"My Brother’s Keeper is all about
[helping] more of our young people stay on track. Providing the support
they need to think more broadly about their future. Building on what
works – when it works, in those critical life-changing moments.”
- President Barack Obama, February 2, 2015
Six Community Milestones
On February 27, 2014, President Barack Obama launched the “My
Brother’s Keeper” initiative. The initiative is a community challenge
with six important milestones with the goal of addressing the
opportunity gaps faced by young people of color.
The My Brother’s Keeper initiative encourages candid dialogues
around the country and a greater sense of responsibility among community
leaders and young people themselves to put all youth in a position to
thrive, regardless of their race, gender, or socioeconomic status.
The Obama Administration is joining with cities and towns,
businesses, and foundations who are taking important steps to connect
young people to mentoring, support networks, and the skills they need to
find a good job or go to college and work their way into the middle
class.
1.
Getting a Healthy Start and Entering School Ready to Learn. All children should have a healthy start and enter school ready – cognitively, physically, socially, and emotionally.
2.
Reading at Grade Level by Third Grade. All children should be reading at grade level by age 8 – the age at which reading to learn becomes essential.
3.
Graduating from High School Ready for College and Career.
All youth should receive a quality high school education and graduate
with the skills and tools needed to advance to postsecondary education
or training.
4.
Completing Postsecondary Education or Training.
Every American should have the option to attend postsecondary education
and receive the education and training needed for the quality jobs of
today and tomorrow.
5.
Successfully Entering the Workforce. Anyone who wants a job should be able to get a job that allows them to support themselves and their families.
6.
Keeping Kids on Track and Giving Them Second Chances.
All youth and young adults should be safe from violent crime; and
individuals who are confined should receive the education, training, and
treatment they need for a second chance.