Black Youth Empowerment in Schools

We’re creating safe spaces where young Black students can learn, grow, and thrive.

Education should be a place of empowerment, but for many Black youth, challenges such as community violence, racial trauma, and systemic barriers can create barriers to success.

Lines for Life’s Equity Team is working alongside schools to provide a culturally specific curriculum that fosters empowerment, connection, and resilience. Through culturally specific programming, we are partnering with two Portland elementary schools to support Black students, staff, and families in building resilience, confidence, and community.

And it’s working! Reading scores among participants have increased 97%. Counselors and teachers are reporting more respect from students toward their female teachers.

Bringing Mental Health & Cultural Empowerment to Schools

Through monthly school-based lessons, our team supports students in navigating identity, mental wellness, and self-empowerment in a way that traditional school programs often overlook.

Our lessons create a trusted, community-centered space where students can:

• Build self-confidence and pride by learning about Black history and influential figures.
• Develop emotional resilience through stress management, trauma education, and decision-making strategies.
• Practice positive affirmations and understand the importance of self-worth.
• Learn the power of respect and how to apply it in the classroom and beyond.

By offering one-on-one support, encouraging peer connections, and emphasizing accountability, we help students navigate the cultural impacts of being a young Black male in today’s society.

A Unique, Culturally Responsive Approach

Unlike traditional school curricula, our program is designed for and with Black students—using culturally specific strategies to foster engagement and trust.

• Community-centered lessons that foster trust and open dialogue.
• Confidential spaces where students feel safe to share.
• Family involvement to reinforce lessons at home.

Through partnership with the Center for Black Student Excellence (CBSE), we ensure that our work aligns with broader efforts to uplift and empower Black students.

This program is more than just a curriculum—it’s a commitment to uplifting Black youth and ensuring they have the tools to succeed.
Together, we’re strengthening schools, empowering students, and ensuring Black youth have the support they need to thrive.

Together, we’re strengthening schools, empowering students, and ensuring Black youth have the support they need to thrive.