Paper-collage illustration of a young boy walking through an archway toward community elders and gathered family

Who We Are

An African-centered institution dedicated to healthy growth and development.

AROPI is the acronym for Akron Rites of Passage Institute. We are an African-centered 501(c)(3) organization established with the purpose of educating, training, and empowering its members and participants in the African-centered Rites of Passage process, rituals, customs, and practices. AROPI is dedicated to supporting and promoting all aspects of healthy growth and development of individuals, families, and the community.

The Purpose of AROPI Is:

  • To educate, train, and empower its members and participants on the African-centered Rites of Passage process, thoughts, and practice.
  • To support and promote all aspects of the healthy growth and development of individuals, families, and the community of those of African descent in Akron, Summit County, and the surrounding area.
  • To function exclusively for the charitable, educational, and achievement of the scientific goals of reclaiming, restoring, and rebuilding the wholeness and welfare of those of African descent in the above-named geographical area, and by extension those of African descent in the United States of America.
  • AROPI will promote principles of unity and cooperation.
Bese Saka Adinkra symbol

“Bese Saka Yempe Fam; Yete No Soro”

Meaning: It is not easy to get a bunch of kola nuts. One has to strive to reach and pluck them.

Bese Saka is a bunch of cola nuts. It is the Akan Adinkra symbol signifying affluence, power, abundance, plenty, togetherness, and unity. This symbol is indicative of what AROPI represents in the Akron African American Community.

Our mission of an Akron African American Rites of Passage Village Community are families that are sound, vibrant, holistic, humane, safe, self-sustaining, healed, and liberated: historically, culturally, educationally, economically, and spiritually.
AROPI Mission

Akron Rites of Passage Board of Directors, Council of Elders, and team of Rites Facilitators and Trainers have backgrounds that represent a wide range of skills, expertise, and experiences. This includes city, state, county, and local elected officials, retirees from a wide range of public and private sectors of our community, business and nonprofit owners, entrepreneurs, as well as men and women who are currently actively employed. Several of our leadership team members have served and are currently serving on various profit and non-profit boards in the community as well.

Co-Presidents: Terrence Shelton / Angela Higgins