Community Advocates in Public Housing

Tenant safety patrolDeveloped in response to safety concerns in the building.Patrol members received 10 hours of training.Advocates work in teams of 2 for regularly scheduled shifts.Program has had a significant impact on security in the building.General equivalency diploma preparation programProgram meets weekly and provides material and informal tutoring.Volunteer teacher from the community assists the advocates with the program.Health committeeAddresses residents’ health concerns as well as misconceptions and myths about disease.Organizes and sponsors an annual health fair.Conducted a health assessment survey.Organizes presentations on diabetes, cancer, smoking, healthy lifestyle habits, etc.Spirituality meetingsProgram meets 3 times a week for prayer, readings, and singing.Local minister participates in the program.Social activitiesStrengthen community cohesiveness and social networks.Activities include a monthly potluck dinner, morning coffee club, weekly discussion group, weekly movie time, special events such as Black history celebrations.