The Mankind Project: A Comprehensive Overview
MKP’s foundational work included the creation of support materials, notably the “Original Manual for Men’s Support Groups,” later reissued in 2015, guiding group dynamics.
Origins and Founding (1984-1985)
The Mankind Project (MKP) emerged in 1984, taking root in Wisconsin, fueled by a growing cultural awareness of men’s issues. Bill Kauth, Rich Tosi, and Ron Hering, the core founders, initially connected through a shared experience: attending a training led by Justin Sterling in 1984. This training, focused on men’s work, proved pivotal, providing a catalyst for their collaborative efforts.
Prior to establishing MKP, the founders engaged in extensive discussions and explorations, recognizing a need for a new approach to men’s personal development. The early 1980s witnessed a burgeoning men’s movement, yet the founders felt something was missing – a deeper, more transformative experience.
By 1985, their vision materialized in the inaugural New Warrior Training Adventure, held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This marked the formal beginning of MKP, laying the groundwork for a unique methodology centered around initiatory experiences and ongoing peer support. The initial focus was on creating a space for men to confront their emotional landscapes and rediscover a sense of purpose.
Key Founders: Bill Kauth, Rich Tosi, and Ron Hering
Bill Kauth, Rich Tosi, and Ron Hering were instrumental in shaping The Mankind Project. Their combined vision and dedication propelled the organization from its nascent stages in 1984. Kauth, Tosi, and Hering’s shared experience in Justin Sterling’s training served as a foundational element, sparking their commitment to men’s work and personal growth.
Each founder brought unique strengths to the table. Tosi, later recognized as a social inventor, contributed significantly to the development of MKP’s methodologies. Kauth and Hering provided crucial leadership and organizational skills, essential for establishing a sustainable structure.
Beyond the initial New Warrior Training Adventure, these founders continued to refine and expand MKP’s offerings. Their collaborative spirit fostered an environment of innovation, leading to the creation of support groups and resources like the “Original Manual for Men’s Support Groups,” solidifying MKP’s impact on the men’s movement.
Influence of Justin Sterling’s Training
Justin Sterling’s training in 1984 proved pivotal for Bill Kauth, Rich Tosi, and Ron Hering, the future founders of The Mankind Project (MKP). This experience wasn’t merely an event; it was a catalyst, igniting a shared passion for exploring masculinity and personal development. The training provided a framework for understanding male psychology and the need for intentional community.
Sterling’s methods emphasized experiential learning and emotional vulnerability, concepts that would become cornerstones of the New Warrior Training Adventure. The founders absorbed techniques for facilitating deep self-reflection and group dynamics, later incorporated into the “Original Manual for Men’s Support Groups.”
This initial training wasn’t about replicating Sterling’s work, but rather about building upon it. Kauth, Tosi, and Hering sought to create a unique program tailored to the specific needs of men in the 1980s, ultimately launching a movement that continues to evolve today.
The New Warrior Training Adventure
First held in Wisconsin in January 1985, this initiatory retreat for men built upon principles outlined in early MKP support materials and training guides.
Core Principles and Philosophy
MKP’s core philosophy, deeply embedded within the New Warrior Training Adventure and subsequent men’s groups, centers on authentic self-expression and accountable brotherhood. The foundational principles weren’t simply theoretical; they were actively cultivated and disseminated through practical resources like the “Original Manual for Men’s Support Groups.”
This manual, and the training it supported, emphasized a departure from traditional masculine norms, encouraging men to explore vulnerability, emotional intelligence, and a deeper understanding of their own power dynamics. It aimed to create a safe space for men to confront limiting beliefs and patterns, fostering personal growth and responsible action.
The emphasis wasn’t on fixing men, but on facilitating a process of self-discovery and integration. The manual provided frameworks for effective communication, active listening, and holding each other accountable to higher standards of integrity. Ultimately, MKP’s philosophy, as reflected in its materials, sought to empower men to live more fully and contribute positively to the world.
The Initiatory Retreat Experience
While the “Original Manual for Men’s Support Groups” primarily focused on post-retreat integration, the principles it outlined were fundamentally shaped by, and prepared men for, the intensity of the New Warrior Training Adventure. The manual served as a preparatory guide, subtly introducing concepts of vulnerability and authentic expression that would be crucial during the retreat itself.
