Boys, Books, and Brotherhood (BBB) began in 2017 as a result of the United Way of Greater Atlanta’s Build-A-Library Program. We partner with the Eta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha to bring in male adult mentors from the community to engage with our students and inspire them with colloquial discussions about culturally relevant books and literary works.
The Power of Story
The program has been a terrific success. It has introduced our students to books that speak to their experience, and exposed them to male role models who can vouch for the importance of reading and writing. These are successful men who have empowered themselves through literacy, and their presence is a powerful example for our students.
BBB had to pause because of the pandemic, but we’re happy to announce that it has resumed and is as popular as ever.
Currently, our students are reading The Autobiography of Malcolm X, co-written by Alex Haley, and it’s a perfect example of the transformative power that literacy has to shape both our lives and our culture.
Inspiring Boys and Girls
Our strong relationship with Alpha Phi Alpha has provided ample volunteers for this particular program. However, next fall we plan to launch a girls’ version called Lit Chicks and are currently seeking volunteers to help inspire our female students. If you’re interested in being an RE “Chiclit,” please email Maria Armstrong at maria@raisingexpectations.org.