The moment you walk through the doors of the CDF (Children’s Defense Fund) Freedom School hosted by Peace UCC, you can feel the excitement. As scholars finish breakfast and gather for Harambee, the room comes alive with singing, encouragement, and joyful anticipation for the day ahead. Each day, a special guest reader visits to share a favorite book with the scholars and talks about their background, their work, and why they chose that particular story. These conversations help scholars see themselves reflected in their community while fostering a love of reading.

This summer, the CDF Freedom School at Peace UCC is serving 50 scholars in kindergarten through sixth grade during its six-week summer program, where consistent attendance is an important part of building literacy skills, confidence, and community. What stands out most is not just the scholars’ enthusiasm, but the relationships being built. Every Servant Leader Intern actively engages with scholars, creating a welcoming environment where every child feels encouraged, valued, and excited to learn.

CDF Freedom School is more than a summer program. Throughout the year, Peace UCC also hosts after-school programming, winter break programming, and sessions during teacher planning and school breaks, continuing to expand its impact each year.

CDF Freedom School is one of the many ministries of Peace UCC’s newly established nonprofit, Peace Community Building, created to expand opportunities for children and families in the community. As this ministry continues to grow, Peace Community Building is actively seeking community partners and financial contributions to help sustain and expand its impact. If you or your congregation would like to partner with this important work, now is a wonderful time to get involved.

For more information, contact Rev. Wendy Bruner at [email protected].