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Blog Post – Thursday, August 25, 2016
Possible online services disruption due to Internet related outage
Blog Post - August 25, 2016
AmeriCorps NCCC Serves East Saint Louis
Operation AmeriCorps East St. Louis was established in July 2015 to serve the students of East St. Louis School District 189 during in school and out of school times to improve academic outcomes for youth. The program initially began with 20 full-time AmeriCorps State & National members providing mentoring and tutoring activities, and a team of six AmeriCorps VISTA members working to expand career exploration and pathways for students. This summer we were thrilled to add the third stream of service, the AmeriCorps NCCC team from Vinton, IA.
The NCCC team arrived June 6, 2016 to begin their eight week assignment. Because there was such a need and demand for their services members were tasked to serve with multiple community organizations throughout the city. Some of the host sites included the following:
Rebirth (R3): Members worked to rehab multiple properties in the area that had been dilapidated and abandoned. Because of their hard work, one home is nearing completion and is slated to become affordable housing for a very fortunate family.
East St. Louis Park District: Members worked to restore some of the former beauty to Jones Park, clearing flower beds, cleaning debris, trash, and preparing the site to host a summer youth program. One of the hallmarks of Jones Park is a fountain that had been neglected for years because of lack of funding. Prior to the NCCC team’s arrival the fountain was filled with murky water and in dire need of attention. Members were able to clear the trash and sediment from the fountain. Now the park can move forward with its plans to restore the fountain.
House of Miles (HOME): Members spent a week assisting in the final demolition phase to restore the House of Miles, the former residence of Miles Dewey Davis III, the most prominent black trumpeter of the century. Upon completion HOME will provide avenues of musical discovery to children and visitors of all ages, including Interactive exhibits, educational experiences and innovative programs, both cultural and historical, celebrate our past, explore our present and enrich our future.
Lawns for Learning: Members participated in a targeted community cleanup effort to transform the community of Washington Park and areas surrounding JJK Community Center.
Katherine Dunham House: Members worked to clean, declutter, paint and prepare the studio that will host students participating in dance workshops.
