Empowering Children to Believe in Their Unlimited Abilities

Did you know that children in our community from low-income households lose two to three months of literacy skills when they don’t have access to high-quality summer learning programs?

That’s why United Way invests in summer learning initiatives that combine fun and learning, so our children continue to thrive even when school’s out.

In-person summer learning returned in 2021, and 110 children were able to attend the James Lawson Freedom School, established and led by Resurrected Community Development Corporation and held in the Christ Lutheran Church in Allentown.

Mornings at Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools are energizing and inspiring. After a nutritious breakfast, the day starts with Harambee!, a time for children and staff to share, sing and celebrate themselves and each other. “Harambee,” which means “let’s pull together” in Swahili, puts students in a positive mindset for their day of reading instruction, thoughtful discussions and engaging learning activities.

Traditionally serving underrepresented communities, Freedom Schools empower children and young adults to excel and believe in their ability to make a difference in themselves and in their families, schools, communities, country and world.

“The Freedom Schools Movement is really about helping our children fall in love with reading, fall in love with learning, but most importantly, fall in love with themselves,” said Dr. Alisha Tatem, Project Director at James Lawson Freedom School.  

Freedom Schools engage young adults, parents, community leaders, and community-based organizations to create supportive and nurturing environments where every child can thrive.

There are not enough summer learning opportunities here in the region that serve our students of color and just $10 a week helps a child keep learning over the summer and start school on track.

With one easy donation, you support hundreds of United Way nonprofit partner organizations working together to ensure that all kids – no matter where they live – are ready to learn and successful in school so that they graduate prepared for life, college and career.