The Village Method  Launches Distance Learning Programs to Support Underserved Students During COVID-19

Empowering youth and families through culturally rooted mentoring, academic support, and family engagement in the San Francisco Bay Area.

January 1, 2021 – San Francisco Bay Area, CA — In response to the educational challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic, The Village Method (TVM) has launched a comprehensive set of distance learning programs aimed at keeping underserved students academically engaged and culturally affirmed. As schools across the country shut down in March 2020, pre-existing opportunity gaps widened dramatically, disproportionately affecting Black and underserved students. Recognizing the urgent need for intervention, TVM acted swiftly to support students and families through innovative, community-rooted solutions.

TVM’s newly launched programs focus on academic mentorship, youth development, family engagement, and Afrocentric enrichment. By centering these elements, TVM ensures that students not only stay on track academically but also feel emotionally supported and culturally connected during a time of unprecedented disruption.

One of TVM’s flagship initiatives, ScholarPrep Nation, prepares students in grades 8 through 12 for college and beyond. The program equips youth with tools to successfully navigate high school academics, the college application process, scholarship opportunities, and career exploration. Research shows that students perform better academically when their families are actively involved, which is why TVM’s programming includes dedicated support for parental and family engagement. Through its Academic Support & Holistic Enrichment (ASHE) program, TVM delivers Afrocentric after-school experiences that help students see themselves reflected positively in education, fostering both academic success and cultural pride.

A Village of Partners Supporting a Common Cause

TVM’s success is deeply rooted in community partnerships that reflect the values and needs of the families it serves. By collaborating with The San Francisco Public Commission, Avila & Associates AECOM, “Back To The Roots”, and Natures Candy Farms (Atlanta), TVM has been able to expose students to hands-on learning in gardening, environmental literacy, and sustainability—areas often overlooked in traditional learning environments.

TVM’s distance learning and community engagement work has also been made possible through the generous support of organizations such as TJMaxx, The Safeway Foundation, The San Francisco Foundation, Oath, East Bay Community Foundation, The Taproot Foundation, and Catchafire. These partners share TVM’s vision of equity, cultural pride, and academic excellence for all students, particularly those from historically underserved communities.

About The Village Method

Founded in 2014 by husband-and-wife team Mark and Mahea Gaskins, The Village Method (TVM) is a Black-led, nonprofit 501(c)(3) grassroots organization dedicated to empowering African American youth and their families. Headquartered in suburban South Alameda County, TVM connects families with culturally affirming programs, local resources, and holistic academic support that nurtures every stage of student growth—from early education through college and into career pathways.

TVM’s vision is built around a sustainable community cycle: empowering students to achieve academic and professional success and return to serve and uplift the next generation. Inspired by the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child and a community to keep the parents sane,” TVM is working tirelessly to build that very village in the San Francisco Bay Area—one student, one family, and one partnership at a time.

In addition to addressing academic needs, The Village Method recognizes the importance of cultural identity and community connection in a student’s overall development. Through its culturally responsive curriculum, TVM creates safe spaces where Black youth can explore their heritage, express themselves confidently, and build lasting relationships with mentors and peers. These intentional experiences not only improve academic outcomes but also foster a sense of pride, belonging, and resilience. As TVM continues to grow its reach, the organization remains committed to uplifting the voices of underserved students and ensuring that every child has access to the resources, representation, and encouragement they need to thrive.

Contact

The Village Method
Phone: (510) 470-1721
Email: Info@thevillagemethod.com
Website: https://thevillagemethod.org