http://communityrule.orgThe Community R.U.L.E. (reading, understanding, learning, and education) Literacy Enhancement Programs, is a very diverse yet simple program aimed at eradicating illiteracy. The organization started mentoring and training youth at John Marshall High School (JMCHS) in the fall of 2006, when inspirational but controversial principal, Jeffery White was at the helm. While White had a solid vision on how to handle the community that he served, the powers that be at IPS ( Indianapolis Public School) needed to go in a different direction.
After White moved on to the GEO Foundation, and is now making his mark as New School Development coordinator, The Community R.U.L.E. started developing programs based on the needs of the people who live in the area and have children or grandchildren at JMCHS.
The first two programs implemented were directed at young men and women 12 – 17 years of age. The importance of these youth opening up allowed the trained and educated directors to direct the problems that are hindering and distracting these teenagers” learning skills.
It’s on and Girl Talk were two engines designed to enhance basic reading, cognitive thought, and life application principles. The seven week course included professionals from the community that the kids from the same demographic background could identify and relate to.
Several sponsors such as AnyTyme Photo, Aristocrat Limousine, Ramey and Hailey Attorney’s at Law, and The Neff Foundation, just to name a few provided the many resources needed to enhance the fruits of their success. After completion of the course, The two groups came together for a formal dress up lunch at a fine downtown dining establishment, a limousine ride, a 5×8 color photo, and many other surprises.
That concept of training for a reward has spawned other programs that utilize, “the Carrot” technique, to motivate and educate. The Financial Literacy program that will partner with C.A.F.E. (Community Alliance of the Far Eastside), will teach basic checking and saving techniques while C.A.F.E. will instruct ex offenders’ self development and realistic career paths.
Although there are many theories and ideas on how to contribute to society and many of it’s problems, the only way to know is to provide a solution and work out the kinks as you go. The truth of the matter is there are more people in need then ever before, and every type of contribution helps. As always, The community rules!
