FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Non-Profit Event: South Dekalb Chapter of Mocha Moms, Inc. Launches the First Boys Booked on Barbershop in Lithonia
Local group of mothers join a national initiative to encourage reading among boys living in urban communities.

(Atlanta, GA) October 8, 2008 -- Mocha Moms, Inc., a national support organization for stay-at-home mothers of color, and The National Institute for Literacy, a U.S. federal agency, has launched an innovative partnership to support early literacy and help foster a love for books and reading. The South Dekalb Chapter of Mocha Moms, Inc. will kick-off Boys Booked on Barbershops on Saturday, November 1, 2008 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. The event will be held at Salem Crossing Barbershop 3592 Panola Road, Lithonia, GA 30038

The launch to introduce the “book nook” to the community will include food, entertainment and give-aways. Local celebrities and community leaders have been invited to this monumental event.

“What a great idea to put books in barbershops. We all know that the ability to read directly corresponds to academic achievement and the level of success a child reaches in school. To place books in minority barbershops is a concept unheard of,” says Co-President, Wande Meadows.

About the National Institute for Literacy:
At the Institute, literacy is broadly viewed-it is an individual's ability to read, write, speak in English, compute, and solve problems at levels of proficiency necessary to function on the job, in the family, and in society. Since its creation in 1991, the Institute has worked to help the nation meet some of its current-and emerging-literacy challenges. Working in partnership at the federal level and informed by research, expert advice, and stakeholder input, the Institute collaborates across organizations, constituencies, and disciplines to affect systemic change.

About Mocha Moms:
The South Dekalb Chapter is a local chapter serving mothers and families in the Decatur, Ellenwood, Lithonia, Stone Mountain and Conyers areas.

Mocha Moms is a national 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, not-for-profit group whose mission and purpose is to support, encourage and equip at-home mothers of color. As Mocha Moms, our primary concern is to ensure the health and well-being of our families. However, our concern is also greater than our families, as we recognize that when any child does not have an opportunity to fully develop his/her academic talents and intellectual pursuits, our entire community suffers. Platforms include strengthening marriages and families, promoting self-care, strong educational foundations and volunteerism. Mocha Moms, Inc. welcomes people of all genders, religions, races, educational backgrounds, and income levels. Anyone who supports the mission of Mocha Moms, Inc. is welcome to join. 


Contact:
Keri Herndon-Brown, President, South Dekalb Chapter
South Dekalb Chapter, Mocha Moms, Inc.
Cell: 646-327-6805
Email: southdekalbmochamoms@yahoo.com
http://www.southdekalbmochamoms.com