Frequently Asked Questions

    Why Booker T. Washington?
    Booker T. Washington's exemplary character and ability to turn adversity into advantage by choosing to be better rather than bitter, makes him an ideal choice for the namesake of this organization, dedicated to inspiring young men and women into living, learning, and leading with character and integrity, regardless of the obstacles encountered along the way.

    How many schools are named after Booker T. Washington?
    Today, at least forty five U. S. elementary, middle, high or charter schools (and an academy in Liberia!) proudly bear the name, Booker T. Washington. And prior to the mid-1950's, several, perhaps dozens more, were similarly named but have since been closed. There is also one public charter school in Washington, D.C. named in honor of Booker T.'s spouse, Margaret M. Washington.

    Is the Society a registered 501c(3) non-profit?
    Yes. (Please see our VT Articles of Incorporation) and IRS letter here.

About Booker T. Boosters (open to all concerned and committed adults, business and professional people and local college/university students.)

  What's the difference between a Booker T. Booster Club and the Society?
    The Society is the 'national organization, providing support, organizational structure, liaison between Boosters from different areas and supplies materials and society items and books for Clubs and Chapters. The Booker T. Boosters, on the other hand, provide direct personal and sometimes financial support and encouragement and expertise on a whole range of issues to the area Clubs and Chapters. There's even one-on-one mentoring opportunities for Boosters that can make a real difference in the lives of children in your area.

  How may I join the local area Booker T. Boosters? About Booker T. Clubs (for middle schoolers: 5th-8th grades)

    Why is character 'education' necessary today?
    There was a time when key community institutions of family, faith, and school worked together to develop men and women of good character.
    Yet today, more youths find themselves in broken families, heavily influenced by peer pressures and a pop-culture that more often repudiates - rather than reinforces - constructive values and habits of good character.
    Thus, to break the cycle of negativity, it takes a long term, ongoing approach that will continually motivate young Americans to live, learn and lead in positive ways.

    What's the difference between Booker T. Clubs and character education?
    A Booker T. Club is not your single, stand-alone school's 'character ed' class. It is an integrated after-school and youth group program for young people (age 10-18).
    BT Clubs motivate young Americans in a fun, safe environment and equip them with practical habits and tools that will benefit them for the rest of their lives.

    Are Booker T. Clubs only for black kids?
    Goodness, no! The Society champions inclusivity. Booker T. Clubs build character.

    I want to have a Booker T. Club in my community. What do I do?
    Call us! We have all sorts of materials and will help in any way we can.

    How successful is this program?
    We are about to launch a number of 'pilot' Booker T. Clubs in three to four states in varying venues (public and charter middle schools, church and community youth groups) to determine which venues/approaches works best.

    How does a local Club or Chapter get funded?
    After the initial start-up period, Clubs/Chapters are expected to be independent, self-sustaining units operating under charter from The Society. Local operations and club/chapter service projects are locally funded by members' dues, fundraisers and individual, civic and corporate support.

About Society Chapters (for high schoolers: 9th-12th grades)

About Ambassador Scholarships
    Does the Society award scholarships?
    The Society's Ambassador Scholarship Program was created in 2006 to award post-secondary technical and vocational education scholarships to motivated and qualified high school students. It included an April trip to Washington DC with a parent or mentor to celebrate BTW's birthday and his legacy with banquets, speeches, and panel discussions.
    Note: The Society is not providing scholarships at this time.
    However, as funds permit, we look forward to re-opening the program in the future.