Rochad McCollough and Aliyse Watkins are members of the “Mack 8”. Rochad is a 7th grade student at Butzel Jr. High School. He had a lot of trouble with his classwork and homework. Rochad stated that once he left school, it seemed like everything the teachers taught him just disappeared, until he met Roland and Rolando Foster. Roland and Rolando Foster are two remarkable young men who volunteered and went though the Pro-Literacy Detroit Basic Literacy Workshop. They are high school students, which makes the younger students feel comfortable and at ease. Also, they have become role models to the students. Rochad comes to every session. His tutors have taught him ways to retain his studies and to advance them by challenging himself. In other words, “taking his studies to the next level”. They have also taught him about the solar system and have incorporated science projects into Rochad’s curriculum. Rochad’s report card has improved. He is proud of himself.

Aliyse Watkins is a 9th grade student at Denby Senior High School. She wants to go to college and become a Pediatrician. Aliyse knew that to achieve her future goals, her attitude about school had to change. Her tutors have helped Alyise remain more focused by helping her understand that she is the most important part of her own learning and that if she would focus on her studies, she would open her mind to a world of knowledge. Aliyse’s last report card showed great improvements in math and science. It has also changed Aliyse’s attitude about school and other things in life.

Recently, Samaritan Missionary Baptist Church celebrated a Ground-Breaking Ceremony. By the year 2004, a larger wing will be added to the church for the children’s After-School project.