Low literacy rates affect a lot of underserved communities in the United States. Aware of the ongoing problem, the team of the hit podcast, Appraise the Phrase, has funded and worked on a new literacy initiative named Raise the Bar. Mario Hines and Twenty Williams, the creators of Appraise the Phrase, began their literacy program in Washington DC. Hines’ goal with Raise the Bar initiative is to partner with all schools in the D.C. area to raise literacy rates which he believes will have a direct impact on the rise in youth violence the city is dealing with.

The Appraise The Phrase Show successfully hosted its first-ever live game show event.  “The Writings On The Wall: A Celebration of Colloquialisms and Culture,” was a free family fun community night, brought to life by Sincerely Nicole Media and its dedicated team.