Youth summer program ends

Committee announces continued outreach to youth

ABES News Services

CAMBRIDGE -- An estimated crowd of over 100 turned out Monday at the Empowerment Center in Cambridge for Family Night which marked the conclusion of this year's Summer Youth Enrichment Program sponsored by the Pine Street Committee (PSC).

"As you can see, the program has been well received and I think that our kids have learned a lot," said PSC president William Jackson, Jr.

He said finances for such programs are becoming more difficult to secure. "As taxpayers and citizens we need to keep programs like this intact. It's going to be very necessary that you contact your elected officials next year in advance and let them know that these summer programs work, our kids learn, and stay out of trouble," he said.

Volunteer summer program director Octavene Saunders expressed thanks to city commissioners Donald Sydnor (Ward 2), Gilbert Cephas (Ward 3) and La-Shon Brooks (Ward 4) for their support, and said the PSC in the future would be seeking to own the Empowerment Center. She said the only reason the PSC did not own the building was because the group had not previously been a 501 (c) (3) organization.

She also noted the support of the Dorchester County Council which, after a phone poll last month, agreed to provide funding for the program.

Councilwoman Effie Elzey (District 5) said, "We are so glad to see so many children take advantage of what Octavene has provided."

Council President William Nichols (District 2) said he thanked Councilwoman Elzey because she strongly supported the program. "For the thirteen years I have been sitting beside this lady, I will tell you that you cannot find a better person when it comes down to the kids and advocating things for the youth for this county.

"Stick around and watch her. She does things under the radar, but it gets done," he said. He continued, "It takes everyone to contribute to a program like this to make it work. You are not going to get anywhere without the support of everyone. Everyone sitting in this room today, keep on pushing what you are pushing for and you will succeed."

"We put a lot of emphasis on building the city and the county, but what we are looking at is what we are building the city and the county for, and that is our youth," said Commissioner Sydnor. "No amount of money could compensate what these people have done with this group of young people. This is our future. We have only contributed a small part of the hard work that they have done."

"I am a strong advocate for children and I feel this is the least that we can do in the city of Cambridge. It is only a small part of what the city should do, and in the future we hope to be able to do more for our youth for they are our future," Commissioner Brooks said.

Commissioner Cephas was not present for the earlier portion of Family Night.

It was announced that all three commissioners were personally donating funds for the program.

Mayor Cleveland Rippons was also present for Family Night.

Parents and grandparents present lauded the program.

"I think the program is terrific. It gives the kids something to do during the summer. They get to learn, along with other activities," said Glenda Brannock, who had three grandchildren participate.

Her 10 year old grandson, Tyjayh Elliott, said, "I liked doing the art projects and learning different things." In regard to the interaction with Cambridge City Police, he said, "They're pretty cool, especially with the dog. It was amazing how he could sniff out drugs."

Danny Johnson, who volunteered at times, said he had two daughters in the program. "They will be back next year," he said.

Volunteers and supporters were recognized during the event which included musical selections and a fashion show by Ms. Stephanie's (Stephanie Brown) Butterflies, as well as a dinner, door prizes, and awards.

Though the summer program has concluded, the PSC is forging ahead by partnering with the Dorchester Arts Center to offer free art lessons for 6 weeks, about 1 to 2 hours per week, for children 6 to 11. At least 12 children are needed for the program to be established. Free Spanish lessons for adults are also planned by the PSC.

Those interested in either program should visit the Empowerment Center at 615-B Pine Street for information, or call (410) 228-2250. Dates for the art program will be announced once it is ascertained enough children are interested.

Free back-to-school haircuts will be also be offered at the center from noon to 2 p.m. August 25.