Words by Tess Becker
Improving literacy rates through education is a surefire way to enhance people's chances at life. Unfortunately, we have yet to reach that goal. Children of color, in particular, lack the resources that their white counterparts benefit from and they can fall behind as a result.
According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress, a sector of the US Department of Education, 84% of Black students lack proficiency in mathematics and 85% of Black students lack proficiency in reading. A program in Fort Worth, Texas is working to address this learning gap.
AB Christian Learning Center’s literacy-focused Freedom School is a free summer program helping 200 kids who come from low-income families.
Students of color in the Fort Worth school district struggle with attainment at school and this program gives them a chance at consistency.
“If you can’t read, you can’t do anything in life,” Michelle Wright, a literacy specialist, has spent the past four summers working with children in Freedom School, said. “Reading is fundamental.”
Charity check-in
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
The Women Invested to Save Earth Fund. This organization helps support underrepresented and underfunded Black, indigenous, and women of color-led organizations across the world. Find out more and support them here.
Giraffe Conservation Foundation. They help nonprofits protect and conserve giraffes. Check them out here.
Florida Bicycle Association. An organization that helps mobilize people and promote greener living and safer biking. Find out more.
