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March 15, 2016
Dear Friend,
Recently, we've seen massive protests and civil unrest sweeping across the country. As I look at the crowds marching, I am affirmed in a belief: Black lives not only matter when they are lost, but when they are saved. Young Black men achieving is activism. Young Black men succeeding is protest. Young Black men believing is a movement.
This is why today I am so proud to announce that for the 7th year in a row 100% of Urban Prep's graduates-all young Black men-have been admitted to college.
For the past ten years Urban Prep has worked to raise awareness of the potential of Black boys and young men by telling the stories of our students. Year after year, Urban Prep students demonstrate grit and determination on the path to college and career. Together, they have reached significant academic milestones and have formed a community of support that extends beyond the walls of Urban Prep.
This year more than ever, we want to recognize and celebrate what it means to be an Urban Prep young man. And so we are launching Urban Prep's 10AndChange campaign, commemorating our ten-year anniversary--ten years of changing the narrative.
The 10AndChange campaign includes a series of events, the first of which will feature Urban Prep students and alumni teaching a "PopUP" class in Daley Center as a way to demonstrate the power and importance of challenging society's preconceptions about Blacks boys and young men. You are most welcome to join us on March 21st between noon and 1 p.m. in the lobby of Daley Center for our first PopUP class.
Additional 10AndChange events include community conversations featuring prominent leaders who have contributed to changing the narrative of Black men; a film series; student visits to Chicago companies and cultural institutions (Discovering Our City); a Black male achievement conference; and a 10th anniversary gala. For a list of 10AndChange initiatives and to see a video about the campaign, visit www.urbanprep.org/change. You can also join the conversation via social media by using #10AndChange and following Urban Prep on Facebook, Twitter (you can send a tweet congratulating the seniors by clicking here), Instagram, Periscope, and Snapchat. And, finally, to support the campaign and Urban Prep's students and alumni, please make a tax-deductible contribution at www.urbanprep.org/donate.
Today, Barbershop: The Next Cut cast members Ice Cube, Cedric the Entertainer, Regina Hall, Common, and Deon Cole joined us at our assembly announcing the 100% college acceptance achievement and the 10AndChange campaign. Their presence is a testament to the significance of our students' achievements. Your support is a testament to our students' futures as they fulfill their potential and promise in their communities and all over the world.
Together, we are a movement. Together, we are Urban Prep. Together, We Believe.
10AndChange,
Tim King
Founder & CEO
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