Campaign Focus Area #3: Investing In Youth and Collaboration
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Investment: $290,000

To truly break the cycle of poverty we must impact the next generation. We must also strategically address barriers to self-sufficiency commonly faced by the homeless. While the ministry of BHA helps homeless families today, the 20/20 Vision also takes a long-term view toward breaking the cycle of poverty through these forward looking efforts.

Mentoring Youth at BHA
Since BHA’s inception, we have cared for the children in our midst. However, our curriculum was focused on their mothers. We recognize a tremendous opportunity to impact these youth during a critical period of their developmental years. Therefore, mentoring of youth in our programs is now a priority of our ministry to homeless families. The 20/20 Vision will fund staff coordination of BHA’s growing youth and child care programs, leveraging dozens of skilled volunteers and resources of neighboring organizations.

"I want to thank God for the food.   And our home.   And having a roof over our heads.   And for taking care of us when things were rough."   This simple prayer came from James, who at age 11, already knew life could be rough. But through the ministry at BHA, he also knew that things were looking up.   He had a place to call home at BHA. This night, he shared this prayer before a meal with staff, participants and caring volunteers on Bagwashi Circle support night.   James is connecting with adult mentors, taking part in arts class, learning good nutrition, and developing friendships with his peers.   Like James, we're grateful that God has kept us going through rough times. It's moments like James's prayer when we know that the work and prayers of moms, staff and volunteers are bearing fruit for the next generation.

A Youth Mentoring Collaboration
In 2010, BHA helped to found the Allison Hill Mentoring Partnership with five other partner agencies. Through this collaboration, we are sharing staff, expertise, and facilities to increase the opportunities available to youth in our community. In our first year we launched a joint summer camp, initiated arts and cooking/nutrition classes, and coordinated service projects. Our partners are: The Joshua Group and Farm, Danzante Community Arts Center, Allison Hill Community Ministries, Center for Champions, and Brethren Community Ministries. The 20/20 Vision is inspiring new thinking in how we work together to impact the next generation.

Overcoming Barriers to Self-Sufficiency
BHA was founded by churches partnering in outreach to the homeless. This spirit of collaboration continues as BHA works closely with congregations, human service organizations and other agencies to serve families in crisis. We want to take advantage of these relationships to tackle two challenges many homeless families face:

• How can poor and homeless parents find affordable child care?
• How can they secure reliable employment in a difficult job market?

Through the 20/20 Vision, BHA is exploring creative solutions to ensure our families will have access to affordable child care and quality employment placement. Should specific initiatives be developed, future funding may be required. This funding is not part of the 20/20 Vision Campaign as we want solutions to be driven by the study process.

How Can You Invest In The Next Generation?

$24,000
Funds youth mentoring program for ten youth for one year.

$12,000
Provides curriculum, oversight and supplies for youth programming classes for one year.

$6,000
Funds mentor recruitment and training for BHA youth mentoring program for one year.

$1,800
Helps four teens in BHA develop educational goal plans.

$1,000
Provides a comprehensive parenting course to one family.

Through these expansion efforts, we will be able to adapt our services to the diverse needs of the homeless families we serve. Up to 70 women, men and children each day will find hope through the ministry of BHA.

Invest in the 20/20 Vision:

The official registration and financial information of Brethren Housing Association
may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll free, within
Pennsylvania, 1.800.732.0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.

Revised: 5/1/2011 1:54:26 AM