Building the Next Generation of Leaders in East St. Louis
A structured, values-driven program designed to develop disciplined, educated, and community-focused young men and women.
East St. Louis Rites of Passage Program
Cultural & Historical Mastery
Study African and African-American history; complete assessments and a public project.
Self-Defense & Personal Protection
Training in awareness, de-escalation, and physical defense.
Military Discipline & Physical Fitness
Structured drills, fitness benchmarks, and discipline tracking.
Nutrition & Health Standards
Education on diet, disease prevention, and wellness tracking.
Financial Literacy & Economic Power
Budgeting, credit, investing, and entrepreneurship training.
Etiquette, Character & Leadership
Communication, leadership roles, and formal presentations.
Community Service Commitment
4 hours per week volunteering in East St. Louis.
Apprenticeship & Skill Development
Final 2 years: hands-on training in chosen discipline.
Post-Graduation Civic Duty
2-year service via Urban CommUniversity or HBCU partnerships.
Black Pledge of Allegiance
Final recitation demonstrating unity, discipline, and commitment.
Our Commitment to Every Child
We are committed to guiding every young person toward excellence—academically, physically, and morally. Our mission is to ensure that no child is left behind as we prepare the next generation of scientists, engineers, teachers, athletes, entrepreneurs, farmers, and leaders.
DISCIPLINE & STRUCTURE
Discipline Builds Direction
Street Lights Curfew
One hour of unsupervised time before sunset.
Once street lights come on — all youth must be home.
1 Hour Unsupervised Time
Tracked Devices for Safety
Corporal Punishment Enforced
Built for Greatness
Respect is a foundational principle of the program. Every participant is required to demonstrate discipline through language and behavior, including:
These values reinforce character, accountability, and respect for others—skills that extend far beyond the program.
Know Your Roots.
Define Your Future.
As part of the Rites of Passage Program, all youth are required to participate in Ancestry.com to explore and understand their family history.