Neighborhood Centers are innovative and proactive in their approach to creating stronger communities. While each center is distinctive – based upon the demographic makeup and unique needs of the surrounding neighborhoods – each has developed programs that are organized around six common focus areas:
Innovations in Early Childhood Development
- Quality childcare that prepares kids for kindergarten
- Early intervention for children with behavioral issues
- Short and long-term crisis care for overwhelmed parents
Innovations in Youth and Teen Development
- After school, summer and school-success programs
- Mentoring, career counseling, support groups, technology training and college scholarships
- Community service projects and volunteer opportunities for teens
Innovations in Adult Education and Skill Development
- Computer classes and access to technology
- Legal services and tax preparation
- Financial literacy and family loans
Innovations in Civic Engagement
- Leadership training
- Partnerships with neighborhood-based organizations
- New immigrant support and advocacy
Innovations in Essential Resources
- Help locating housing and understanding tenants’ rights and responsibilities
- Food shelves and community cafés
- Family violence prevention and advocacy
Innovations in Wellness
- Family healthcare advocacy, including health insurance enrollment, medical interpretation and translation
- Community health education, classes and workshops for people of all ages
- Exercise classes, athletic teams and walking clubs