The retreat, first held in Wisconsin in January 1985, wasn’t directly detailed within the manual, as it was an experiential journey. However, the manual’s emphasis on accountability and responsible communication laid the groundwork for navigating the challenges presented during the initiatory process. It fostered a mindset of openness and a willingness to confront deeply held beliefs.
The retreat aimed to dismantle limiting masculine conditioning, and the manual provided tools for processing the emotional and psychological shifts that often occurred. It wasn’t a script for the experience, but a companion for the journey of self-discovery it initiated.
Historical Context: Early 1980s Men’s Movement
The emergence of the Mankind Project (MKP) and its “Original Manual for Men’s Support Groups” in the early 1980s wasn’t isolated; it arose within a broader cultural shift questioning traditional masculinity. This era saw a growing awareness of the limitations imposed by rigid gender roles and a desire for more authentic connection among men.
Prior to MKP, figures like Robert Bly were already sparking conversations about men’s emotional lives and the need for modern rites of passage. The manual, while practical in its approach to support groups, implicitly responded to this cultural yearning. It offered a structured way for men to explore their vulnerabilities and build stronger bonds.
The manual’s focus on self-responsibility and emotional intelligence reflected a departure from the stoic, emotionally repressed archetype prevalent in previous generations. It was a tool born from, and contributing to, a burgeoning movement seeking to redefine what it meant to be a man.
MKP’s Evolution and Growth
The “Original Manual for Men’s Support Groups” facilitated MKP’s expansion, providing a framework for replicating successful group models beyond the New Warrior Training Adventure.
Expansion Beyond the New Warrior Training
Following the initial success of the New Warrior Training Adventure, the ManKind Project (MKP) recognized the need to extend its reach and impact beyond this intensive, initiatory experience. A crucial element in this expansion was the development and dissemination of practical resources for ongoing support and integration. Central to this effort was the creation of the “Original Manual for Men’s Support Groups,” a guide designed to facilitate the formation and effective functioning of men’s circles.
This manual, later reissued in 2015, wasn’t merely a set of instructions; it represented a distillation of the principles and practices honed during the New Warrior work. It provided a structured approach to creating safe and supportive environments where men could explore their vulnerabilities, share their experiences, and cultivate deeper connections with one another. The manual’s availability allowed MKP to empower men to continue their personal growth journeys long after completing the retreat, fostering a network of ongoing support communities.
Essentially, the manual served as a catalyst, enabling MKP to move from offering a single, transformative event to building a sustainable ecosystem of masculine development. It allowed the core values and methodologies of the New Warrior Training to permeate broader circles, extending the organization’s influence and impact.
Development of Men’s Support Groups
A cornerstone of the ManKind Project’s (MKP) growth was the deliberate fostering of men’s support groups, extending the impact of the New Warrior Training Adventure. Recognizing the need for continued integration and ongoing personal work, MKP developed a practical resource: the “Original Manual for Men’s Support Groups.” This wasn’t simply an add-on, but a carefully crafted guide designed to replicate the core principles of safety, vulnerability, and authentic connection within smaller, locally-led circles.
The manual provided a framework for structuring meetings, facilitating discussions, and establishing group agreements. It emphasized the importance of active listening, non-judgmental acceptance, and a commitment to personal accountability. The 2015 reissue demonstrated the enduring relevance of these principles.
By empowering men to lead their own groups, MKP created a self-sustaining network of support, extending its reach far beyond the confines of the retreat itself. This decentralized model allowed the organization to scale its impact, offering accessible pathways for masculine development to a wider audience, and solidifying its role in the modern men’s movement.
The “Original Manual for Men’s Support Groups”
The “Original Manual for Men’s Support Groups,” a pivotal creation of the ManKind Project (MKP), served as a practical guide for sustaining the transformative work initiated at the New Warrior Training Adventure. First appearing alongside the early growth of MKP, it was thoughtfully reissued in 2015, affirming its continued relevance. This manual wasn’t merely a set of instructions, but a distillation of the principles fostering safety, vulnerability, and authentic connection.
It detailed methods for structuring effective group meetings, facilitating open and honest dialogue, and establishing clear agreements amongst members. The manual stressed the importance of active listening, offering support without judgment, and taking personal responsibility for one’s actions and growth.
Essentially, it provided a blueprint for men to create and maintain their own supportive communities, extending the reach of MKP’s work and solidifying its impact on the evolving landscape of men’s personal development.
