Freedom Schools boosts student motivation to read, generates more positive attitudes toward learning, increases self-esteem and connects the needs of children and families to the resources of their communities. The instructional reading level of the children tested in our 2019 summer program demonstrated a 12 month increase on average. Most of the children (95.8%) maintained or gained in instructional reading level and did not experience summer learning loss.

The primary focus of the program is to help students complete homework, school projects and read at least 20 minutes a day which helps them reach their full academic potential. The children are picked up by van from their school or the closest bus stop and dropped off at the program. Students are met by program staff and are served a light meal before getting started on homework. We are focused on re-activation of this program with funds raised.

The Sisters of Imani Girl’s Rites of Passage Program is a program that seeks to strengthen and enhance the spiritual, academic, cultural, and physical development of all girls, focusing on African American culture. We are focused on re-activation of this program with funds raised.

The Harambee Experience is a Rites of Passage program for school aged boys in our community. Harambee is an African/Swahili word that means, “let’s pull together.” The objective of the program is to teach the boys skills to help them navigate through the issues they face on their journey to responsible manhood. The program is centered on the Principles of Kwanzaa, and Peter Spencer’s principles for building community. These principles will provide a foundation for the activities of enrichment and life skill development. We are focused on the re-activation of this program with funds raised.

The Peter Spencer Heritage Hallway Museum is a permanent exhibit housed in the Historic Mother African Union First Colored Methodist Protestant (MAUFCMP) Church.  It consists of a historical gallery, walking tour, and resource center conveying the truth about the Black Experience, including our African roots, history, struggles, and triumphs as a people of faith. The exhibit depicts the story of African Americans and highlights the integral role of the Rev. Peter Spencer, MAUFCMP Church, and the August Quarterly played in religious freedom and the social development of Delaware and the nation. The purpose of the Peter Spencer Heritage Hallway is to serve as a visual history and walking tour, offering visitors a glimpse into the African roots of Wilmington’s Mother African Union Church community which is over 210 years old.