L.I.T.E.

Contact Information | L.I.T.E.

Jamir Jumoke, L.I.T.E. Youth Development Director

(910) 360-9232 | jjumoke@lincnc.org

Download: L.I.T.E. flyer

What We Do

L.I.T.E. = LINC Initiative to Educate

The L.I.T.E.  is a collection of culturally-sensitive development initiatives, programs and activities, primarily for African-American youth.

L.I.T.E. originated as a structured enrichment program – originally called “L.I.T.E. Manhood” – located at LINC, Inc., designed for young African American males, to reduce barriers in education and/or employment. The L.I.T.E. program has expanded in offerings for a wider service population to include both young men and young women, while continuing to prioritize enabling youth to remain enrolled in school and avoid direct involvement with the juvenile justice system.

The curriculum emphasizes:

• Intensive case management

• Rights of passage

• Tutoring

• Educational and cultural field trips

• Weekly “reality” workshops

• Mentoring

• Spiritual awareness

Program participants experience a supportive group culture, learn appropriate leadership skills, acceptable school and community behavior, gain self-confidence and self-esteem, and learn appropriate etiquette for advancement within society.

Our goal is to encourage a change in thinking that in turn influences behavior. Ultimately, through L.I.T.E., program staff are working to “break the cycle of crime.”

L.I.T.E. Objectives for Participants:

• Demonstrate improved behavior

• Increase academic success

• Improve graduation rates

• Reduce potential for future incarceration

• Increase the likelihood of enrollment in post-secondary education programs

• Demonstrate a reduction in the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases
• Achieve improved cultural awareness through the celebration of African American pioneers
• Avoid teen fatherhood

• Increase end-of-grade reading scores and receive higher SAT scores

• Enjoy increased parent/guardian involvement

A vital component of this program has involved the active involvement of the Community Resource Coordinators (CRCs) of L.I.T.E. in New Hanover County schools. CRCs collaborated closely with students identified as Tier 3, necessitating intensive intervention despite prior supplemental instruction. CRCs engaged with students’ families to identify service gaps and provide support to address their needs. Employing a strengths-based approach, the program offered comprehensive life skills training, educational assistance, skills development, employment opportunities, and community involvement initiatives. Additionally, the CommUniversity segment of the program aimed to empower participants through education centered on the experiences and needs of Black males, fostering intellectual, political, and social development. The CRC program is currently not running due to lack of funding.

Who Is Eligible for L.I.T.E.

• African-American youth
• Residents of New Hanover County and Brunswick County
• Ages 12 to 30 (age requirements and restrictions are determined by the specific L.I.T.E. program or activity)

How to Apply

Youth interested in participating in L.I.T.E. can apply by contacting program staff directly. They will be scheduled for an in-person interview during which they will complete an application form.

Teachers, parents, law enforcement officers and court officials can also refer youth to the L.I.T.E. program using the LITE online referral form.

At a Glance | Fiscal Year ending June 30 2024