Giving Back with I AM Academy

Photos courtesy of I AM Academy

The mission of I AM Academy is to empower black and brown youth to see their own potential, experience joy, become confident leaders, and drive positive change in their communities. Founded by educators Lindsay and Henry Cherry, the organization acts as a safe space of learning, connecting, and growing for African American students in our area. Lindsay is also the Assistant Principal for West Ottawa Public Schools. Urban Street reached out to her to find out more about the I Am Academy.

US: What inspired you to start I AM Academy, and how did your personal experiences shape the mission and vision of the organization?

LC: For many years, the preparation of African American students in our schools has left them inadequately prepared to compete for desirable jobs and equitable compensation. Many have experienced the effects of generational poverty. Others have been steered to inferior schools or placed in less challenging curricula. Nearly all have been subjected to lower expectations by society and by themselves. Although some are not influenced by these factors, many still under-achieve despite their ability. Henry and (I) had similar experiences through the public school systems within West Michigan while growing up. There were micro and macro aggressions from adults and peers within the school systems, opportunities were not encouraged or accessible, and representation was just not available. Henry (and I are) both committed educators. We saw the impact of these factors on their students and even on their own children. They reached out to individual students with various forms of aid but soon realized that more help was needed. They developed a plan to help more students and address many of the root causes. It soon became apparent that students needed personal attention and that mentors would be needed to meet that need. While not neglecting the issues of poverty, hunger, and societal inequities, they began recruiting and training mentors, many of whom were minority students from Hope College and other post-secondary education backgrounds. They developed a model for I AM Academy, which continues to expand in scope each year.

US: How does I AM Academy engage with the local community and schools to support African American students?

LC: I AM Academy engages with the local community and schools to support African American students through various initiatives and partnerships. We collaborate with local community organizations, businesses, and religious institutions to create a supportive network for our students. These partnerships help provide resources, mentorship opportunities, and enrichment activities. We have organized cultural events, like the MLK Day Celebration, Juneteenth Freedom Festival, and the Black Gala that celebrate African American heritage and foster a sense of community. 

US: What role do parents and families play in your programs, and how do you involve them in the students’ educational journey?

LC: Parents and families serve as the primary support system for students. Their involvement enhances students’ motivation, confidence, and academic performance. They are always welcome at any of our events and program initiatives, invited to volunteer and chaperone, and have served as role models for our students. 
They are my motivation to find the balance and sustain both roles. 

US: What advice would you give to other educators or community leaders who want to start similar initiatives to support underrepresented students in their areas?

LC: Educators and community leaders should get involved in this work because it directly addresses the disparities in educational opportunities and outcomes, helping to create a more equitable society. By supporting underrepresented students, they can empower the next generation to reach their full potential and contribute positively to their communities.

The work is not easy, but it is necessary. And although it can feel daunting because there is so much need out there, just start with one thing and do one thing and see where that takes you. 

How can individuals and organizations in the community get involved and support the mission of I AM Academy? LC: We welcome volunteers at our community events, and I AM Mobile Food Distribution. People can go to our website or social media about updates and to sign up for volunteering. For partnerships, sponsorships, etc. they can email us at info@iamacademymi.org 

US: Where can people donate or sign up to volunteer?

LC: If you would like to be an I AM Academy Donor, You can write a check to “I AM Academy” and send it to our P.O. Box. If desired, please specify which program or event you’d like your funds to go toward. 190 E. 8th Street; P.O. Box 2072; Holland, MI 49422. Or visit our website at iamacademymi.org and click on donate.