Books For Boys: A Huge Success!

From February 7th to March 4th, the PATS (Potsdam Akwesasne Talent Search) Program along with the BLACK (Brothers Leading America Continuing Knowledge) group conducted a book drive within Akwesasne and surrounding areas and set a goal to collect at least 303 books. Once collected, the books would then be distributed amongst the male students at the Tsi Snaihne School allowing each boy to take home three books. The book drive exceeded their goal and raised over 1000 books allowing for each boy to have 10 books!

The “Books for Boys” celebration was held at the Tsi Snaihne School on Tuesday, March 22nd. Representatives from SUNY Potsdam arrived with a van full of gift bags for the students. As the bags lined the stage, the boys filled the gym. The air was filled with a special kind of excitement as the boys waited eagerly to see what was inside the bags made just for them.

Presenters from the BLACK group talked with the young boys about the importance of reading. Some students expressed their own reasons why reading is important to them. The gift bags were then distributed amongst the group and their package included a personalized bookmark designed by the BLACK group. The room filled with excitement as each boy opened their books and started reading and sharing.

“Books for Boys” representatives started the initiative because they wanted the boys to start their own library at home and get more involved in reading. Their ultimate goal is to increase the number of male students from Akwesasne who attend college.

Principal Lynda Brown expressed her enthusiasm for the cause. Along with staff members, they are already planning how to promote reading for boys by purchasing books for the library that will be geared toward males. “It was fantastic to have young men who are excellent role models, promote the importance of reading, come into the school,” Mrs. Brown expressed.

Both the PATS Program and the BLACK group would like to make this an annual event. They spoke about starting tutoring as well with our young boys as a way to promote education. Nia:wen to all who donated and participated in the book drive. It was your support that will help make a brighter future for our boys.