Shift Program

WHAT IS S.H.I.F.T.?

The framework that runs through everything we do.

S.H.I.F.T. is not a program. It's the philosophy underneath every program. Shaped by Africentric psychology, the BRUH approach, and the lived knowledge of the communities we serve — S.H.I.F.T. is how we think, how we build, and how we show up. Every program at Project X LB — from youth development to family healing to community gatherings — is fed by this root system. The methods change. The populations change. The framework holds.

THE FIVE PILLARS

Each letter carries a commitment. Together they form the system that guides our work.

Support

Showing up with what's needed — not what's convenient. Consistent presence and the kind of reliability that rebuilds trust.

Heal

Trauma-informed, culturally grounded practices that honor each person's story. Healing isn't linear, and we don't pretend it is.

Inspire

Creative expression, mentorship, and real opportunities — the kind that make someone see a future they haven't been shown before.

Flourish

Building the conditions where families actually get ahead, stable housing, economic access, belonging and not just surviving another month.

Transform

Changing the systems themselves so the next generation inherits different conditions and not the same cycles dressed up in a new language.

THE B.R.U.H. APPROACH

The Bonding through Recognition to promote Understanding and Healing (BRuH) approach, developed by Dr. Allen E. Lipscomb, is a culturally grounded model designed to support Black men and youth navigating trauma and grief. At Project X LB, BRuH helps guide our SHIFT programs and community work, creating healing-centered spaces where youth of color and other young people can grow, lead, and thrive.

Bonding

The first step is building genuine relationships. Through consistent presence, shared experiences, and trusted mentorship, youth develop a sense of belonging and emotional safety. Bonding creates the foundation that allows young people to open up, participate, and engage in deeper reflection.

Understanding

This stage helps youth explore how their experiences, environments, and relationships influence their thoughts and behaviors. By developing emotional awareness and empathy, participants begin to better understand themselves and others while strengthening their ability to make intentional choices.

Recognition

Once trust is established, youth are encouraged to recognize their emotions, experiences, and personal strengths. Through art, journaling, dialogue, and creative expression, participants begin to name what they are feeling and acknowledge the realities that shape their lives.

Healing

Healing focuses on growth, resilience, and restoration. Through supportive community spaces, creative expression, and reflection, youth learn healthy ways to process emotions, rebuild confidence, and move forward with greater clarity and purpose.

RESEARCH & ATTRIBUTION

The BRUH Approach to Therapy (BAT) was developed by Dr. Allen E. Lipscomb, PsyD, LCSW. His model introduces a culturally congruent, anti-oppressive, and honoring-based practice for promoting healing among African American and Black men and youth who have experienced various forms of loss, including racialized traumatic grief.

Project X LB applies the principles of the BRUH Approach across our programming with deep respect for its origins and ongoing evolution in clinical practice.

Reference: Lipscomb, A. E. (2020). BRuH Approach to Therapy (BAT) and Other Related Services to Promote Healing of Traumatic Grief Among African American Men and Youth: A Clinical Workbook: Honoring-Based Practice Approach.

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