  This well-received production toured several cities.  In 2012, Mr. Ricks presented the musical ‘Generational Curses, A Dream Deferred-NOT DENIED’ which explores some of the issues afflicting our community that are passed down from one generation to the next. This production holds up a mirror and forces the audience to look at themselves. You will laugh, cry, and be inspired to grow and change. Mr. Ricks’ fourth play to hit the stage, ‘Black & Blues– A Powerful Stage Play’, tackles the aftermath of years of domestic and substance abuse, following one woman’s journey as she finds redemption. ‘Breaking the School to Prison Pipeline, was Mr. Ricks’ fifth stage production, which is a searing look at the things in our educational system, in our children’s homes and communities that lead to a criminal record or prison sentences instead of a high school diploma or a college degree.

Over the years, Ricks has garnered numerous awards and accolades from various organizations.  Mr. Ricks’ works have been well received and celebrated by diverse audiences. In 2003, Writers & Books honored him with the “Teacher of Young People” Award.  Mr. Ricks received the 2014 Man of the Year Award from the National Association of Negro Business & Professional Women’s Clubs Inc., He was recognized as the July 2014 Time Warner Cable News’ Unsung Hero. His play, Black & Blues won the 2014 Roc Awards for Best Stage Play and in July 2021 Mr. Ricks received the Believers Award from the City of Rochester. Mr. Ricks also received a plaque from Monroe County’s Legislature President Sabrina Lamar for his hard work and commitment to the youth in our community.  , Mr. Rick’s hope is that his continued youth advocacy work, on stage, in the classrooms, and in the community, will be the dose of reality desperately needed to overcome the litany of issues that plague our city.