The National Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO) program, created in 1978 by the late Vernon Jarrett, and adopted by the NAACP is designed to provide an instrument of to forge connections between adults and high school students and their families through an Olympic-style competition in 27 categories under the headings of Humanities, Sciences, Visual, Performing Arts and Business.

​

Equally important, the local ACT-SO programs have had notable success in recruiting adult mentors who volunteer their time and expertise to youths. They are professionals in the categories they mentor. As such, the adults invest time, energy and resources because of a conviction to the ACT-SO purpose to galvanize adults to fertilize opportunities for youth. These dedicated volunteers meet with students for five months prior to the competition. Through general informational workshops concerning available academic and cultural opportunities, field trips, small group and one to one sessions, mentors provide motivation for excellence.

 

Gold medalists continue on to a national competition that is a prelude to the national NAACP convention. Winners received cash and other prizes.