Robert Woodson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bob Woodson
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Robert Leon Woodson
April 8, 1937 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Political party | Independent |
| Education | Cheyney University (BS) University of Pennsylvania (MSW) |
Robert Leon Woodson Sr. (born April 8, 1937) is an American civil rights activist and leader. He is known for helping communities improve themselves. He founded and leads the Woodson Center. This organization helps local groups make positive changes in neighborhoods.
In February 2020, Woodson started the center's 1776 Unites campaign. This project shares stories of overcoming challenges in America. It offers a different view of American history.
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Robert Woodson's Early Life and Education
Woodson was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. His father passed away when Robert was young. His mother raised him and his four siblings. In 1954, he left high school to join the Air Force. While serving, he earned his GED. This test shows you have the same knowledge as a high school graduate.
After the Air Force, he went to college. He graduated from Cheyney University in 1962. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics. Later, in 1965, he received a Master of Social Work degree. This was from the University of Pennsylvania.
In 1977, Woodson married Ellen Hylton. They raised four children together. Their son, Robert L. Woodson Jr., passed away in 2003. An award was later named in his honor. This award came from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Robert Woodson's Work in Civil Rights
Robert Woodson has been active in civil rights since 1962. He worked to improve communities. While in graduate school, he joined the civil rights movement. He directed programs for groups like the NAACP. The NAACP is a well-known civil rights organization.
After leaving the NAACP, Woodson moved to Boston. He worked as a social worker there for three years. He helped people in need.
Later, he worked for the National Urban League. He started to create plans to reduce crime. His idea was to strengthen local community groups. These groups were closest to the problems. He continued this work in Washington, D.C. He helped community groups solve their own problems.
Helping Communities Help Themselves
Woodson's main idea is "neighborhood empowerment." This means finding solutions within the community itself. He looks for "social entrepreneurs." These are people in tough neighborhoods who have succeeded. He believes we can learn from their success.
His approach is different from government-led programs. Instead, it focuses on local leaders. These leaders know their communities best.
In 1973, other leaders supported Woodson's ideas. They agreed that focusing on neighborhoods was a better way to reduce crime.
In 1981, Woodson founded the CNE. It is now called the Woodson Center. This center helps neighborhoods find "self-help" solutions. It supports local leaders who are making a difference. The center created "Violence-Free Zones" programs. These programs help reduce violence in schools. They also help young people avoid crime. In 2016, the CNE was renamed the Woodson Center. This honored Robert Woodson Sr. for his important work.
Awards and Recognition
Robert Woodson has received many important awards. These awards recognize his dedication. They celebrate his work in civil rights and community development.
- 1990: MacArthur "Genius" award. This award recognizes creative and talented people.
- 2008: Bradley Prize. This award honors achievements in various fields.
- 2008: Presidential Citizens Medal. This is the second-highest civilian award in the U.S.
- 2008: Social Entrepreneurship Award. This was from the Manhattan Institute.
Books by Robert Woodson
Robert Woodson has written and edited several books. These books share his ideas. They focus on community solutions and American history.
- Red, White, and Black: Rescuing American History from Revisionists and ..., Robert L. Woodson Sr. (editor), 2021.
- Youth Crime and Urban Policy, A View From the Inner City, 1981.
- On the Road to Economic Freedom: An Agenda for Black Progress, Editor Robert L. Woodson, 1987.
- A Summons to Life, Mediating Structures and the Prevention of Youth Crime, 1981.
- The Triumphs of Joseph: How Today's Community Healers are Reviving Our Streets and Neighborhoods, 1998.
- Black Perspectives on Crime and the Criminal Justice System: A Symposium, editor Robert L. Woodson, 1977.
Honorary Degrees
Universities have recognized Robert Woodson's work. They have given him special honorary degrees.
- University of Cincinnati, Ohio: Honorary Doctorate, 2012.
- Colorado Christian University, Colorado: Honorary Doctorate, 2010.
