Cultural Heritage Program

“Know from whence you came. If you know whence you came, there are absolutely no limitations to where you can go.”
– James Baldwin

The mission of The Baton Foundation is to facilitate the transmission of fact-grounded information about African Diasporic culture and history with the purpose of strengthening Black boys and adolescents emotionally, culturally and intellectually.

Research shows that one’s success in life is based, in part, on the degree to which that person knows and respects his history and culture. The Educators’ Guide to the Australia-based Early Years Learning Framework states, “Culture is the fundamental building block of identity, and the development of a strong cultural identity is essential to children’s healthy sense of who they are and where they belong.”

The Baton Foundation understands the importance of culture and history, and designed the Cultural Heritage Program (CHP) for Black boys ages 10-17. The program consists of three-hour, bi-weekly, Saturday morning seminars during the school year. Each year, CHP participants explore topics related to the following themes:

1. Emotional/Psychological Awareness & Exploration
2. Cultural Heritage & Legacy
3. History, Meaning & Relevancy
4. Self Mastery & Strategies for Living

Every academic year ends with summer research travel and a certificate of completion. Click the button below to apply for the Cultural Heritage Program. All applications must include the following:

• A completed and submitted Participant Application
• Permission Slip/Waiver (2 pages)
• General Release
• Two (2) letters of recommendation (teachers, principals, counselors, pastor, mentor, etc.)
• Most recent transcript or report card
• Two (2) essays (Maximum 500 words each)

Open Enrollment: May 6, 2023 – August 27, 2023
Program Start Date: Saturday, September 9, 2023