OUR VISION IS FOR URBAN YOUTH TO BECOME THE BENCHMARK FOR PERSONAL AND CULTURAL EXCELLENCE IN BIRMINGHAM, AL AND BEYOND!



Why LegacyWorks?






The Problem

Out of all of the cities in America with a population over 100,000, Birmingham, AL, has the second highest percentage of single parents (72%), mostly single mothers. Research shows that children raised by single mothers are approximately 4 times as likely to be poor and 40% less likely to finish high school.


The Solution

LegacyWorks addresses this problem by providing enrichment and interventions that help urban youth avoid contact with the criminal justice system and enter the middle class or higher. Our vision is for urban youth to be the benchmark for personal and cultural excellence in Birmingham, AL, and beyond.





We achieve our vision in three ways:





1. Paid Apprenticeship Program





One Saturday per month, we meet with youth between 10 and 21 years old to facilitate learning in trades, business, and life skills proven to help black males enter the middle class. Many of these learning opportunities double as paid apprenticeships.



2. Education and Advocacy





We develop written materials, facilitate reading initiatives, and utilize diagnostic assessments to improve literacy and social--emotional skills. We also advocate for policies that produce desired outcomes in urban communities.



3. Proximity and Creativity





We work with urban youth to produce culturally relevant music, videos, and other audiovisual content that inspires them to become their best selves.