Our Work
Our focus regarding youth learning and engagement
Ujima
Our after-school program launched in the Fall of 2011 creating a space for middle school and high school students to learn, discuss, engage, and develop leadership skills both in school, and in the real world. Ujima is open to all students with a dedicated focus on providing sessions conducted through an afro-centric lens. We provide field trips to places like High Desert Museum, Mt Bachelor, and other partners organizations.
In School Advocacy
We are actively working with the Bend-La Pine & Redmond School districts to correct their policies regarding racism (both preventative and disciplinary actions), proper inclusion of historical events in regards to Black history, cultural appropriation, and staff training and awareness of what Black and Brown students experience in the schools.
Higher Education Promotion
We help students understand why they should enroll in college, how to successfully enroll, and how to secure financial aid. We are working with COCC, OSU-Cascades, and other vocational programs on this initiative.
Our focus regarding business development and vocations
Black Business Promotion
Each month at The Meetup (our monthly general meeting), we provide a space for Black professionals, managers, and business owners to be introduced to the community. We also feature these professionals on our resources page.
Financial Literacy
Through our partnership with Bend/Redmond Habitat for Humanity and NeighborImpact, we provide a very successful quarterly credit counseling and homeownership readiness program. We have plans to launch a program geared at middle and high school students, to prepare them for a smoother financial journey into adulthood.
Develop a Food Truck as a POC Business
(FUTURE initiative) This multi-purpose vehicle would be a source of revenue for the organization and valuable job training for young entrepreneurs.
Develop a Black Arts and Entertainment Studio for Adults and Youth
(FUTURE initiative) This hands-on facility would provide a fun and meaningful space to gather and learn about various occupations.
Vocational Training
(FUTURE initiative) Develop video series for youth that addresses both basic and advanced “technical” skills in a number of local occupational fields.
Our focus regarding new high-level initiatives that build and strengthen community
First & Foremost Podcast
Provide a voice for Black community members to hear and discuss living, working, and playing in Central Oregon from a Black perspective. This show provides guest spot opportunities for community members to discuss their experiences.
Welcoming Week
Develop and promote projects and activities including backpack giveaways (school supplies), multicultural block parties, etc.
District Attorney Partnership
Consistent communication with the District Attorney’s office focused on providing advocacy assistance to Black community members while navigating through the judicial system.
Programs That Amplify POC Culture
Develop programs and events that can be used for both networking and fundraising (example: The Meetup, Juneteenth, Ujima, etc) for Black and Brown community members.
Empowered
(Currently in Development) Our 1:1 mentorship program geared towards helping youth and young adults gather a firm foundation as they grow into adulthood; Including access to financial literacy, vocational programs, educational tutoring, advocacy, and much more.
And Then We Grow
As a result of our ability to learn, work and create, we are confident in our ability to grow. With support from the community, we will:
Develop The Father’s Group Membership Program
The forthcoming TFG membership program is currently in development with plans for a soft launch at the Juneteenth 2024 celebration!
Grow Our Organizational Capacity
Increasing paid staff and increasing our volunteer base.
Grow Awareness
Sponsor and hold events that raise community awareness of discrimination and provide proximity to the lived experiences of Black community members.
Grow Student Academic Success
Through Ujima, Empowered, and our other programs, we provide tutors, grade evaluation, goal setting, and support for our students, helping them achieve their educational goals.
The Father's Group | Growing Together
Office
412 SW 8th St Redmond, OR 97756
Tax ID
84-2691067
Business Hours
Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
Mailing Address
P.O. Box 5008
Bend, OR 97708
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