04-27-09 Community Relations Committee

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Community Relations Committee Meeting Apri129, 2009 Page 2 • Sonnyvilla has developed a synergistic approach of using professionals, educators, social and church sectors who collaboratively implement a variety of community enhancement programs for youth • Each home is within walking distance of Brown and open to youth grades 5-8 during "at risk" hours of 3-7 p.m. weekdays and on the week ends • Sonnyvilla's Core Values include "character building, hope, relationships, education, service and teamwork • ~ In the Fall of 2008 Sonnyvilla and The Crossing Educational Center launched "Extreme Home Rehab Program" which provide students with learning skills about gutting an entire home, plumbing & electrical, painting and landscaping from professionals in each of the building trades • The Crossing Educational Center donated computers for each of the Homes located near Brown which were opened • Key is being in the neighborhoods and hope to duplicate this in other neighborhoods in crisis so that it will stimulate education and economic development Mr. Martino then introduced Peter J. Agostino, a local attorney and Sonnyvilla Board Member to give a few remarks. Mr. Agostino stated that he believes that schools are directly related to a city's growth and businesses. Often because of the lack of parental support, students need assistance. Sonnyville seeks to be part of the solution to put in place what is missing in neighborhoods with at risk students. The Sonnyvilla homes are located right in the community and are staffed with people who care and give guidance, work with each student on computers, provide meals, structure, support and guidance. Dr. Karyle Green, Brown Intermediate Center Principal, stated that Sonnyville is definitely needed. She noted that too many of the Brown students lack guidance in behavior skills, motivation; few come from 2-parent households with many having one parent incarcerated or disabled. Many of the students are mobile; it is hard to contact parents and when the students leave school they do not have support. Brown IC does not have transportation available for after school programs and does not have adequate funding. Sonnyville is filling the void since students need to be part of something constructive. Dr. Green stated that they need consistency, motivation and hope. They are trying to prevent gangs, graffiti, thefts; drugs. This school year has bee "wonderful" in light of the consent and waiver program which Sonnyville has to permit students to participate. Mr. Martino noted that each of the home are identified by color, as being for boys; and others for girls. Houses of H.O.P.E. provide: