Mitch Leyor Foundation: Literacy Initiative for African American Athletes
Executive Summary
The Mitch Leyor Foundation is embarking on a critical initiative to address the alarming issue of illiteracy among professional African American athletes. Recent studies have revealed that a significant number of these athletes are reading below a sixth-grade level, highlighting an urgent need for intervention. This document outlines the foundation’s intentions, key statistics, and strategic approach to tackling this pressing issue.
Statistical Overview
Literacy Rates Among African American Athletes
Reading Level: A substantial percentage of African American professional athletes demonstrate reading skills below the sixth-grade level.
Graduation Rates: As of 2024, the average graduation rate for Black student-athletes in top college programs is 79.3%, compared to 92.5% for white student-athletes.
Post-Career Challenges: Over 51% of Black males without a completed four-year college degree are underemployed or unemployed.
Impact on Career and Life
Professional Opportunities: Only about 2% of NCAA athletes go on to play professionally.
Incarceration Risk: Athletes who fail to complete a single year of college are twice as likely to be incarcerated as employed.
Foundation Relaunch and Project Development
Core Objectives
Elevate literacy rates among African American athletes
Provide comprehensive educational support and resources
Empower athletes for success both on and off the field
Strategic Initiatives
Tailored Literacy Programs: Develop customized reading and comprehension programs designed specifically for athletes.
Mentorship Network: Establish a robust network of Mitch Leyor ambassadors and former professional white male athletes to provide guidance and support. This diverse group of mentors will offer unique perspectives and experiences, fostering cross-cultural understanding and providing valuable insights into navigating both athletic and post-athletic careers.
Technology-Driven Learning: Implement cutting-edge educational technologies to enhance learning experiences.
Life Skills Workshops: Offer workshops on financial literacy, career planning, and personal development.
Testing Initiative: A new ‘testing’ initiative is being developed, with a potential launch in late 2025. This program aims to evaluate the effectiveness of our literacy interventions and mentorship programs, allowing for data-driven improvements and tailored support for individual athletes.
Ambassadorial Efforts
The Mitch Leyor Foundation is actively engaging high-profile athletes, educators, and community leaders to serve as ambassadors for this initiative. These individuals will:
Raise awareness about the importance of literacy in athletic communities
Participate in mentorship programs
Advocate for policy changes to support athlete education
Contribute to the development and implementation of the ‘testing’ initiative
Scriptural Foundation
The initiative draws inspiration from Proverbs 4:7:
“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.”
This verse underscores the foundation’s belief in the transformative power of education and knowledge acquisition.
Projected Outcomes
Increase in literacy rates among African American athletes
Higher graduation rates in collegiate sports programs
Improved post-athletic career prospects
Reduction in post-career unemployment and incarceration rates
Comprehensive data from the ‘testing’ initiative to guide future program enhancements
Timeline
2025-2026: Development and refinement of existing programs
Late 2025: Potential launch of the ‘testing’ initiative
2026 onwards: Implementation of data-driven improvements based on testing results
Call to Action
The Mitch Leyor Foundation invites stakeholders, educational institutions, and corporate partners to join this crucial initiative. Together, we can create a lasting impact on the lives of African American athletes, ensuring they have the tools and resources needed for lifelong success.