In the early 1950's, a special program was initiated for outstanding male high school students. The purpose of the program is to encourage future minority leaders to become more aware of the responsibility to assume roles of leadership within/for the minority community. The program has the following phases:
1. Semi-Monthly Classes or Meetings
Classes are held evenings during the school year in African and Afro-American History
and other topics of interest to present day minority students.
The classes are an attempt to make the student more aware of what is happening on the minority scene today as well as in the past. The object of each class is to present information that will enable the student to develop serf-knowledge and self-pride.
2. Weekend Trips
The members live together one weekend every two (2) months at some convenient
retreat.
During that time they have an opportunity to discuss among themselves such topics as minorities in America today, the need for leadership in the community of third world people, self-awareness, etc. All of the different techniques of group dynamics are employed at these sessions.
3. Parent Meetings
The parents, along with their sons, meet on a regular basis during the year in
order to remain aware of the activities and progress of the group. These meetings also
give them the opportunity to bridge the "gap" that at times exists between
themselves and their sons.
4. Cultural Trips
Trips to events that interest minority students. These trips to the theater and
other places are part of the cultural development of the members of the program.
5. College Visits
In order to make the students aware of the opportunities offered to them by different colleges, there are trips to colleges. This gives the members of the program an opportunity to think ahead concerning college and future.