From left are Dr. Peter Watts, CEO/co-founder; Raymond Johnson, fellow; Ereon Nash, fellow; Freddie Leslie, Jr., fellow; and Dr. Didi Watts, co-founder and trainer. (Joshua Blake-Ham)

In honor of Black History Month, the Watts of Power Foundation is embarking on a transformative Black Church Tour to reignite the historic role of the Black church in advocating for public education and empowering future generations.

Led by Rev. Dr. Peter Watts, Jr., co-founder and CEO, the nonprofit aims to inspire young Black men to become educators and enter the classroom, addressing the urgent need for representation and leadership in schools. Through its signature program, The Village Initiative, Watts of Power supports aspiring Black male educators by providing mentorship, professional development, housing, and job placement to help them jumpstart their teaching careers and make a meaningful impact in their communities.

The Black Church Tour seeks to foster partnerships between churches and public schools by hosting workshops, worship services, and conversations that emphasize the church’s unique ability to equip young people for success.

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The tour will visit Park Hills Community Church in Los Angeles on Sunday, Feb. 2; Word of Encouragement Church in Hawthorne and Holy Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Compton on Sunday, Feb. 9; Christ Second Baptist Church and Light & Life Church, both in Long Beach, on Sunday, Feb. 16; and Greater Zion Church Family in Compton on Sunday, Feb. 23.

“The Black church has historically been a catalyst for transformation in education, advocating for schools and providing critical resources during times of need,” said Watts.

“Through this tour, we hope to inspire faith leaders to see their congregations as untapped reservoirs of educational empowerment and encourage young Black men to answer the call to lead in the classroom.”

The Watts of Power Foundation believes education is the civil rights issue of our time. By renewing the synergy between churches and schools, the foundation hopes to create mentorship opportunities, literacy programs, and safe spaces for youth, while addressing systemic challenges in education. This initiative not only honors the church’s historic legacy but also ensures it continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of African American children.

For more information about the Black Church Tour or to get involved, visit http://www.wattsofpowerfoundation.org or email admin@wattsofpowerfoundation.org.