WESTPORT, Oct. 23, 2024 - A Welcome Home Inc has launched an innovative non-profit aimed at closing the enrollment gap for children of color in our top-rated public school districts. The organization will draw on a combination of federal funding, private and corporate donations, and partnerships with government agencies in housing, childcare, and welfare to promote more inclusive educational communities.

As a father of three students in one of Connecticut's leading school systems, Executive Director Craig Connors often felt troubled by the lack of representation of children of color. “Despite its many accolades,” he noted, “diversity is not a strong suit for our district. The more I reflected on it, the more I realized this issue extends beyond just our town.”

Drawing on his investment background, Mr. Connors sought to better understand the issue. He gathered data and analyzed his findings, quickly recognizing that "the problem exists everywhere." Nationwide, he discovered that children identifying as 'Black or African American' were significantly underrepresented in every top public school district compared to their statewide enrollment, with disparities in some areas reaching as high as 85%.

Emphasizing that “complex problems don’t necessarily require complex solutions”—a nod to his venture capital past—Mr. Connors outlined a disruptive strategy he believes is “cheaper, more effective, and easier to implement than what is currently in practice,” and started assembling a team of committed and experienced professionals from education, counseling, politics and digital media.

At the same time, the team began strengthening relationships with various government agencies in education, housing, and social services, while partnering with major corporate sponsors to create alliances that will support the organization’s mission—what they call their "ecosystem of support."

“These children and their families need to feel that the whole community is behind them,” Mr. Connors stressed. “We are going to do everything possible to ensure their success, both inside and outside the classroom. With a little luck, and a lot of help, we can quickly change the trajectory of so many lives, one family at a time. Before long, it will have a positive impact on an entire community. That’s how we change the conversation.”

About A Welcome Home Inc

A Welcome Home Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to “Creating More Inclusive Communities in Education.” Their transformative approach opens doors for more children of color to attend our nation’s best public schools, while helping their families thrive in their vibrant surrounding communities.

For more information visit https://awhinc.org and follow @awelcomehomeorg on X, Facebook, and other social media platforms.