Summer 2016 BREAKTHROUGH 545 East Lincoln Highway Coatesville, PA 19320 (610) 380-0200 Coatesvilleyouthinitiative.org

Coatesville Youth Initiative CONNECT: Coatesvilleyouthinitiative_ @CYI19320 IN THIS ISSUE: we are 3 Letter from Executive Director

Chaya Scott Executive Director 5 Breakthrough Leader Breakfast Jarvis Berry Associate Director of Data & Evaluation 6 Game Changers Youth Council COATESVILLE Sam Brown* Program Assistant 8 ServiceCorps Lula Defersha Prevention Manager Cherry Grubb Office Manager 12 Brandywine Trek Lindsay Myers Development Director 14 Waste Oil Recyclers Megan Schmierer Parental Engagement Coordinator How many times have you heard someone say, “There is nothing to do in Coatesville” Aja Thompson* Program Assistant 18 Beautification and Prevention or “Nothing good happens in Coatesville.” When I hear comments like this, I want to shout Samaria Turner* ServiceCorps Associate Coordinator 22 Community Collaborations from the rooftops...“Coatesville is the place to be! Let me tell you why!”

26 Celebrating Families I am a proud resident of Coatesville and parent of an 8th grader at North Brandywine Middle School CYI 2016 BOARD OF DIRECTORS and 9th grader at the 9/10 Center. What makes Coatesville special? It’s the way people support and Thomas Belmont, Jr. Chairman love one another, the stories they tell about this tremendous city, and the incredible sense of pride! Shannan Thomas Vice-Chair

David J. Wierz Treasurer We created BREAKTHROUGH to inspire action, promote partnership, and highlight what makes Coatesville amazing! Joel W. Goldberg Secretary We invited youth, local business and community leaders to share their compelling stories, accomplishments, Francine L. Jacoby and future endeavors! The pages of this magazine demonstrate our commitment to make the greater Coatesville Darya Sabocsik community a more vibrant place to live, work, and play: A place everyone and anyone can call home. Tony Scheivert BREAKTHROUGH Lila Singleton I hope you read this magazine and feel encouraged by our phenomenal youth, excited about the innovative Gregory V. Hines organizations working to build our local economy, intrigued by the number of organizations collaborating to meet Darletta J. Kelly the needs of youth and families, and most importantly, you are left thinking...“Coatesville is the place to be!” Kim Kiszely Jennifer C. McNeil

CHAYA SCOTT, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 2015-16 GAME CHANGERS YOUTH COUNCIL OFFICERS Gabriella Vetter Chair Emily Hadfield Vice-Chair The Coatesville Youth Initiative is an independent non-profit Jared Elters Parliamentarian organization committed to training youth leaders, enhancing Nevalyna McMillian Secretary family relationships, building community collaboration, and Tyree Warner Community Service Coordinator ON THE COVER encouraging prevention education. Brianna Conboy Fundraising Coordinator Past Summer Sarah Kargbo Historian ServiceCorps Participants BREAKTHROUGH is the semiannual publication of the Coatesville Youth Initiative. Photo credits to: CoatesvilleYouthInitiative.org 3 * Former CYI program participant Justine Newman, Samaria Turner, Tyler Changaris Please join us as we gather leaders from throughout the region for the story Breakthrough Leader TELLING Breakfast What role will you play to prepare the next generation of leaders? Join us for a thought-provoking and inspiring conversation featuring Dr. Manuel Pastor, Co-Director of the Center for the Study of Immigrant Integration at the University of Southern California. His crucial insights on the changing demography of our country are not to be missed by key decision makers who want to ensure their organizations and businesses are positioned for the future.

