 |
 |
|
|
 |
Overview
People don't just live singly or in family groups; they also live in communities, and communities can help -- or hinder -- an individual or family's efforts to achieve self-sufficiency.
Communities encompass more than the people who live there. They include businesses that are both merchants and employers; the physical appearance and function of land and buildings; and the social, religious, educational, health and civic services that contribute to -- or detract from -- a community's "quality of life."
Blighted or vacant properties... strewn or uncollected trash... an unskilled or unmotivated work age population...disaffected business owners... absentee landlords...lack of transportation or accessible quality child care...uninvolved residents... apathetic government officials... are just some of the possible negative factors that can send a community spiraling downwards.
Community Revitalization
The keystone of the Commission's community revitalization efforts is its 10-year partnership with the City of Harrisburg and M&T Bank, which is contributing one million dollars over 10 years to improve Harrisburg's South Allison Hill, the city's most ethnically diverse and second poorest neighborhood.
The Commission also works closely with that neighborhood's residents, homeowners and business owners in ensuring the delivery of city services, demolishing "eyesores," mapping assets, restoring vacant lots to usable and attractive properties, pursuing absentee landlords, and improving communications and interactions with police. An ongoing project with Penn State brings landscape and architectural design students to the neighborhood to work with residents to design and work on community improvement projects.
Most recently, the Commission completed its first economic development project -- the redevelopment of the corner of S 13th and Derry Streets, into Mt. Pleasant Plaza. The Plaza, managed by the CAC's business partner, In Suk Pak, is providing a new laundromat, tax preparation services, and a retail clothing store. The $1.3 million project used $250,000 in City DCBG funds, $431,000 in state DCED funds, and a $1,133,000 loan to Mr. Pak by M&T Bank.
The Commission has recently acquired the branch bank building on the opposite corner, and anticipates undertaking an $800,000 renovation to convert it into an office building with off-street parking.
Workforce Development
An essential aspect of a community's health is its business climate. It's a pretty simple formula. Residents need good jobs and good merchants. Businesses need good employees and good customers.
The Community Action Commission is working to contribute to this formula for economic success through its Success Academy This workforce development program addresses the preparation and retention of "new sector" employees who, for socio-economic or cultural reasons, are new to or unsophisticated about the workplace. Currently the Success Academy has computer training for employees in academic enrichment and English as a Second Language; employee training in basic, "soft" skills; and training for front-line supervisors who work with this new population.
The Academy also offers employee development staff to help new sector employees meet their employers' expectations.
For more information on the Community Action Commission's community development services, phone (717) 232-9757 or e-mail: community development@cactricounty.org
|
|
|
 |
|
