About the Micah Initiative: Building Upon a Legacy of Service and Advocacy
Founded 25 years ago at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church by visionary leaders including Ruby G. Martin, Betsy Carr, Buford Scott, and Rev. Benjamin Campbell, the Micah Initiative has been a powerful force for change in Richmond, VA. Inspired by the Old Testament prophet Micah’s call to “love mercy, seek justice, and walk humbly with your God,” our foundation has dedicated itself to addressing the stark educational disparities faced by predominantly students of color in our inner-city schools.
Today, as we celebrate our 25th anniversary, the Micah Initiative proudly builds upon this rich legacy. In this new day, we continue to be guided by the Spirit that inspired the prophet Micah, advocating for just and equitable education in our most under-resourced schools. This new era is marked by a deepened commitment to inclusivity and a broader engagement across faith communities and any civic-minded group or organization committed to our public schools.
Central to our mission is the transformative power of one-on-one mentoring, which profoundly impacts both mentors and mentees. This personal connection does more than improve literacy; it fosters character development, reduces social and emotional concerns, and restores hope, empowering Micah students to not only achieve their academic goals but to flourish in all aspects of their lives. Understanding the critical role of literacy, especially for students from underrepresented backgrounds, the Micah Initiative emphasizes that reading at grade level is a key predictor of high school graduation and future success.
The call and need for caring, consistent adults in our public schools is stronger now than it has ever been. More are being asked of our educators and administrators, students are struggling academically, socially, emotionally. While our political leaders wrestle with the exact degree our community will care for its most vulnerable members, our students look to us right now. Will we let another generation pass? Will we become passionate advocates for public education, not just for bare minimum resources, but for what our students need and deserve to flourish, especially those students who already have so much to overcome in their lives?
You can make a difference!
Join us now in committing to be a mentor in our of our public schools! Reach out and we can help you get started.
Join us as we continue to champion this cause, inspired by our past and motivated by our future. Together, with your support, the Micah Initiative will keep striving to transform education in Richmond, ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed in a community that values justice, mercy, and humility.
