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Join us for the
Pathways to Freedom 2007 Event.

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Programs index.

Pathways to Freedom

Theme: Where Have We Been? Where Are We Going?

National
A freedom ride of historical and educational research lasting more than thirty days, traveling through many U.S. states and Canada mainly by bus, tracing the underground railroad into the civil rights movement and beyond. These students 14-17 years of age join the Pathways to Freedom Regional Program in a leadership role and share their learning.

Quantum Leap to Success (QLS)
A freedom ride of historical and educational research lasting more than 15 days, traveling primarily through Michigan cities and Canada mainly by bus, tracing the underground railroad into the civil rights movement and beyond. Innovations and adaptations in assignments are made to support youth who benefit from a more structured environment.

Regional
A freedom ride of historical and educational research lasting more than 12 days, traveling primarily through Michigan cities and Canada mainly by bus, tracing the underground railroad into the civil rights movement and beyond.

Local Chapter
Year-round educational activities focused on preparation for freedom ride segments by developing and improving life and academic skills.

International
Special initiatives engage national alumni, and sixteen to seventeen year olds in educational and historical research on a freedom journey to an international community outside the United States.

Pathways to Prevention
Health rules and standards to prevent abuse of legal and illegal substances are presented to youth with a no nonsense approach. Sports and proper nutrition are encouraged through this licensed program.

Pathways to Economic Freedom
Students join and manage a bank 'First Pathways to Freedom Bank' affiliated with First Independence National Bank. The curriculum covers budget management, financial planning including savings, investment, goal setting, consumer power, responsibility for philanthropy, creating wealth and entrepreneurship.

Pathways to Peace
Groups of students from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds are brought together to engage in dialogue and training in peacekeeping strategies. Art music, song, dance, poetry, journalism, drama, photography and storytelling and other creative expressions are mechanisms for exploring perspectives, exchanging ideas and drafting solutions.

Rosa L. Parks Learning Center
Youth mentor senior citizens in basic computer technology, typically in a community living environment. Program outcomes expose students to the common sense of elders and enhance academic skills. Seniors benefit from the physical and mental stimulation and the opportunity for personal growth.

Adisa Foluke Training Center
Trainers, specialists, Interns, Presenters and Facilitators are orientated and/or trained the Rosa and Raymond Parks Institute 'Quiet Strength' philosophy of pride, dignity and courage. Named in honor of Adisa Foluke the program strives to capture the energy excitement and commitment he exhibited in his teaching and leadership of the Pathways to Freedom Program.

Vernon Jarrett Oral History Program
Youth are taught in the Vernon Jarrett style of preparedness, respect and enthusiasm. Students conduct interviews to capture the historical perspectives of elders and hear stories filled with the wisdom of experience.

The Speakers Bureau
The speaker's bureau is a group of both youth and adults who are selected to represent the institute at meetings and programs. All participants in every program are required to take on a public speaking assignment. They are expected to communicate both verbally and in writing by reporting to their community upon return from any journey.

Commemoration of Rosa Parks' Arrest
Each year from December 1st thru 5th the institute plans n innovative program to commemorate the anniversary of Mrs. Parks arrest and the beginning of the Montgomery Bus Boycott. This activity is used to conduct community education and increase civil right awareness, activism and advocacy in the "Quiet Strength" spirit of Mrs. Rosa Parks.