Network for the Dev of Children of African Descent

A Place of Hope, Healing, Inspiration & Community Connections

Children, families and youth often come to us seeking support that helps them to take control of their lives and become self-determined. Parents come expressing interest in culturally relevant information and resources that help their children succeed in school. Parents, children and youth alike, seek to build self-confidence as well as learn about the rich culture and heritage of African and African American people and their many contributions to the world.

What families find here at NdCAD is hope, healing and inspiration along with critical connections to other community members who provide networks of support. Families find affirmation of their innate abilities to overcome struggles and to also share wisdom and advice with others. Families access important information and resources that they can use to grow, learn and develop--across generations.

Our Mission: We exist to strengthen the cultural connections within communities of African descent that promote, sustain and enhance the healthy development of our children.

Our Goals: To positively impact the cultural, spiritual and academic success of children, through literacy and to share what we learn with others who serve our children and families.

Our Programs & Services:

Free Children's Books--Free books made available to children every Saturday, from 12noon to 2pm. New and gently used books are donated by caring members of the community and become the property of children.

Sankofa Reading Intervention/Tutoring Program--Research-based reading intervention services proven to help struggling readers improve reading proficiency and school performance. Services provided after-school and during summer months for K-5th grade students in St. Paul and Minneapolis.

"Parent Power" Literacy & Advocacy Workshops--Training and coaching that helps parents build strong literacy and cultural foundations in the home, while also gaining skills and tools to effectively partner with school teachers.

Uhuru Youth Scholars--Youth Participatory Action Research Program for high school students who are interested in becoming community researchers, studying community issues and developing solutions. Students may be eligible to receive dual credit (high school and college) for participating.

Resource Libraries & Professional Development Training--A collection of culturally-specific educational materials for parents, educators, child care providers and youth workers as well as training workshops that help service providers build cultural competencies.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL US AT 651-209-3355 OR 612-588-2244.