It Takes a Village: Introducing Our Neighborhood’s 1K Academy
A vision rooted in love, a brother’s legacy, and a neighborhood coming together—this is the story of 1K Academy.
Our neighborhood’s free after-school program officially opened on October 20 at Russell Memorial CME Church, with more than 40 children signed up and a growing waiting list. Founded by Frank Smith, 1K Academy brings together Russell Memorial CME Church, Grant Street Community, BLK South, and Monument of Faith Church’s Social Justice and Outreach Team to support children and families in our neighborhood.
Together, we’re helping bring Frank’s vision to life: a welcoming place where children can learn, build relationships, explore their gifts, and dream big.
A Brother’s Legacy, a Neighborhood’s Future
At the heart of 1K Academy is the relationship between Frank and his late twin brother, William, whose nickname was “1K.”
Frank named the program in William’s honor, carrying his brother’s memory into a space dedicated to the next generation. The name also holds an invitation for every child who walks through the doors: dream beyond 100. Aim for 1,000.
Through 1K Academy, Frank is turning love and remembrance into an ongoing investment in our neighborhood’s children. We’re grateful for his vision, leadership, and commitment—and for the opportunity to help build something meaningful alongside him.
Bringing the Space to Life
Before children could gather for homework, activities, and new friendships, the space itself needed care.
Frank and William’s friends and family, church members, neighbors, and volunteers came together to help transform the basement of Russell Memorial CME Church into a welcoming place for students. People gave their time, energy, resources, and love to prepare the space and get it ready to open.
That work deserves celebration. Every person who helped prepare a room, paint, organize, or lend a hand contributed to making this vision possible.
Thank you to Russell Memorial CME Church for opening its doors and making room for our neighborhood’s children, and to everyone who helped carry the preparations across the finish line.
What Happens at 1K Academy?
1K Academy meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2–6 p.m. at Russell Memorial CME Church, 703 S. Alston Avenue, Durham.
The free program offers elementary students tutoring and homework help, culturally responsive enrichment, arts and crafts, gardening, sports, recreation, and relationships with caring adult mentors. Transportation is available from Burton and C.C. Spaulding elementary schools.
We want children to have a place where they feel known, supported, and encouraged—and where families know their neighbors are invested in their children’s growth.
Help Us Keep the Village Growing
Opening the doors is only the beginning. Sustaining 1K Academy will take people who can show up consistently and help meet practical needs.
Right now, we need support with:
Meals: Preparing, providing, or sponsoring full meals for approximately 20–40 children on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Tutoring and mentorship: Helping with homework, encouraging students, and building relationships over time.
Activities and enrichment: Sharing skills in art, gardening, recreation, and other areas that help children learn and explore.
Transportation: Helping coordinate and support students’ transportation needs.
Financial support: Contributing toward meals, supplies, and the ongoing costs of the program.
If you’d like to get involved, reach out to Frank Smith or connect with us through Grant Street Community or BLK South. We’ll help you find a way to contribute that fits the program’s needs.
We’re proud to stand alongside Frank in honoring William’s memory and building this neighborhood effort together. Thank you to the families trusting us with their children, the volunteers showing up, and the churches and neighbors making room for what’s possible.
It takes a village—and that village includes you.
