Enrollment for 2025 is now open. Enrollment information is provided below.
Purpose
Deaconess’ strategic plan calls for engaging local United Church of Christ congregations to support the Foundation’s child advocacy ministry. In partnership with Children’s Defense Fund, the largest child advocacy organization in the United States, and Beyond Housing, Deaconess supports a network of CDF Freedom Schools®. CDF Freedom Schools® provide meaningful engagement opportunities for congregations by placing them in proximity to the needs of children in order to inform faith-based advocacy.
History
CDF Freedom Schools® are intergenerational, culturally competent summer programs, built on literacy, leadership and social advocacy. The curriculum is rooted in the Civil Rights Movement’s Freedom Summer, and was originally conceived and proposed by Charles Cobb, a UCC college student.
Future
Deaconess embraces the Freedom School intent of being a “movement building mechanism” and intends to advance it as such.
Structure
The six-week program provides literacy building activities, empowerment, meals, snacks and activities, including field trips, at no charge to families. The CDF model also includes extensive testing and evaluation to measure academic progress.
Enrollment
Enrollment for all four sites is now open. There is limited capacity at each program site.
Locations
Beyond Housing at The Legacy Center
6850 Normandale Dr.
Velda City, MO 63121
Christ the King UCC
11370 Old Halls Ferry Rd
Florissant, MO 63033
Deaconess Center
1000 N. Vandeventer Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63113
Peace UCC
475 E. Lockwood Ave.
Webster Groves, MO 63119
Frequently Asked Questions
Dates:
Monday, June 16, 2025 through Friday, July 25, 2025
The program will be CLOSED on Thursday, June 19 and Friday, June 20 in observance of Juneteenth and on Friday, July 4 in observance of Independence Day.
Hours:
Program Hours: 8 a.m. 3 p.m. (Monday - Friday)
Aftercare hours: TBD
Attendance is important during the six-week program. Absences are limited to three.
Interested in learning more?
Email CDF Freedom Schools