Sponsoring Freedom Schools Program in Park Heights, Baltimore

To honor our founder Stewart Bainum Sr.’s commitment to faith-based education, the Foundation works to advance Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) education and expand the availability of high-quality learning environments for infants, toddlers, children and youth. One part of this work includes our partnership with Baltimore Junior Academy (BJA), where we sponsor the annual Freedom Schools program.

Created by the Children’s Defense Fund (CDF), the Freedom Schools program is a six-week summer enrichment program that features an engaging reading curriculum and social action projects in order to build strong, literate and empowered children prepared to make a difference in themselves, their families, their communities and the world. The program is a key part of CDF’s work to ensure a level playing field for all children. While the Freedom Schools program places a heavy emphasis on reading and literacy, its well-rounded curriculum also includes visual arts, performing arts, American sign language and nutrition. Beyond the classroom, students or “scholars” take field trips into the community that often celebrate and center on the arts.

In addition to sponsoring the Freedom Schools program for four years, the Foundation has partnered with BJA on other efforts to enhance facilities and academics at the Seventh-day Adventist school. The Foundation’s work in the Park Heights community, where BJA is located, aligns with our overall commitment to reaching underserved populations. BJA’s Freedom Schools program is the largest summer enrichment program in this area of Baltimore — accommodating 100 participants.