Connecting for Kids is committed to providing education and support to families with a concern about their child. Many families have requested resources to improve their education on racism or to better educate their children on the impacts of racial inequity. This list is meant to offer a "jumping off" point for families. It includes organizations that are active in our community, resources to help families understand and talk about race, as well as books for children. | You're Not AloneIn addition to the resources on this page, CFK offers opportunities to learn and connect with other families. To Connect:
To Learn More:
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Local Organizations Where Families Can Learn MoreThe following organizations participate actively in improving racial equity in Cleveland. |
Cleveland Neighborhood ProgressCleveland Neighborhood Progress's mission is to foster inclusive communities of choice and opportunity throughout Cleveland. Note: Cleveland Neighborhood Progress has partnered with the Racial Equity Institute to offer racial equity training programs for adults. | First Year Cleveland
First Year Cleveland’s mission is to mobilize the community through partnerships and a unified strategy to reduce infant deaths and racial disparities. | The Urban League of Greater ClevelandThe Urban League of Greater Cleveland is dedicated to providing equal opportunities for African-Americans and other minority members to develop and exercise their potential on par with all other Americans through education, research, advocacy and provision of services. | YWCA Greater ClevelandYWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. Note: The YWCA has offered free 21-Day Racial Equity Challenges in 2019 and 2020. Adults may participate in past challenges by clicking here. |
Resources for Talking About RaceFor many families, it can be challenging to start a conversation about race. These resources offer topics that families can explore together. |
Free Resources for Supporting Antiracist EducationCollection by BrainPOP
| Lessons from the ADLOnline collection on historical and current events exploring diversity, bias and social justice
| Systemic Racism ExplainedVideo by act.tv
| Talking About RaceParent Education guide from National Museum of African American History and Culture
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Books with Diverse Characters (for young children)
According to Jambo Books co-founder Mijha Godfrey, young children pick up their values from their families and the stories that are read to them. Families can introduce young children to diverse characters with these book suggestions: |
All Are Welcomeby Alexandra Penfold
| Mango, Abuela and Me
By Meg Medina
| Hair Loveby Matthew A. Cherry
| Bi Bim Bop
by Linda Sue Park
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For additional book recommendations for younger children, see Mijha Godfrey's picks, 50 books recommended by the School Library Journal, recommendations from the Anti-defamation League, or recommendations from the New York Times.
Books about Racism, Civil Rights, and Social Justice (for school-aged children)Families with school-age children can continue conversations about race with these books, recommended by the New York Times: |
For additional book recommendations for school-age children search recommendations from the Anti-defamation League.
| Call, text or email: Phone: 1-440-570-5908 | Post Office Box: 30628 Detroit Rd. #252 |
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