NEIGHBORHOOD AWAKENING PROJECT

The purpose of the program is to

(1) make the young people more aware of their neighborhood

(2) to teach them the leadership skills necessary to take action in improving living conditions in their ......community and

(3) to provide them with opportunities to use these skills in real life scenarios.

In doing so the youth will become more engaged in their community, increase confidence and develop pride in their neighborhood. Simultaneously, the participants will develop a relationship and sense of belonging within the COPO community.

In learning more about their neighborhood the young people will observe

• shortcomings,
• existing services
• providers within the community.

Shortcoming may include: litter, graffiti, unemployment, high school drop outs, poor living conditions, lack of English language skills, lack of information about tenant rights, workers rights and legal protections under the City, State and Federal Laws.

Some existing services they may become aware of include: community services such as translation, immigration and legal aid, tutoring services and clothing collection and distribution centers. Providers may include: COPO, Coney Island Ave Project, public schools and private legal aid providers.

Once the young people become aware of these things and are taught leadership skills they will

1. organize people in addressing some or all of the shortcomings
2. lead the way in bettering the community and
3. inform the community members about the service providers to increase the visibility of existing.services.