Telling Our Stories
As part of a media project, youth created a short documentary exploring the legacy of Fort Wayne’s historic East Central neighborhood, once a thriving hub of Black-owned businesses, churches, and community pride.
By conducting interviews, capturing visuals, and editing footage, they became stewards of local history and advocates for preservation.
Connecting to Our Roots
Youth participated in an immersive visit to the African-American Museum, where they studied the powerful legacies of local civil rights leaders and movements. These stories sparked important conversations about justice, identity, and resilience.
Cultral Legacy & Identity
Honoring the Past to Build the Future
At the heart of our youth development work is a deep commitment to cultural education and historical awareness. We believe that when young people understand where they come from, they are empowered to shape where they’re going.
Through our Cultural Legacy & Identity initiatives, youth explore the richness of African-American history—both locally and nationally—while expressing their own growing voices.
Celebrating Through Music
In our Strings & Keys music program, participants learned and performed the Black National Anthem, gaining a deeper appreciation for its cultural and historical significance. Through music, they found a powerful way to honor the past while expressing hope for the future.
