Multi-generational Programming for Peoplestown Community

After a successful summer of Freedom School, we’re excited to offer fall programs to Emmaus House community members of all ages. We will continue to support our Freedom School scholars and other elementary school students at the Barack and Michelle Obama Academy (BAMO) with in-school tutoring. We learned this summer that many students are struggling with basic reading skills after being at home during the pandemic. Emmaus House volunteers will give them extra academic help at BAMO in the Supports for Success program.

Our afterschool program for middle and high school students, Youth on the Move (YOTM), met online last year because of Covid-19 restrictions. This year, YOTM will resume in-person at Emmaus House, and in addition to homework help, we will have classes in art, pottery, woodturning, boxing, college preparation, and dance. Justin Rothrauff, the Director of Community Engagement for Impactful Brush in Atlanta, will teach art classes. He’s a former art teacher for schools in Philadelphia and Chile and a favorite teacher of our Freedom School scholars!

Emmaus House will provide art instruction to the neighborhood “555” senior citizens group this fall. The “555” men and women meet at Four Corners Park for meals, devotions, programming, and lively conversations. We look forward to many rewarding and creative experiences together! If you would like to volunteer to help with Supports for Students or Youth on the Move or assist with Arts for Seniors, please contact Ann Fowler at annfowler@emmaushouse.org or 404-525-5948.

Justin Rothrauff and YOTM manager Rakia Reeves, help Freedom School children in art class last summer.

“555” seniors talk to Freedom School children about their experiences during the National Day of Social Action in July.