YMCA camp counselor mentors, educates kids about HBCU experience

HAGERSTOWN, Md. ( DC News Now ) — For many kids growing up in a rural area like Hagerstown, the knowledge of HBCU is low or even nonexistent.

That’s why YMCA counselor Asia Warren has taken it upon herself to educate the youth about all their options when it comes to higher education.

“If you don’t grow up around people who have attended HBCUs or know anyone in your family that went to an HBCU, you’re not going to necessarily know anything about HBCUs,” Warren explained.

This was the reason why Warren decided to use her job at the YMCA to teach and mentor kids in all things related to HBCUs by sparking conversations about it.

“I’ll say I go to an HBCU and they’ll ask what does that mean and I’ll say historically black colleges and universities, ask your mom or ask your dad about it,” Warren said.

Sage Bowers is one of the many kids Warren mentors. Bowers’ mom who also attended an HBCU said the mentorship Warren provides is something that is needed for kids in the area.

“It’s extremely important for Black children to know their options for secondary education because it sets them up for success,” Sia Pinkey said. “Not only financially, emotionally spiritually, but is the next step to your life.”

Warren hopes that mentoring her campers will spark elected officials in the area to provide a bigger space for kids to learn about HBCUs.

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