Explanation
Background
In 2014, the White House, under President Barack Obama, launched the My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) initiative to address persistent opportunity gaps faced by boys and young men of color and ensure that all young people can reach their full potential. Through this initiative, the Administration called on cities, businesses, and foundations to take important steps to connect young people to mentoring, support networks, and help them gain the skills they need to find a good job or go to college and work their way into the middle class. The milestones associated with the My Brother’s Keeper initiative include having young people enter school ready to learn, reading at grade level by third grade, graduating from high school ready for college, completing post-secondary education or training, successfully entering the workforce, and providing a second chance to those with past criminal offenses. In responding to the call to action, the Department of Neighborhoods established the My Brother’s Keeper Village to be the hub of all work throughout the City of Columbus.
The COVID-19 pandemic is causing unforeseen challenges related to virtual learning. My Brother’s Keeper partnerships with the non-profit agencies funded as part of this legislation will launch an engaging and interactive online and in-person Back to School Campaign called “BOOST (Building Optimism & Opportunities for a Successful Transition) Campaign.” This campaign is intended to serve as a way to provide Central Ohio young male students of color with academic support, resources and nourishment during the shift to online learning.
This legislation authorizes the Director of the Department of Neighborhoods to enter into grant agreements with the African American Male Wellness Walk, Community for New Directions, Community Refugee, and Immigrant Services, The Columbus Urban League, IMPACT Community Action and Legacy U in an amount up to $392,000.00 to add needed academic support services...
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