The Neighborhood Academy began as a summer-skill learning program in 1993, so you might say summertime is where our story began. Our mission, to break the cycle of generational poverty by empowering youth and preparing them for college and citizenship, has acknowledged and integrated the importance of summer learning and engagement since our founding as a school in 2001.

The impact of learning loss can be devastating, especially for students who are from low-income and underrepresented communities. It is estimated that in the United States, Black students lost 10 months of learning on average due to COVID-19 closures, exacerbating existing achievement gaps. The estimated economic impact caused by learning loss is also staggering: Black students could lose nearly $90,000 over the course of their future careers.

As our Summer Session begins and our students return to campus for in-person programming, we recognize the urgency of intervening in the lives of Pittsburghs most vulnerable youth. Their lives and livelihoods are on the line.

However, thanks to the Burke Foundation, we have a greater opportunity to provide our deserving students with a high-quality, supportive educational environment during the summertime. Heres how you can double your impact:

Between July 1 and August 31, the Burke Foundation is graciously offering a $25,000 Challenge Grant to match your donation dollar-for-dollar.

What weve learned from providing 20 years of college-preparatory education is that summertime learning works and provides pathways to future success for Black children, which they otherwise would not receive. Please consider making a gift to sustain and support our school, which will be doubled thanks to the generosity of the Burke Foundation.

In solidarity,

Dr. Anthony P. Williams

Head of School