Harambee

Harambee

Harambee brings children, staff, volunteers, parents and community members together to celebrate themselves and each other. This time energizes scholars and staff and sets the atmosphere for a collaborative and deep learning experience.

Harambee includes the following components:
Read Aloud ♦ Motivational Song ♦ Cheers/Chants ♦
Recognitions ♦ Moment of Silence ♦ Announcements

You Can Help!

WHO: Role models who love to read aloud to children, who demonstrate the diversity of our Charlotte community and want to encourage a love of reading

WHAT: Participate in Harambee by reading aloud to 50-100 scholars ranging in ages from 5 - 14 years old. Tell them about yourself and your role in the community, answer some questions and read aloud a book we will provide for you or you can bring your own.

WHY: To introduce our scholars to a variety of role models in our community and to demonstrate that reading is important to everyone

Click here to read in the Summer.

Click here to read in Afterschool.

Harambee is a Kiswahili word that means "let's pull together." The phrase was first used as a method of unity upon the release of Jomo Kenyatta from prison in Kenya. Kenyatta had been wrongly imprisoned for several years. While in prison, he had been treated harshly. Towards the end of his stay in prison, Kenyatta was elected president of the newly independent Kenya. When he was released, there was fear throughout the country that he and his supporters would seek revenge for their cruel treatment. In his first speech as president to his countrymen, Black and White, friend and enemy, he asked that all people hearing his voice join hands. He then instructed them to shout "Harambee!" three times. Even today in Kenya, Harambee is used to settle disputes and other conflicts. During the CDF Freedom Schools® day, Harambee! is a time of informal sharing when children and staff come together to celebrate themselves and the spirit of community.

harambee_img_7409_boyssing_exc_crpd harambee_img_7253_barnessmile_crpd