The Corner Book Club

Read for Change

The Common Ground Foundation's "Read For Change" program addresses the national problem of illiteracy among urban youth. In an effort to encourage and inspire youth to read and to use the power of their voice, the Common Ground Foundation has launched The Corner, a national online book club. This platform provides youth across the country with an opportunity to discuss current reading selections, while fostering the development of critical thinking skills.

The Corner is an interactive way for 8th-12th grade students to learn and talk about reading materials that are relevant to their life. Each month our team of professional consultants chooses a book of the month that conveys messages of tolerance, compassion and non-violent expressions of achieving social justice. Book club members are encouraged to blog* about the selected material, discuss the title with one another, recommend other books they like and submit questions for the celebrity artist of the month interview.

The celebrity spotlight interviews will focus on artists' favorite books, why reading is important to them and issues that teens face today. The questions come right from our youth members.

Each year the Common Ground Foundation will sponsor a "Common Ground Challenge" writing assignment. Winners will have an opportunity to win a college scholarship as a first prize award. Through exposure and participation in educational endeavors, The Common Ground Foundation creates a positive atmosphere for learning and understanding.

Mission Statement

The Common Ground Foundation is dedicated to the empowerment and development of urban youth in the United States www.commongroundfoundation.org.

Vision Statement

The Common Ground Foundation was created by Hip Hop artist, actor and children's book author Lonnie Rashid Lynn, known as "Common". Common's social-conscience message is the cornerstone of the Foundation's vision and serves as an inspiration for equality, opportunity and hope among youth in underserved communities. The Foundation is committed to empowering youth in urban neighborhoods and providing life skills needed to achieve their dreams.