Programming Model

As a group of scholars from diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise, we aim to develop and maintain a community-driven plan to support youth and families in the Richmond area.

The environments in which we live and learn influence access to resources, opportunity as well as how we develop over time. Oppressive systems and inhibiting environments often encountered by people historically marginalized in our society, contribute to inequities in experience and social and learning outcomes. Yet, Black and Latine youth and families have community cultural wealth that can support healthy development and success.

The Center model aims to empower youth and families by co-creating promoting environments (at home, school, work, and in our local community) through the development of community connections, critical consciousness, and strategies that address the interconnected nature of individual/family well-being, educational attainment, and social and economic mobility.