We join the nation in recognizing Juneteenth. We honor African Americans’ resilience, strength, and triumphs in the pursuit of freedom and equality. This historic day, honoring the end of slavery with the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation of 1865, reminds us of the ongoing journey toward justice and the importance of community solidarity. At Breakthrough Miami, we proudly embody these values through our dedication to empowering traditionally marginalized youth and fostering a commitment to service.
In our continuous efforts to expand our impact, we piloted an initiative last year to deepen our connections within the local community and enhance the onboarding experience for our summer Teaching Fellows. This initiative now is a permanent component of our annual programming, reinforcing our dedication to community engagement and service.
Our Teaching Fellows led various service projects in collaboration with our recruiting schools and community-based partners. These projects offered Fellows the invaluable opportunity to engage directly with the communities where our Scholars live and the schools they attend. From campus beautification, library organization, and classroom updates to planting gardens and painting spaces, these strategic service efforts were diverse and impactful.
Through these community-based service programs, Breakthrough Miami empowers Teaching Fellows with a deeper understanding of community dynamics and fosters a lifelong spirit of service. This initiative directly supports high-needs schools and community centers, strengthening community bonds and contributing to the betterment of South Florida’s public schools and communities.
As we reflect on the significance of Juneteenth, we are reminded of the power of collective action and community engagement. We are grateful for the opportunity to work collaboratively with our public school partners, ensuring a bright and equitable future for our community’s youth.
Service Projects included:
Riverside Elementary: Teaching Fellows refreshed furniture and organized the books in the school’s media center at this historic site, one of the first desegregated elementary schools in South Florida. View the service project here.
Kenwood K-8 Center: Teaching Fellows assisted in school beautification efforts, adding new flora to the school’s entrance, leveling soil, and relocating bricks around the nearly century-old school. These efforts helped create a more welcoming space for students and the Kenwood community. View the service project here.
Somerset Academy South Homestead: Teaching Fellows led various beautification and restoration projects, including creating new sitting and reading nooks, landscaping, and constructing and painting benches. View the service project here.
Gertrude Edelman / Sabal Palm Elementary: Teaching Fellows collected and organized the curriculum textbooks in the school’s media center. View the service project here.
Earlington Heights Elementary: Teaching Fellows created gardens in the main courtyard, where students often congregate, celebrate, and conduct activities during the school year. Students in the school’s STEM program will maintain these gardens during the year. View the service project here.