Parents

Dear parents,

Giving your child the opportunity to be a part of the Summer Youth Institute experience will be an opportunity to contribute greatly to their future success. As an attendee of the Summer Youth Institute hosted by the William Winter Institute for Racial Reconciliation, your child will learn ways to develop his or her values, skills, and knowledge. This will be made possible through the attending of several trips around Mississippi’s civil rights history, powerful discussions with other students and counselors, and exposure to a rich collegiate atmosphere.

However, your job doesn’t stop there. As your son or daughter applies, becomes accepted, and attends the Institute, he/she will need all of your dedication and support. With the combined efforts of the Summer Youth Institute staff and you, we can make this experience an exceptional experience for your son or daughter. Encourage your son or daughter to apply for the Summer Youth Institute.

On the first day of the Summer Youth Institute, we will have a mandatory orientation meeting for parents and/or mentors. This will orient you to what the Summer Youth Institute is about and to help you support your youth. On the final day of the Institute, June 24, participants will be presenting what they accomplished over the week and what they hope to bring back to their communities at a ceremony in Jackson, MS, at the Mississippi Museum of Art. We hope you will plan to join us for lunch and the following student presentations.

The Summer Youth Institute is a highly selective Institute, and we are unfortunately only able to take 24 students this year. If your child is not one of those 24, we hope you will stay in touch with the Winter Institute and that your youth will become involved in our other youth programs that take place throughout the school year.

Thank you very much for your interest in the Summer Youth Institute. We hope to see you in June!

Sincerely,

The Winter Institute family