Another Level Training Academy's Founder and CEO, Nia Hodge (center) with Edison High School Football Student Athletes who came to serve at Webster Elementary School. Photo: Courtesy of the organization.
Another Level Training Academy
African-American hair braiding
About the Organization
African-American hair braiding is more than just a hairstyle; it represents a cultural legacy and a celebration of African heritage within the African American community.” – Another Level Training Academy
Another Level Training Academy (ALTA) Fresno is a community-based advocacy program dedicated to promoting social justice, reducing recidivism, and advocating for racial justice, gender equity, and mental health. Their organization provides mentorship, workshops, support, and accountability through soft skill training, vocational and educational services, goal tracking, and specialized accountability programs. Their staff is certified in Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and offers preventative and mitigation services to individuals at higher risk for adverse developmental outcomes due to trauma, systematic oppression and poverty. Their mission is to empower communities to increase their social capital by partnering with stakeholders and helping them obtain tangible assets to achieve communal and self-actualization.
Living Cultures Grant
2023
Braiders Academy
ALTA, with hairstylist Nia Hodge Grier as main instructor, will facilitate sessions to teach youth and young professionals the traditional African-American art form of braiding. Participants will not only learn more about an art form which can help them economically, but also about their culture and identity.
