Two churches located on the South Side are bringing honor to Chicago. Salem and Progressive Baptist churches initiated a trial program to enhance the reading abilities of young Black boys, known as Black Boy Literacy. Due to the program’s tremendous success last summer, the churches decided to reintroduce the reading camp this year to prepare Black boys for the upcoming school year.
Initially a pilot program, it has become a template for other Black churches nationwide. The objective is to elevate the literacy rates among young Black boys, representing a significant investment that the churches affirm yields positive results.
This six-week summer camp is the brainchild of Pastor Charlie Dates, who is the senior pastor of both Progressive and Salem Baptist churches.
His late mother, Jessie Mae, was a CPS teacher for 42 years and a literacy specialist. Pastor Dates is continuing his mother’s legacy.
“He states that numerous boys have not just reached the same level as their peers, but in certain instances, have surpassed the expected reading level. The boys are eager to display their report cards. Both churches have collected tens of thousands of dollars for this initiative.”
Educators are employed at a full summer salary, and the churches are funding the costs for meals, excursions, and technology. This represents a significant commitment to these boys.
If you’d like to support the movement-or enroll your child in an upcoming camp, visit www.blackboylit.com.
