Saturday, March 30, 2013

Supporting African American Children


The National Black Child Development Institute website is divided into six sections: Who we are, what we do, events, support, news, and resources.  Each section explored allowed me to better familiarize myself with the organization.  I most particularly enjoyed the affiliates information they provide and are located in over 10 states and a total of 21 cities.  It provides “resources and support around health, parenting, education, and child welfare.”  It provides information that allows exploration on ways to advocate for higher quality education and tips on the aspects of effective programs for Black children and their families. In addition, the events section allows professionals the opportunity to contribute to the field.  (Dehaney, 2013)
            The fact that the organization focuses solely on black children is a bit controversial.  I chose to explore the organization because I wanted to understand the reasoning behind targeting the black community.  Our exploration of poverty demonstrated that African American children are more vulnerable to poverty than a majority of American children.  This insight made me realize why the organization would want to focus on African American children.  Because they tend to comprise a majority of the children who are poor, the organization provides resources to parents and professionals on ways to effectively support the development of those children and lower the degree of toxic and chronic stress those babies are exposed to.
            The organization is a resource to me because a majority of the families I currently serve are African American.  Knowing the most effective ways to support them and bridge the achievement gap for the little ones is one of my current professionals goals.  I appreciate the website for supporting me in my endeavors.

References
nbcdi.org

2 comments:

  1. Thanks for sharing about the "Black Child" I can say alot although I'm white. My heart is black and I mentor three heart babies that are black. I birthed them from my heart. The contoversial issue that the National Black Child supports only black children -- I think they support them because there is such a need that is sometimes overlooked. Here in Miami - in the city of Overtown they have a Youth Center and it is only for the black populace because they are the residents of the town and they have a need. The Black community is more vulnerable to poverty according to stats that I have read. As far as I'm concerned that is an injustice and looking at history and what the black community has been through you would think there would be more than 21 cities and 10 states that affiliate to this organization. What is wrong with us as a people. Are we so selfish that we can't see the needs of others? The Black community as a whole is still suffering in many areas as I can plainly see here in Miami. Thank-you for your information it was quite informative.
    Kimberly

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  2. I also chose to do research on this particular website. I found this site interesting because it targets the African American community. Being an African American who grew up in a predominantly African American town, I totally understand the need for organizations like the National Black Child Development Institute. I want to work to improve the lives of children and families in my community who are dealing with varying abilities. I still live in the town where I was raised. Thanks so much for the post!

    Amber

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