Rites of Passage Programs
These mentoring programs help young people develop into responsible, caring adults and outstanding citizens. Based on the seven principles of Kwanzaa — Unity, Self-Determination, Collective Work, Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose and Faith — participants learn to navigate everyday challenges while building mental strength, social relationships and community consciousness.
2026 Schedule
Saturdays, Sept. 12-Dec. 12 (No workshop Nov. 28)
This annual program is offered to boys and girls ages 10-16. This mentoring program helps youth cope with the struggles they face in everyday life — school, home and community. These mentoring programs help young people develop into responsible, caring adults and outstanding citizens. Based on the seven principles of Kwanzaa — Unity, Self-Determination, Collective Work, Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose and Faith — participants learn to navigate everyday challenges while building mental strength, social relationships and community consciousness.
Fee: $42 | Limited enrollment | Application and parent orientation required.

Sisters In Society Taking Action (S.I.S.T.A.) | Girls Rites of Passage
Saturdays, 3:30-5:30 p.m. | September–December
Registration: $42 | Limited enrollment | Application and parent orientation required.
The design of the Rites of Passage intensive workshops provides necessary tools and skill sets to help our daughters become responsible young women.
Some of the workshop topics include: • Education/Careers • Puberty • Self-Respect • Spirituality • Attitude • Media • Cultural Awareness • Healthy Relationships

Sankofa | Boys Rites of Passage
Sankofa teaches that we must look to the past to understand the present and build a better future.
Saturdays, 1-3 p.m. | September–December
Registration: $42 | Limited enrollment | Application and parent orientation required.
A Rites of Passage in African-American communities is a sacred ceremony that marks the transition of an individual’s path. “These rites are critical to individual and community development, and it should not be taken for granted that youth automatically develop into responsible, community-oriented adults.” ~ David Blumenkrantz. This journey towards manhood uses the philosophy and principles of Kwanzaa.
Some of the workshop topics include: • Attitude • Conflict Resolution • Cultural Awareness • Decision Making • Grooming • Hygiene • Image Portrayal • Personal Safety