Sam Keen, an American known author, professor, and philosopher, once said that “The telling of your Friday, November 11, 2016 8–10 am The Desmond Hotel, Malvern PA stories is a revolutionary act.” I believe that to be true. I also believe that storytelling brings you one 8 am registration and networking 8:30 am breakfast and presentation step closer to being free; free from yourself, free from what others think of you, free from what tells us we can’t be

as great as we dream and freedom to continue to make the differences we want to make in the world. It is not always $30 per person includes breakfast and presentation Table sponsorships available (10 reservations) for $500.00 one story alone that makes a difference, but sometimes the collection and unity of many. It is through those stories

that the world is able to recognize the need for struggle before success, the growth of possibilities before reaching Register online at https://coatesvilleyouthconference.com/leadership-breakfast/ one’s potential; and the importance of realizing we are not alone. It is those very stories that break down barriers,

those truthful stories that help to place things into perspective, and those very stories that give us something to have

faith in. No one story is the same as another or more meaningful. It is because of our stories that we can appreciate The Breakthrough Leader Brought to you by the Breakfast is hosted in conjunction Coatesville Youth Initiative (CYI), diversity on all fronts, encourage individuality, and inspire others to be brave while aspiring to be the change we want with the Coatesville Youth Conference, an independent non-profit organization to see in the world. Let your story be the start of a revolution. Let it lead you to be the person you wish to become. which will be held free-of-charge on Saturday, November 12, 2016 committed to youth-led, for 400 Chester County students transformational community change. We hope you enjoy reading about our community and what makes Coatesville vibrant! in grades 6 – 12.

PLEASE VISIT coatesvilleyouthinitiative.org coatesvilleyouthconference.com AJA THOMPSON, CYI PROGRAM ASSISTANT

4 Coatesville Youth Initiative CoatesvilleYouthInitiative.org 5 student perspective If I were to sum up the Coatesville Youth Initiative in three words, they would be “Empowering, moving and change.” CYI made me who I am today. When I first began working with the Coatesville Youth Initiative, I was an underachiever, doing as little as possible to accomplish my goals. I was reclusive, a home- body; and most of all, I just plain did not like Coatesville. I never wanted to help the community because I didn’t think that the community would ever be able to change.

My journey with the Coatesville Youth Initiative started when I participated in ServiceCorps (see page 8 article). Through my peers, site supervisor, and going to community events, I started to have a CYI Game Changers Youth better appreciation for my community and those who resided in it. Council members are middle and After ServiceCorps, I wanted to stay involved with CYI so I joined high school students who meet the Game Changers Youth Council (see sidebar). twice a month during the academic school year. The council offers Over the years, I was elected to leadership roles. My perspective many opportunities for youth to changed. Now, I’m very open to change and I want to be a positive role engage with each other and discuss model for the future generations. Stepping out of my comfort zone has important social and community pushed me to do so many things I never really did before, such as taking issues while finding solutions in risks and trying new things. I am no longer scared to fail and I learned order to create meaningful impact. THE some things that showed me failure is okay. With failure comes a Most importantly, the council lesson and what do you really lose when you learn? provides a vehicle for the youth voice to be shared and heard. GAME CHANGERS I not only gained the knowledge needed to become the young adult I aspire to be, but I also made many friendships ... no, not just friendships, The group is open to any but brothers and sisters who I know will have my back through thick and student residing in the Coatesville thin. I have been impacted by the generosity, kindness, and love we all Area School District (regardless YOUTH COUNCIL share for one another. We view each other as people, not biased of whether or not they attend against his or her lifestyle. We simply care for one another. Coatesville schools) and includes a

Now, I see the beauty in everything around me. I see the flourish of youth wide range of ages and peer groups. becoming strong leaders that will go to college with the right mindset, It’s of substantial benefit to both run businesses with ease, and most importantly, support their community individual youth and to the group Game Changers addressing with every ounce of their being. I’ve realized that Coatesville is my home. as a whole that council members the CASD School Board are able to engage with others who I had the most amazing opportunity in the world; being part of might not be part of their regular the Coatesville Youth Initiative’s ServiceCorps and Game Changers circle of friends. programs. CYI does an amazing job developing the youth in Coatesville’s leadership and community involvement. H Throughout the year, meetings are held from 5–7 pm We must start with the little things to try and and are organized and run by the youth members. reach the big problems. You don’t need to be For more information about the “ some big and popular person to help. Game Changers Youth Council please contact Aja Thompson, DAYVON BLADEN, CYI Program Assistant. GAME CHANGERS YOUTH COUNCIL MEMBER 6 Coatesville Youth Initiative CoatesvilleYouthInitiative.org 7 2016 Summer ServiceCorps

