national trends and services
The vision of the National Trends and Services facet is to eliminate disparities by reducing barriers to essential services through advocacy, education, and direct service. National Trends and Services is tasked with addressing inequities right here in our community and across the United States. We empower our members to effectively uplift the communities we serve by addressing critical issues such as social justice, voting rights, and financial literacy. By providing the tools and resources necessary for self-sufficiency, we strive to create a more equitable future for all.
summer reading initiative
The Ann Arbor (MI) Chapter is committed to closing the literacy gap and preventing “summer slide" among our youth. Our Summer Reading Program provides enriching literacy opportunities for students in grades 1 through 3, ensuring they remain engaged and maintain reading proficiency during the summer months.
Program Goals include:
Maintain proficiency by keeping students engaged in active reading to prevent learning loss.
Improve literacy by helping students master at least 15 new vocabulary words.
Cultural representation by exposing students to at least five developmentally appropriate books that provide a positive reflection of the African American experience. We collaborate with local partners to curate diverse and engaging reading lists, including: Ann Arbor District Library & Ypsilanti District Library, Peace Neighborhood Center, Parkridge Community Center, and Hikone Community Center. Each summer, members visit these community centers weekly to read with students and foster a love for storytelling. Our program reaches 80–100 students annually.
To celebrate their hard work, students who complete the reading list receive a certificate of completion and a free book of their choice from our partner libraries. Additionally, the Ann Arbor (MI) Chapter donates a collection of books to the community center with the highest program completion rate.