We’re On A Mission To Improve Youth Literacy Across Baltimore

Stories and Snacks was created out of both observation and purpose. As mentors and community leaders serving in Baltimore schools, we recognized two urgent needs: stronger literacy foundations for young learners and greater representation of positive Black male role models within school spaces.

Too often, students, particularly young Black boys, move through their early academic years without seeing adults who look like them leading, reading, and modeling academic excellence. Representation shapes identity. There is a powerful truth we hold close to our mission: “A child cannot be taught by anyone who despises him, and a child cannot afford to be fooled.” — James Baldwin. Children instinctively know when they are valued. When they see their image and likeness reflected in our mentors, it creates excitement, trust, and encouragement. It tells them they belong in academic spaces and that literacy is for them.

At the same time, we observed students struggling with early reading proficiency. Literacy is the gateway to all other learning. Without strong foundational reading skills and a love for books in the primary grades, achievement gaps widen over time. We believed literacy support had to be engaging, relational, culturally affirming, and joyful, not merely instructional.

From this understanding, Stories and Snacks was launched.

The program creates a welcoming environment where young learners enjoy healthy snacks while listening to age appropriate stories read by trained mentors. Each session includes interactive discussions and hands-on activities that strengthen comprehension, expand vocabulary, and build critical thinking skills. More importantly, students experience reading as empowering and affirming.

Since its inception, Stories and Snacks has served over 600 students at Gwynn’s Falls and Hartford Heights, fostering a love of reading, strengthening academic foundations, and reinforcing literacy and leadership, one story at a time.