In 1996, GDCC funded and operated a Freedom Schools program, designed to help Dallas' children achieve academic success, increase self-esteem, stop pregnancy and drug use, set goals for the future, and resolve conflicts creatively. Coordinated nationally by the Black Community Crusade for Children and the Children's Defense Fund, Freedom Schools offer opportunities to help expand the learning gains made by children during the school year. The free summer programs help them establish a sense of their own history and provide them with the nutritious meals they need to develop and grow. Ninety-eight percent of Pittston's fifth graders volunteer to read to younger students during the school breakfast period. For 13 years, this extraordinary reading program has had a tremendous impact on the children and community of Pittston.
Volunteers are at all reading levels, from learning-impaired to advanced.
The PAC program is known throughout the Pittston area and is a great source of community pride. An unexpected impact of the program has been its role in enhancing student self-esteem and confidence, and in improving skills for students at all levels, because even slow or hesitant readers do not mind reading aloud to younger students. Younger students look up to them, emulate them in role play, and aspire to become one themselves. The School Board, teachers, parents and students celebrate the program's success each year. Approximately 1,000 members of the community join authors and educators in the annual night celebrating the accomplishments of the participants and the program.