By: Stephanie Woods McKinney
The New York Association of Black Journalists was excited to attend the celebration of the 10th anniversary of The Knowledge House (TKH). The nonprofit organization was founded in 2014 by Jerelyn Rodriguez and co-founder Joe Carrano with a plan to holistically educate and empower disadvantaged youth through technology careers and computer-based training.
The program has grown and currently offers training in New York state; Newark, New Jersey; Atlanta, Georgia; Los Angeles, California; and Washington, D.C. The organization takes pride in its values, ensuring that its work supports the collaborative efforts of its sponsors.
This year’s special guest was Richard Buery Jr., chief executive officer of The Robin Hood Foundation (TRF). TRF is New York City’s largest local poverty-fighting philanthropy organization.The foundation believes its support of TKH is the perfect partnership since their missions coincide in bridging the gap of racial inequity and injustice in computer and technology knowledge for underserved youth. TKH believes education in STEM—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—is critically required for youth to compete economically and overcome the financial disparities of poverty.
Jerelyn has spent the past 10 years nurturing and mentoring young adults with a team of computer professionals and building strong relationships with organizations dedicated to supporting TKH’s efforts.
Staff and corporate volunteers assist with the organization’s success and contribute time and knowledge to its two signature programs: The Karim Kharbouch Coding Fellowship and The Innovation Fellowship. The Karim Kharbouch Coding Fellowship is a high school youth program offered by TKH. The 12-month program begins with a summer intensive session and is followed by monthly career and college access workshops and coaching sessions. High schoolers are trained in coding and design and are introduced to STEM careers and internships. Eligibility is based on being an enrolled high school sophomore, junior, or senior and a resident of one of the TKH locations. The Innovation Fellowship focuses on educating the community and adheres to the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.” It currently offers several programs for young adults.
This free 12-month program supports adult learners and job-seeking participants with little or no formal post-secondary education. The training consists of data analysis, cybersecurity, web development, data science, and UX/UI design (user experience and user interface). To participate in this program, participants must be 18 years or older, have a household income under $60,000, and be residents of one of the TKH locations.
According to Richard Buery Jr., “It is extremely important to understand the disparities of wealth and knowledge, which are critical elements desperately needed to fight impoverishment. Computer science and artificial intelligence are rapidly transforming these injustices among those living in poverty. AI is a wealth management tool, and knowledge in this field is vital to making and sustaining wealth.” Richard also noted how proud he was to partner with an organization whose vision is “groundbreaking” and aimed at dismantling systemic injustices in the field of computer science. Seventy-five percent of those enrolled in the program have graduated, and 75% have enrolled in college STEM programs. The average salary of those completing the programs is $75,000 or more annually. The program is proud to have influenced and aided in the welfare of 2,500 participants who have successfully completed the programs and moved on to live flourishing and prosperous lives. To learn more about these dynamic organizations making real systemic changes, check out their website.
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