Project Summary

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Slavic Village neighbors will work together to build a new gathering place, The Mosaic Center, to revitalize their declining neighborhood. Sharing time and talent will bridge the generation and culture gap that currently threatens its very existence.

About me

I am 59 years old and have spent many years working with economically disadvantaged youth and adults. I spent 15 years developing workplace success programs. Through the years I thought about making a lasting difference. I believe that families need to change together and that everyone needs to contribute to feel useful. I have always been able to bring people together from the time I was a little girl when I dragged all the kids into the garage to play school. I have shared my ideas with others, especially with Ron and his friends in Slavic Village, including the neighborhood priest. So many people like my friend love Slavic Village and it breaks my heart to see their faces when they talk about the gangs keeping people locked in their houses in fear. It has a strong history of using volunteers for event such as the Harvest Festival or parish events. Danny Kane got people together to turn a parking lot into a park. Jim attends all the neighborhood meetings and is a frequent volunteer in church. Good things have already begun. Public officials have shown some interest and will be invited to participate. Many people who have moved away come back to visit and would be willing to support a rebirth of the neighborhood. Years ago the Slavic Village Foundation was formed by committed volunteers. A new public golf course has just opened along with a beautiful park that has wonderful trails for walking or bike riding. It can happen.