Building Literacy and Activist Capacity in Kids’ Habits (B.L.A.C.K. Habits) is a book club that was specifically designed for Black boys, ages 7-11. It is separated into two grade level groups, 2nd/3rd graders and 4th/5th graders, with a maximum capacity of 15 students in each cohort. Each group meets for one hour, twice/week for 6-8 weeks, typically starting in early spring. Over the course of their time in the program, the cohorts of boys are guided through readings and discussions about topics that uniquely affect Black males, using a carefully curated list of age-appropriate books and articles. We have developed a curriculum that is purposed towards teaching how to: read with a critical lens, develop a social consciousness, apply information that is consumed to one’s personal context, and to inspire a life-long love of reading through exposure to high-quality, thought-provoking, culturally relevant texts.

At the end of every course, each cohort’s experience culminates in a service project that is a direct result of their learning, and of benefit to their community in some way. The projects are conceived of and lead by each group of students, with the support of the Lit Youth Foundation and its partners. Through this 6 week process, students will begin to cultivate an identity, develop a vision for their lives, build camaraderie and bond over a shared experience, and learn how to lead. They will emerge at the end as so much more than stronger readers! Please contact us for more information about how you can sign up for the next cohort, at [email protected].

• All reading materials
• Writing journal
• Customized book mark
• Snacks
• Certificate of completion
• Long-term opportunities to stay connected to Lit Youth and other community partners
• Positive life-long memories and experiences

Interested?  Contact us for additional information and we will be happy to answer any question you may have. Otherwise, check back in January/February to sign up for the next book club cohort.