Member of the Month: African Soul International

As we open the toolbox to all African countries, one Grassroots.org nonprofit already stands out for its dedication to African-based principles, art and culture.

For 12 years, Cleveland-based African Soul International has used everything from drum circles to West African Dance performances to expose youth to African culture and professional development opportunities. Ultimately, the organization seeks solutions to educational and societal problems in inner city communities, said Founder and President Jewel Jackson.

African Soul was one of the first members to receive free web design, and Jackson said that online presence allows the nonprofit to touch diverse audiences.

“We now get calls from all over the country,” Jackson said. “We are able to connect ourselves to people that otherwise we would not have had access to without that electronic presence.”

In the end, it’s all about the kids.

“It’s a great level of exposure and professionalism to have a great website that is worth more than what we have to pay at this time,” Jackson said. “It has given us the time to really focus on quality and the development of young people in a professional way”