
A Summer of Learning, Leadership & Opportunity
HYPE Freedom School offers a six-week summer literacy and leadership experience for scholars ages 6–18 in Houston’s Sunnyside and South Park communities.
Through engaging books, culturally affirming activities, leadership development, and hands-on experiences, scholars strengthen their reading skills, build confidence, and discover new opportunities.
Our college-age Servant Leader Interns serve as mentors and role models, building lasting connections with scholars that extend beyond the summer.
Each week, HYPE scholars receive a book to add to their home libraries, encouraging reading beyond the summer. Our program also supports scholars’ social and emotional development through activities that build confidence, strengthen relationships, and encourage personal growth.
Summer 2027 Registration
Registration for HYPE’s Summer Literacy Program will open in March 2027. Program dates, locations, and enrollment information will be available on our Scholar Registration page.
What We Do
HYPE’s work extends beyond the summer. Through literacy, leadership development, mental health services, and family engagement, we create opportunities for scholars and families to learn, grow, and thrive.
- Literacy & Leadership
Through summer programming, Book Buddies, and other literacy experiences, scholars strengthen reading skills, build confidence, and develop leadership skills. - Mental Health & Wellness
HYPE provides year-round access to counseling, mental health resources, and supportive services that help scholars and families navigate challenges and strengthen their well-being. - Family & Community Engagement
Through family events, workshops, and ongoing engagement, HYPE creates opportunities for parents and caregivers to access resources, build relationships, and take an active role in their children’s learning.
Youth Leadership & Workforce Development
HYPE creates opportunities for high school and college-age young people to gain paid work experience, develop leadership skills, and explore career pathways. Through mentorship, professional development, and hands-on experience, young people build skills that prepare them for future opportunities.
Year-Round Learning & Family Engagement
- Book Buddies: Elementary scholars receive additional literacy support through reading activities and mentorship from high school and college interns.
- Family Engagement: Events, workshops, and gatherings create opportunities for families to access resources, connect with one another, and participate in their scholar’s learning.
- Mental Health Support: Scholars, families, and staff have access to counseling and mental health resources.
- Community Literacy Events: Activities such as Lit on the Lawn and Freedom Fridays bring literacy and learning experiences into the community.
HYPE’s Impact
| 2026 Result | Description |
|---|---|
| 660+ | Children and young people reached through HYPE programming and partnerships |
| 73% | Scholars assessed who maintained or improved their reading performance during summer 2026 |
| 44 | College-age Servant Leader Interns employed during summer programming |
| 6 | HYPE summer program sites |
Join Us for Summer 2027
Registration for HYPE Freedom School’s summer 2027 program opens in March 2027. We look forward to welcoming returning and new scholars for another summer of literacy, leadership, and learning.
Visit our Scholar Registration page for updates on program dates, locations, and enrollment.
