The newsletter I decided to receive was from an organization called Harlem Children's Zone. This organization is taking on the enormous issue of poverty that surrounds their community. This organization recognizes that poverty is not the only problem many of these families face. They also encounter crime, drugs, inadequate places to live and schools, and substandard health care. This organization strives to help children as they grow, and as they enter the career world. It is filled with many programs that include each age group, and results show enormous gains due to the passion behind their mission. While I have not received my first newsletter, I did observe the latest news on the website. One of the stories got my attention because it discusses something many of our children go through. Many children especially those in poverty stricken communities face many "adult like" issues and stressors at such a young age. Many times they are not given the chance to simply "be a kid." One speaker identifies this community as not only a "food desert", but a "recreation desert". This story announces the opening of the Harlem Armory, which is a facility that exposes children to a variety of sports, clubs, and activities. It is in this facility children are able to be a part of clubs and extracurricular activities seen in many suburb schools, and through these activities children grow socially, emotionally, and physically in motor skills. It simply given them the opportunity to "be a kid" regardless of the stressors outside the doors.
The main thing you see throughout this website is an array of programs designed to address the big issue of poverty in Harlem. I was in complete awe of all the wonderful programs they have set in place that serve EVERY child. The mission this organization has is fantastic, but their passion for these children and determination to help them succeed is even greater. Seeing all of the news conferences the President of Harlem Children's Zone has been a part of, and recognition they have received even from President Obama displays their mission to so many outside their community. It also is a model in what I would hope to be more organization like Harlem Children's Zone around the country.
Jo: I am so excited! We selected the same organization! I absolutely love Harlem Children’s Zone. The resources that they provide for children and families are astronomical. My favorite resource is The Baby College. I think it is very beneficial to expectant mothers and unborn children. I also have so much admiration and respect for the CEO and president of the organization, Geoffrey Canada. Have you read his article on poverty? It is a must read! Thank you for sharing your post?
ReplyDeleteI think it is awesome that we picked the same organization especially since our school systems sound so similiar. I love that this program focuses not only on children but the community as well. As of today, I have not received a newsletter yet but hopefully we will soon. The article that I looked at this week highlights some of the programs that this organization provides such as free cooking classes or homework help time.
ReplyDeleteThis organization sounds amazing! So much help and education for so many. It is so important to look outside our own comfort zones and this organizations does just that. This world would be so much nicer if more people looked outside their own communities and were not so closed minded. Thank you for you informational post.
ReplyDeleteI LOVE the Harlem Children's Zone. The comprehensive services that they provide to CHILDREN, THE FAMILY...THE HOME overall are absolutely amazing. As an early childhood professional, Geoffrey Canada is my mentor. What this man has managed to develop, produce and lead in Harlem is short of a revolution! I am so glad you selected the Harlem Children's Zone. Since I was already familiar and subscribe to the site, I chose a different organization.
ReplyDeleteHello Jo,
ReplyDeleteI am learning about so many wonderful organizations that truly want to help our youth. Children need time to play, along with their many adult responsibilites some have. It is sad, but this is the real world. The Harlem Armory is going to be a safe haven and a place where children are valued for who they are. I wish more children could have the same opportunity! Wow! Thanks for sharing!
Christine M