Page 4 - BRAAF Unity Day - Booklet

AFRICENTRIC YOUTH & FAMILY RITES OF

PASSAGE PROGRAM (ROP)

Emphasizing young boys interacting with other young boys to develop positive

life styles, and positive solutions to life problems by recognizing their
strengths, their talents and abilities is the core concept of the Africentric Youth

& Family Rites of Passage Program. This highly therapeutic culture specific

after-school intervention seeks to build character in young African-American
boys. The concept of building character we feel, will ultimately translate into

better school performance, more respectful behaviors and stronger family and
community assets.

Under the guidance of well-trained and committed staff, experts from the

community and a council of Community Elders who have a genuine
commitment to their passage into manhood, young boys will internalize the

Afro-centric principles by which youth and their families can become
constructive contributors to their families and community, through a positive

appreciation of themselves and their culture.

Who Qualifies . . .

African American males ages 11-15 years;

African American male youth and their parents/guardians who have
experienced racism, discrimination and violence;

African American male youth and their parents/guardians identified

through the criminal justice system, diversion programs, churches and
religious organizations, community-based programs and local schools;

and

Meet the minimum criteria as defined and set forth in the PEI Screening

Tool.