The Amy Jacques Garvey Coalition organises Saturday classes for the children Jacques Road and surrounding communities ages 7-16 at the Amy Jacques Garvey Community Centre with the main goal of increasing literacy.

These children receive help in the academic areas they’ve asked for, namely mathematics, general science, and English language with a strong emphasis on written and spoken communication. The coalition also aims to increase conflict-resolution skills and self-love. This is done by teaching meditation and other self-care tools. 

This project started on March 11, 2023. Since then, our educators have been working with students in the community centre every Saturday. We conduct literacy assessments at regular intervals as well as activities that include the parents.

According to our first literacy assessment, most children in the community are reading well below their grade level. In order for these children to catch up, they need tutoring that can support their academic lives in the public school system.

We are also developing a community library to introduce Jacques Road to the written works of Amy Jacques Garvey and other pro-Black authors. It is our hope to elevate their sense of self-importance, belonging, and affinity for reading. 

Our executive body is made up of educators, musicians, artists, as well as individuals who live on Jacques Road and surrounding communities who want to make a difference. 

We need help covering expenses associated with keeping this Saturday School running. This includes stationary supplies, lunch and snacks, and reimbursement for the educators and coalition members who dedicate their time to this project.