ServiceCorps is much more than a summer This summer will mark employment program. Students see first- the seventh year for the ServiceCorps program. To date hand that collaboration and service are critical (including 2016 projections): components of effecting positive community change (see page 12 Guest Blog). There is also a formal process in place for youth to assume roles DOLLARS 510,000 PAID TO of increasing responsibility as they progress in PARTICIPANTS the program (three current members of the CYI

staff began as ServiceCorps participants). HOURS 67,000 WORKED Each ServiceCorps season starts out with an intensive INVESTING IN two-day overnight team building trip to Paradise Farm LEADERSHIP Camp in Downingtown, PA. Upon their recent return, TRAINING we asked the campers for their feedback on the 400 HOURS OUR COMMUNITY experience and several themes emerged:

& EMPOWERING Accepting Challenges Self-Discipline > “ My greatest accomplishment was jumping into > “ I have been setting boundaries for what can and the conversation with people I didn’t know. I tried cannot occur with friends here and at work.” to stay away from the people I knew in order to > “ My greatest accomplishment today was waking OUR LEADERS meet new people.” up at the right time and getting myself prepared > “ It’s okay to step out of your comfort zone and for the day.” make connections with people.” OF TOMORROW > “ I’m trying to create a path for myself to improve and lose negative attitudes in my life.” Empathy for Others

> “ I can be more patient and really take in what people Interaction (fun!) with Caring Adults are saying and not argue when I don’t agree.” THIS SUMMER, 39 STUDENTS AGES 14 —18 FROM THE COATESVILLE AREA > “At the overnight camping trip, we were playing SCHOOL DISTRICT will participate in the CYI ServiceCorps program – an intense > “ Everyone has their own thing that they are kickball and the adults, Darya (CYI Board Member) leadership development experience with a strong community service component. going through and you really never know unless and Ms. Kiszely (CASD High School Guidance you are told.” Counselor) were much more competitive and The application process is competitive and rigorous; those accepted will work for involved than the students. They were yelling and “I learned not to just talk but to listen to what >  even getting upset over calls. It was hilarious to eight weeks at various locations (host sites) in the greater Coatesville area (see side others have to say because they might have good watch...Ms. Kiszely is very entertaining.” bar). They earn a salary for their work (up to $2,100 per student that is paid by CYI) points or ideas.” and complete 50 hours of additional leadership training. > “One lesson I learned was not to hold a grudge with someone.”

8 Coatesville Youth Initiative CoatesvilleYouthInitiative.orgCoatesvilleYouthInitiative.org 99 MORE REFLECTIONS from the overnight trip

Participants grow their own food and make their lunch every day at Waste Oil Recyclers

While providing valuable experience for participants, Crystal Lowery is the Social Service Coordinator for 2016 ServiceCorps the program also gives back to the community by Better Tomorrows at Regency Park, an affordable providing over 10,000 hours of service for the host housing development for 126 families in Coatesville. sites. Art Partners Studio (APS) features high-quality, Crystal sites ServiceCorps participants as being a HOST SITES instructional summer art camps for youth, and relies crucial part of the summer programming offered to > Art Partners Studio on ServiceCorps participants to assist with hands-on youth residents. “Participants have a tremendous effect supervision of camp participants. Lindsay Brinton, APS on the operation of the summer enrichment program. > Better Tomorrow at Regency Park Executive Director explains, “When ServiceCorps was Without them, we would never be able to serve the > Brandywine Health Foundation formed, the Studio jumped at the chance to include the number of families who need us, nor would the kids get teens in our 2010 summer program and they accomplished the individualized instruction they need and deserve.” > Brandywine Hospital wonders. They had a lot on their plates, it was very hot, and In return, Crystal has high expectations for the > Bridge Academy and our space did not easily accommodate four teens with two ServiceCorps youth. “I am able to be that caring adult Community Center teachers and eighteen campers—yet they made it all work.” for what is often their first work experience and I will > Brandywine Red Clay Alliance Brinton explains that the experience is equally as accept only their very best efforts. I want to help > Coatesville Area Public Library valuable for the ServiceCorps youth. “As an educational them to see beyond themselves and > Coatesville Kids to College organization, APS provides opportunities for understand what a tremendous ServiceCorps teens to further their art experience with effect they can have on their > Coatesville Veterans Affairs an individual project. Led by studio artists, the teens have younger peers.” Medical Center photographed art camps, created posters, and developed For more information on the > Graystone Society digital ‘photographic collages’ that combine selfies and a ServiceCorps program and a full few written words about who they are or want to be. APS > Handicrafters evaluation of program results and has also enjoyed long-term relationships with many of the community impact, please visit the > Waste Oil Recyclers teen assistants. Two of our first ServiceCorps participants CYI website. H > YMCA of Greater Brandywine continued on to become employees.”

