Mission Statement The Sims-Fayola Foundation's mission is to improve the life outcomes of young men of color through direct programming and catalyzing systems change by addressing the root causes of educational inequities and institutional barriers. Our Vision Through collaborative partnerships with schools, community organizations, city agencies, and policymakers, we aim to collectively transform policies, practices, and resources to create an inclusive and supportive environment for these young men and boys. This collaborative approach fosters a systemic shift that benefits individuals and contributes to broader societal change and equity. We envision a future where policies, practices, and resources are transformed to create an inclusive and supportive environment for these young men and boys, enabling them to thrive and contribute to a more equitable society.
Description
Our Why
Despite persistent calls for change, the United States education system has inadequately addressed the historic inequities faced by students of color. Young men of color encounter pervasive challenges from early childhood through adulthood, enduring disproportionate disadvantages irrespective of socioeconomic status. These challenges range from individual experiences to systemic barriers deeply ingrained in social norms, attitudes, institutions, and policies. In educational settings, boys of color face pronounced disparities contributing to the alarming school-to-prison pipeline. Research underscores the direct correlation between these disparities and the overrepresentation of young men of color, particularly African-American males, in juvenile detention centers and the prison system. Our mission is grounded in dismantling these barriers, advocating for equity, and fostering inclusive educational opportunities for all.
