Literacy for Freedom

 Literacy for Freedom

We are creating empowering and supportive communities for Black boys in Minnesota, where they feel confident in achieving all their hopes and dreams.

Our Mission

Literacy for Freedom is an out-of-school mentorship program dedicated to empowering young Black boys in grades 5-12.   Through literacy development, Black identity modeling, and academic support, we strive to break barriers, foster confidence,   and pave the way for their greatness.

Our three goals:

1. Improve literacy outcomes
2. Establish Black identity 
3. Boost high school graduation rates

Why This Work Matters

Young Black boys face unique challenges, both nationally and in Minnesota:

• Nationally, only 47% of Black boys graduate high school in four years, compared to 78% for White males.
• In Minnesota, just 32% of Black boys test proficiently in reading, compared to 64% of White males.

We believe in turning these statistics around by creating spaces where young Black boys feel seen, supported, and inspired to succeed.

Our Impact

Since our founding in 2020, Literacy for Freedom has made strides toward creating transformational change for Black boys in Minnesota:

• Directly impacted the lives of over 50 young men from more than five school districts (Robbinsdale, Hopkins, Osseo, Wayzata, Minneapolis) across the metro area
• Provided resources to encourage academic achievement, identity exploration, and personal growth
• Produced a documentary that was officially selected for the Duluth Film Festival, Twin Cities Film Festival, and Frozen River Film Festival in both 2023 and 2024

  
  

Your support will directly help us:

• Expand Mentorship Programs: Allow me to dedicate myself full-time to growing and sustaining Literacy for Freedom.
• Secure a Dedicated Space: Cover the cost of renting a space where scholars can gather, learn, and feel supported.
• Provide Essentials for Scholars:
  • Food and snacks for mentorship sessions.
  • School supplies to support academic success.
• Cover Operating Expenses: Ensure we have the resources needed to effectively manage and grow the program.

See Our Work in Action

We’ve captured the powerful stories of our boys and their mentors in a heartfelt documentary.

Join Us in Changing Lives

At this critical moment in history, young Black boys need our support more than ever. Too many face the challenges of violence, systemic inequities, and a lack of role models. 

Together, we can create brighter futures where Black boys achieve greatness.

In Solidarity,

Keenan Jones

Founder, Literacy for Freedom

https://literacyforfreedom.org/