10 Coatesville Youth Initiative CoatesvilleYouthInitiative.org 11 In the summer of 2011, students from Coatesville gathered to explore the Brandywine River from its headwaters in Northern Chester County, PA, to Wilmington, DE. The goal was to have the students become the catalysts for educating the public about the source and protection of this drinking water supply and the vital and little-recognized connections between Coatesville and the downstream communities. The trip marked the launch of the Brandywine Trek in partnership with the Stroud Water Research Center.

Participants learn that they are not cut off from the world beyond the city line — but are instead intimately connected to the people, communities and natural life downstream. “With financial support from Pennsylvania American Water In 2015, the Trek was renamed the Brandywine Company and the Applestone Foundation, the Trek continues Watershed Discovery Camp (BWDC) and adapted to to engage youth in outdoor exploration and educational engage middle-school students. As CYI staff member activities to encourage a healthy connection with the natural Jarvis Berry notes, “Providing the Trek camp to middle world and develop the skills needed to preserve their local school students allows CYI to reach and ultimately environment. The camp balances structure, free play, and impact youth at an earlier age, which research shows nature study while building social and life skills in camp is critical for long term, positive youth development. participants. It is a true marriage of nature, science, spirit, In addition, we simplified the format into a day-camp play, and community. based program where the youth engage in an intensive 5-day/week-long trek along the Brandywine Creek, Students record their experiences with photographs and albeit in a format that allows them to go home to be journal entries, which illustrate the connections from the with their families after the daily trek activities.” creek running through Coatesville, to Wilmington and every community in between. Their work also helps to underscore “We modeled the week on a similar project taking BranDywIne why each community is vital to the health of the Brandywine. place in New York’s Hudson River Valley, and couldn’t After the trek, the Coatesville students will put into practice continue without the Stroud Water Research Center, their new sense of responsibility for their community and the which continues to serve as a key partner and waterway by working with local groups on stream restoration, educational site on the Trek. Our hope is that this stream adoption and clean-up projects in the city. journey will directly involve Coatesville youth in protecting their greatest natural resource while In a larger sense, the Trek was created to provide an revitalizing their city.” TREK opportunity for youth from the Coatesville area to connect with their peers and develop leadership and life skills. As they grow in knowledge and self-confidence, Students recognize the responsibility they have in keeping the students become the spokespeople for the their community healthy, feel empowered in that they can Brandywine, communicating the importance of the make a difference in their community, and ideally then creek, not only to Coatesville, but to all their neighbors mobilize others within their community to help them. in the watershed. H

DID YOU knOw? THE COATESVILLE YOUTH INITIATIVE’S BRANDYWINE WATERSHED DISCOVERY Another key collaborator in the creation of the Trek was Bob Holliday, founder of the Brandywine Watershed Regeneration Initiative. DAY CAMP (BWDC) engages 4–6th grade Coatesville youth in science & educational The BWRI serves as a tireless advocate for the creek and all that it activities and outdoor discovery. Youth are encouraged to explore, appreciate and represents to our region. Because it’s not easily seen from the street protect hidden gems that are present in their own local community. while driving, many people don’t realize that the beautiful Brandywine Creek runs right through the city of Coatesville at First Avenue.

12 Coatesville Youth Initiative CoatesvilleYouthInitiative.org 13 One man's trash There are really no mechanics, IT specialists or chemists here – we just keep learning and “ figuring it out as we go along. ...THE TREASURE

WE FOUND Earlier this month, we had the pleasure of visiting with Jim Bricker, President of Waste Oil Recyclers in Modena, PA. For five years, they have served as a ServiceCorps host site (see page 8 article), providing CYI program participants with an incredibly wide range of IN MODENA experiences (see side bar blog). The program is equally beneficial for the host sites, in that they gain an enthusiastic and creative workforce for 8 weeks in the summer.