MKP’s Impact and Legacy
MKP’s influence extends through resources like the “Original Manual,” empowering men to build supportive groups and revive essential rites of passage experiences.
Reviving Rites of Passage
MKP directly addresses a perceived cultural void – the lack of modern rites of passage for men. Historically, these ceremonies marked transitions into adulthood, providing guidance and community support. The ManKind Project, and specifically the New Warrior Training Adventure, was intentionally designed to fill this gap.
The “Original Manual for Men’s Support Groups” plays a crucial role in sustaining the impact of the initial training. It provides a framework for ongoing integration and continued personal growth, fostering a space where men can explore vulnerability and accountability.
By offering structured support groups guided by the principles outlined in the manual, MKP facilitates a continuous process of self-discovery and maturation. This isn’t simply about recreating ancient rituals, but about adapting the core function of rites of passage – initiation, mentorship, and community – to the needs of contemporary men. The manual ensures the longevity and accessibility of these principles beyond the intensive retreat experience.
Contribution to the Modern Men’s Group Movement
The ManKind Project is widely credited with launching the contemporary men’s group movement, establishing a model for structured, emotionally-focused gatherings. Prior to MKP, such spaces were less common and often lacked a defined methodology.
Central to this contribution is the “Original Manual for Men’s Support Groups.” This resource provided a practical guide for facilitating effective group dynamics, emphasizing principles of deep listening, non-judgmental sharing, and accountability. It offered a blueprint for others seeking to create similar spaces.
The manual’s influence extends beyond MKP-affiliated groups, inspiring countless independent men’s circles and workshops. It democratized access to tools for emotional intelligence and personal development, fostering a broader cultural shift towards greater male vulnerability and connection. The manual’s re-release in 2015 further solidified its enduring legacy within the movement.
Non-Profit Status and Organizational Structure
The ManKind Project operates as a non-profit organization, relying on donations and volunteer efforts to sustain its programs and initiatives. This structure reflects a commitment to accessibility and service, prioritizing impact over profit.
While the “Original Manual for Men’s Support Groups” is a key resource, MKP’s organizational structure extends beyond its creation. The organization is decentralized, with regional centers and local groups operating with a degree of autonomy, guided by overarching principles and standards.
This model allows for adaptability and responsiveness to diverse community needs. Leadership roles are typically filled by experienced MKP participants who have completed the New Warrior Training Adventure and demonstrated a commitment to the organization’s values. The non-profit status ensures transparency and accountability in financial management and program delivery.
Criticisms and Controversies
Despite its impact, MKP has faced scrutiny, prompting ongoing dialogue and refinement of its approaches, though the manual itself hasn’t been a central point.
Addressing Concerns and Misconceptions
MKP has proactively addressed various concerns over the years, often stemming from misunderstandings about its methods and intentions. While the “Original Manual for Men’s Support Groups” – and its 2015 reissue – serves as a core resource, criticisms haven’t centered specifically on the manual’s content itself. Instead, discussions frequently revolve around the intensity of the New Warrior Training Adventure and the potential for emotional vulnerability to be misconstrued.
Some initial anxieties related to the perceived “masculinity” focus, with critics questioning whether the work reinforced traditional gender roles. MKP responded by emphasizing its commitment to evolving definitions of masculinity and fostering inclusivity. Concerns about the cost of the New Warrior Training have also been raised, leading to scholarship programs and payment plans. The organization actively encourages open communication and feedback, continually refining its programs to address legitimate concerns and dispel misconceptions about its purpose and practices. Transparency and ongoing dialogue remain central to MKP’s approach.
Ongoing Dialogue and Refinement
MKP’s commitment extends beyond simply addressing criticisms; it actively fosters ongoing dialogue and continuous refinement of its programs. While the “Original Manual for Men’s Support Groups” provides a foundational framework, it isn’t static. The organization regularly solicits feedback from participants, facilitators, and the broader community to identify areas for improvement.
This iterative process involves updating training materials, refining facilitation techniques, and adapting to evolving societal understandings of masculinity and emotional intelligence. MKP acknowledges that the journey of self-discovery is ongoing, and its programs reflect this philosophy. The organization’s non-profit structure supports this commitment, allowing resources to be directed towards program development and accessibility. This dedication to evolution ensures that MKP remains relevant and responsive to the needs of the men it serves, continually striving to create a safe and transformative experience.