Who we are

Listen to Our Future is a grassroots organization founded in June 2020, inspired by social justice movements and motivated by the effects of COVID-19 on the education system for students in under-resourced communities. Our founders, Lillian Barkes and Brandon Street created a BIPOC-led 501(c)(3) organization to educate youth and allow them to be change-makers in their community.

"I love working with LTOF, because it provides an opportunity to make meaningful connections with students that could have lasting impacts on us and the students for years to come. We get to work with students one on one or in small groups, which develops great relationships. I love seeing the students' confidence and abilities grow over the time that we get to work with them."

-Karley, Tutor

"COVID-19 has been telling on how far our students fell behind. We knew we needed to help with the loss of academic time and Listen to Our Future was what we needed. We wish we could have them every day, but once a week we've seen them gain confidence and feel cared about. Our students love going there for that extra support and individual attention. The tutors are caring and understanding."

-EDGE, Program Partner

"I enjoy the sense of purpose one gets from helping our future grow and learn. I like the team I work with and their dedication inspires me to strive to be better."

-Layth, Tutor

"Listen to Our Future is one of the biggest reasons that our MTSS data soared this year! Students made great gains in Reading Foundations in grades K-2. This was evident in the classroom, MOY/BOY Benchmarks."

-William Penn 49, Program Partner