Our Story, Our Why, Our Purpose

ConsciousNess Youth Expressions, Inc., is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Charlotte, North Carolina. We’re dedicated to transforming the literacy landscape for boys who are often underserved, underacknowledged, and underrecognized.

Rooted in the legacy of a young man who found purpose in the written word, we believe every boy should have the chance to explore his voice, share his story, and see his brilliance reflected through books, creativity, and self-expression.

📌 Our Mission

To cultivate a love of reading and writing in boys who are too often overlooked, while nurturing their social-emotional growth, confidence, and creativity through literacy-centered programs, community journalism, mentorship, and youth-led storytelling.

✨ Our Vision

A world where every boy, regardless of zip code, race, or background, has the tools, support, and opportunity to thrive as a reader, writer, and leader in his community.

📚 What We Do

We create spaces where boys of color can explore language, identity, and leadership through meaningful, culturally responsive experiences:

  • Literacy Programs tailored to their interests, strengths, and learning styles

  • Workshops & Mentorship focused on their writing, emotional awareness, and critical thinking

  • Youth-Led Publications, including a community newspaper and digital platform

  • Cultural Celebrations that affirm their identity, history, and creativity

  • Book Drives & Literacy Access to place diverse books into the hands of young readers

❤️ Why It Matters

Underserved boys in North Carolina and Charlotte face some of the deepest literacy gaps in the nation—not because of a lack of ability, but a lack of access, representation, and encouragement.

  • Only 17% of fourth graders in North Carolina ‘s most underserved communities score at or above reading proficiency, compared to 41% of their peers.

  • In Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, just 8.1% of third graders from underserved populations score at “college- and career-ready” levels by midyear.

These aren’t just statistics. They represent bright, capable boys who deserve to see themselves in stories, feel confident in classrooms, and thrive as readers and leaders.

We’re here to change the narrative—one book, one voice, one boy at a time.