The Power of Community: A Look Inside the Village of Wisdom
The Village of Wisdom is a community-led organization that provides educational resources and support for Black families. Founded in Durham, North Carolina in 2016 by Dr. William A. Darity Jr. and Kirsten Mullen, the Village of Wisdom aims to empower Black families to advocate for their children’s education while providing them with the tools and resources to succeed.
Introduction
The Village of Wisdom is not just an organization; it’s a movement that emphasizes the power of community. In this article, we will delve deeper into the Village of Wisdom’s vision, mission, and impact on the Black community. We’ll explore the factors that prompted its creation, the services they offer, and the difference it has made in the lives of Black families.
History of the Village of Wisdom
Before we look at what the organization does, let’s briefly discuss why it was created. Dr. Darity, a renowned economist, and his wife, Kirsten Mullen, a folklorist, noticed that Black children’s success rates were much lower than those of their white peers. They concluded that the problem was a lack of culturally relevant education resources. They founded the Village of Wisdom as a solution to this problem.
The Village of Wisdom’s Mission
The Village of Wisdom’s primary mission is to empower Black families to become advocates for their children’s education. To achieve this goal, Village of Wisdom creates and disseminates culturally relevant and empowering content that families can use to educate their children. The organization offers workshops, books, podcasts, and online resources that parents can use to support their children’s learning.
The Services the Village of Wisdom Offers
The Village of Wisdom’s services are not limited to creating and distributing educational resources. They also provide hands-on support through their Family Advocacy Program. This program pairs Black families with mentors who have experience navigating the education system. The mentors provide guidance and support to families, helping them develop the skills and knowledge necessary to advocate for their children.
Impact of the Village of Wisdom
The Village of Wisdom’s impact is significant and far-reaching. Black families who have participated in the program have seen an increase in their children’s academic performance and self-esteem. These families are more likely to be engaged in their children’s education and assertive in advocating for their needs. The Village of Wisdom is an inspiration not just to Black families but to all communities that value education, equity, and community building.
Conclusion
The Village of Wisdom is a shining example of the power of community. By empowering Black families to advocate for their children, the organization is helping address systemic inequalities in education. The Village of Wisdom provides a roadmap for how collective action and community empowerment can create change. Through its culturally relevant and empowering resources, the Village of Wisdom is transforming the educational landscape for Black families.
