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A Mentorship and Literacy Initiative of the Atlanta Graduate Chapter of Swing Phi Swing Social Fellowship, Inc.
Join the Club!
Stay tuned for the 2026–2027 cohort of Black Girls Read!
Applications open April 2026.
Black Girls Read is more than a program — it’s a movement to uplift the next generation of readers, leaders, and dreamers. Together, we’re creating spaces where Black girls can see themselves in stories, share their voices boldly, and inspire others through the power of reading.
When Black girls read, they lead. When they lead, they change the world.
About the Program
Black Girls Read is a joyful and empowering literacy and mentorship program designed for middle school–aged Black girls. Created by the Mentorship Committee of the Atlanta Graduate Chapter of Swing Phi Swing Social Fellowship, Inc., the program encourages girls to see themselves reflected in the stories they read and to build confidence in their own voices and dreams. Since 2017, this program has served as a staple in the greater Atlanta area community.
Through reading, mentorship, and community service, Black Girls Read transforms the act of reading into an experience of self-discovery, connection, and empowerment. Each summer, participants take part in reading circles, journaling activities, creative expression projects, and service-learning experiences that help them develop strong literacy skills and a deeper sense of belonging.
We believe that when Black girls read, they lead — and when they lead, they inspire entire communities to dream bigger.
What Makes Black Girls Read Unique
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Culturally Relevant Books: Participants explore stories written by and about Black girls and women, helping them connect their identities and aspirations to what they read.
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Digital Literacy Access: Each participant receives a Kindle and one-year Kindle Unlimited subscription, ensuring year-round access to empowering books. Participants also learn how to borrow and download e-books from local libraries, promoting access, convenience, and lifelong reading habits.
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Mentorship: Each reading group is led by trained mentors from the Atlanta Graduate Chapter who provide trauma-informed, culturally responsive support to guide discussion, creativity, and personal growth.
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Creative Reflection: Girls engage in journaling, art, and storytelling projects that encourage them to process what they’ve learned and celebrate their own voices.
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Community Service*: Each summer, participants collaborate to design and install a Tiny Library in the community, filled with culturally relevant books. The chapter maintains the library year-round, ensuring that access to diverse stories continues to grow. This hands-on service experience allows participants to give back and share the joy of reading with others. *Project may vary.
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Family and Community Events: Two major events each summer — a Community Read-In and a Closing Celebration — invite families and local partners to celebrate literacy, creativity, and connection.
Our Mission
To cultivate a joyful, affirming community where Black girls read, reflect, and rise together. Through culturally relevant literature, mentorship, and creative expression, Black Girls Read nurtures confidence, critical thinking, and leadership—empowering each participant to see herself as the author of her own story and the architect of her dreams.
"It helped me find books that I really liked and it made me want to read more books I enjoyed - not really not reading before."
- Mae Flint, 2017 Mentee
Why It Matters
Representation matters. Many young Black girls lack access to stories and spaces that reflect their voices, values, and potential. Black Girls Read bridges that gap by offering:
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A safe and affirming space to connect with mentors and peers
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Access to diverse and empowering books (both digital and physical)
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Opportunities to lead, serve, and share their voices
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Skills that extend beyond literacy — including confidence, teamwork, and empathy
By combining reading with mentorship and service, Black Girls Read helps girls develop a lifelong love of learning while becoming changemakers in their communities.
Get Involved
There are many ways to support Black Girls Read:
📧 Mentorship Committee | Atlanta Graduate Chapter of Swing Phi Swing Social Fellowship, Inc.
✉️ atlgradsps@gmail.com
