R.O.O.T.S. - Realizing Our Opportunities Through Service
Elsie Soars Foundation recognizes the pressing issues facing young African-American boys in the North and South Carolina region. Despite socio-political progress, significant challenges persist which continue to hinder many young African-American boys from thriving to achieve their full potential.
The Concern
We are losing many of our young black boys and men to violence and criminal activity. Their disinterest in school and after-school activities (sports and the arts) is growing, creating a severe deficit of highly functional and productive members of society. Scholastic scores are on the decline, and many students are dropping out of school entirely; some before they reach high school. We arrive at this point due to many contributing factors.
The Objective
To recruit young boys between the ages of 6 – 10 years old for a mentorship program designed to plant seeds of confidence; introduce self-respect and discipline; promote education and recreation; develop respect for their community; and grow their curiosity through a host of engagement and programming opportunities.
Mentorship
Will participate in “huddle time” – programming intended to teach, mentor, and encourage them to lead discussion and activities.
Background checks will be required for each mentor to enter the Chester Park Elementary School complex.
Mentors will govern themselves by the 4 pillars of mentorship: Trust, Respect, Expectations, and Communication
Mentors will be thoughtfully selected, then invited to join our group.
Activities
-Huddle time”- workshops & discussions, and mentoring
-Tutoring
-Recreation & sports training
-Music lessons (guitar, piano, drums, etc.)
-Community service projects
-Field Trips/Educational excursions (colleges, museums, events, hiking)
-Public speaking training
-Swimming pools
Parental Expectations
This is not a babysitting program; The program is intended to establish a healthy “village” for our boys to grow and become successful individuals
Parents will be asked to support our programming by reinforcing what we teach, implement healthy habits, and be consistent in their application of disciplinary measures
Parents will be asked to volunteer and serve when necessary to support programming
Parents will share information and/or allow access to the student’s teachers to assure they are behaving and performing in the classroom.
Our boys will learn and recite an affirmation intended to remind them of their value to the community and the world.