History

Started in 1996 as a way to send a positive message to African-American youth in Tacoma-Pierce County, the Elizabeth Wesley Youth Merit Incentive Award Program is expanding each year. The message is simple: Striving for excellence in school is cool. There's nothing wrong with wanting a college education or working hard to get a good paying job.

The founders of the program realized that encouraging and rewarding student achievement is the best way to ensure it will thrive. During the program's first year, five students received awards. Since then, over 1000 students have been awarded and encouraged by this incentive program.

Elizabeth Wesley

The program's namesake, Elizabeth Wesley, moved to Tacoma in 1945 where she and her husband joined Bethlehem Baptist Church. In 1953, they helped organize Shiloh Baptist Church. Mother Wesley's commitment to children is remembered by the entire community. This program honors her legacy by rewarding our youth for academic achievement and community service.
 

History