Rise & Flow is an ‘education-through-music’ summer day/ after-school program at Carleton University for under-privileged/ disadvantaged youth that provides lessons and skills necessary for the pursuit of positive and successful lives. Many youth grow up in communities where easy money attained through crime, drugs, and violence is consistently promoted and the pursuit of educations is too often frowned upon. They face a series of obstacles sometimes both inside and outside the home.

In 2010, ComeUNITY (created by Carleton Psychology/ African Studies Alumni Jarratt Best) and the Institute of African Studies worked together to change the outlook of these youth, providing them a stable path toward academic and career success. With their expanded knowledge, exposure to a university environment, and reinforced confidence, these youth are equipped with the skills and tools necessary to make significant contributions to society and promote real change.

In 2011, Future Youth, an after-school program for 16-18 year olds will be launched in Ottawa and Toronto to help streamline youth into university while providing mentorship and direct career support. In addition, Rise & Flow will be launched in Toronto and Montreal, with hopes of establishment in Montreal and Halifax.

Together, ComeUNITY, the Institute of African Studies, and Carleton University will continue to provide youth with innovative programming that allows them to truly realize their value and utilize their abilities.

For more information please visit: http://www.riseandflow.ca/