About C.R.A.F.T.
Established in 1974 and incorporated in 1975, for over 30 years, the Center for Re-Creation And Family Training Organization (C.R.A.F.T., Inc.) has adhered to its mission of developing and implementing programs directed towards building a stronger, more productive African-American community.
The C.R.A.F.T. Organization primarily serves the youth and families of the Pembroke/Hopkins Park area of Illinois. The community has one of the highest poverty rates in the state.
The residents of the community suffer from all of the issues that are companions of a poverty stricken community-drugs, violence and the accompanying abuses. This poisonous environment has to be counterbalanced with a positive option for the community, so C.R.A.F.T. offers that alternative.
Current Programs
The C.R.A.F.T. organization currently offers the following programs:
1. Eagles (Mentoring)
2. Student Adoption & Assistance
3. Summer Enrichment
In addition to the above programs, C.R.A.F.T. awards the “Hezekiah Brady, Jr. Scholarship” annually to a deserving student.
C.R.A.F.T.’s History
A Quick Look Backwards
AfterSchool/Summer Day Camp
In 1974, C.R.A.F.T. started its after-school and summer day camp programs. The After-school Program held evening Bible classes, recreation, group discussions, Black history and etiquette classes 3 days a week for students in grades 3-12 . The summer day camp program expanded these activities into daylong activities that included weekly cultural trips.
C.I.D.A.L.
The Christian Institute for Developing Altruistic Leaders (CIDAL) was the educational arm of C.R.A.F.T. and it was started in 1975. CIDAL strongly emphasized Christian leadership and altruism. The elementary level began in 1988 with K-2 and the 3rd grade was added a year later. CIDAL closed its doors in 1990 due to lack of finances. Prior to that all 26 high school graduates attended college.
C.R.A.F.T.’s Timeline
1974-The C.R.A.F.T. organization was established.
1974-C.R.A.F.T. started its after-school and summer day camp programs.
1975-The C.R.A.F.T. organization was incorporated.
1975-C.I.D.A.L. , the educational arm of C.R.A.F.T. , was formed.
1990-C.I.D.A.L. closed its doors due to a lack of finances.
1991-Eagles Program was started to focus on mentoring elementary students.
1991-S.A.P. and S.A.F. were started to assist students in their preparation for and pursuit of post-secondary education.
2005-Hezekiah Brady Jr. Scholarship was established.
