JCSU Co-sponsors Summer Literacy Camp

Johnson C. Smith University co-sponsored the 4th Annual Carolina Children's Defense Fund (CDF) Freedom Schools® Jubilee and Day of Social Action on Friday, July 10, 2009, in the Jack S. Brayboy Gymnasium. The Jubilee officially kicked off the free, summer literacy program, Freedom Schools, which encourages children grades K-8 to develop a lifelong love of reading.

When speaking with Nguynh H., third grader, First Presbyterian Freedom School, she stated, "I have had a lot of fun learning about different people and places in the stories we read." Savannah McBee, seventh grader, Rise & Shine Freedom School, said "I have enjoyed all the activities and learning about teamwork and African-American history." Tami Forte Moss, Executive Director of Rise & Shine added, "The integrated reading curriculum that CDF Freedom Schools use makes an incredible impact on the scholars: it takes ordinary people that look like them who make extraordinary differences in themselves, community, and beyond."

The motivational and highly energetic pep rally, Harambee, which means "all for one" in Swahili, included social action chants, dancing, cheering and singing from the 13 sites represented. Radio personalities Janine Davis and Tone-X of WPEG emceed with a special guest appearance by Rufus, Charlotte Bobcats mascot. Tonia Bendickson, WBTV news anchor, and Allen Davis, Servant Leader Intern with Billingsville Elementary, hosted the second part of the program. With 968 scholars in attendance, Dr. Ronald L. Carter, President of Johnson C. Smith, spoke on the importance of literacy and social action. He encouraged the scholars never to be afraid to dream. Dr. Carter emphasized that they should embrace reading so that they too could make a difference--even at a young age.

Community leaders, such as Mayor Pro Tem Susan Burgess and Commissioner Vilma Leake, also were on hand. W.H.O. Inc. (Women Helping Others Foundation) presented Seigle Avenue Partners with a check for $5,000. During this portion of the program, various scholars read letters they had written to government officials to bring awareness of the many uninsured children in the United States.

"In our continuing efforts to engage with the community, we welcome the opportunity to co-sponsor the 4th Annual Carolina CDF Freedom Schools® Jubilee as it addresses a vital need to provide a summer school enrichment program for our children," stated Dr. Carter. "JCSU is committed to guiding young minds and ensuring success on their academic journeys."

The celebration concluded with an advocacy demonstration. Scholars marched with school banners on the track of JCSU's Irwin Belk Complex to represent and raise awareness of the nearly nine million uninsured children and pregnant women in America. Sir Purr, Carolina Panthers mascot, also marched and interacted with the children.

"Seigle Avenue Partners is so pleased to have Johnson C. Smith University as a partner to provide a Children's Defense Fund Freedom Schools® program. We have been looking for expansion opportunities for CDF Freedom Schools, and as an anchor in the Northwest Corridor, JCSU is an ideal partner to take the lead in this community service, " said Mary Nell McPherson, Executive Director, Seigle Avenue Partners. " Addressing the issue of summer learning loss for low-income children, while providing hands-on service learning opportunities for JCSU students is a win-win for our community. "

Seigle Avenue Partners, Bank of America and Duke Energy also co-sponsored the Jubilee. This marks the fourth year that the event has been celebrated.

To view more photos,  please click the link below: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jcsuprdept/sets/72157621239914432/show/