Waste Oil Recyclers takes cooking oil from restaurants When the state tax credits for greening began to dry up, he and commercial establishments, and processes it to sell was laid off and decided to devote some time to his biofuel to biodiesel producers. Companies like HERO BX in Erie concept. “It began with a van, a credit card and a very Pennsylvania, then refine the oil into cleaner burning fuel. large barrel”, he explains. “I bought a kit online to help with If not recycled, the oil can end up in unfavorable places the process, but it’s not as technical as you might think... such as down drains (and eventually into our waterways) We started working with 3 restaurants that we frequented or as feed for livestock animals, which has adverse mostly as an experiment, and our biggest hurdles at that effects for the animals and humans who consume it. As point were trying not to ruin the truck we had borrowed the initiative to wean the US away from foreign crude oil to transport the oil or finding space to do the work. My gains momentum, the use of biofuel and the industry in landlord wasn’t super excited about the project.” general is growing exponentially. By their own admission, however, the beginnings for Waste Oil Recyclers were humble. What follows is a story about the curiosity and passion that sparked both a multi-million dollar business and an emerging movement known as MoGreena.

Jim Bricker grew up outside of Chicago and graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in Anthropology. When asked what led him to develop the company, he cited several influences. “I don’t have a science background, but I have always been really interested about how different cultures use their natural resources. And I was raised as a recycler – my grandfather grew up during the depression, and his job was to remove the nails from old box cars and straighten them so that they could be reused. I was struck by the fact that no one today would give that kind of attention to reuse. And lastly, the second war in Iraq had an impact. I remember DID YOU people protesting about the ‘War for oil’ and our knOw? dependence on oil for fuel, while others were offended Waste Oil Recyclers/MoGreena will host at the prospect of giving up their cars or driving less. It the 5th Annual Harvest Art Party on seemed like there could be a way to help strike a balance.” Thursday, October 27. Visit their website Years later when Jim moved to Pennsylvania, he took a (wasteroilrecyclers.com) and Facebook job as an installer for solar panels (most notably for the Page for additional information. governor’s mansion) and lightning mitigation systems.

14 Coatesville Youth Initiative CoatesvilleYouthInitiative.org 15 identify and weed wild hops, morning glory, COATESVILLE YOUTH and stinging nettle. Wild hops are an invasive species that literally love to grow everywhere! DID YOU INITIATIVE GUEST BLOG They are extremely annoying due to their habit knOw? of sticking to your skin and ripping it when you (waste Oil recyclers aug 13 2015) The Chester County Food Bank , , move away. Morning glory is also invasive but Fresh2You Mobile Market it is not harmful to you, except for the fact that will be visiting Waste Oil Recyclers every Thursday from 1–2 pm Hi, it’s Zyonna Boykin again from Coatesville you should NOT eat it…it’s kind of poisonous. for fresh produce sales. Youth Initiative! This is my last week at Waste Oil Recyclers and I am proud to say that I had a very Last but not least is the stinging nettle. It is astounding summer here. From weeding vicious mostly known for the seven minute itch. If you wild hops to harvesting produce and canoeing have to weed it, pull it up from where it meets Because they weren’t highly professionalized at that point, no at 7:30, good people. We have on the Brandywine, my CYI coworkers and I have the ground. Also, be sure to wear gloves and long one really wanted to give them space. Jim happened to live a a sustainability professor from sleeves. If you get stung by stinging nettle, no had a very diverse experience and have learned mile from their current spot and visited a warehouse area in WCU speaking this week.” Enter worries! A plant known as jewel weed is usually a lot of skills here. Modena one day with the hope of getting a break. “There was a MoGreena, which their website resting right by it! There were a lot other weeds veteran there named Earl who took a chance on us and leased defines as an, “Endeavor to feed but these were the ones that stuck out for me. Harvest Produce us 1300 square feet. We then incorporated in 2007.” and educate our community about The CYI teens along with Waste Oil Recyclers growing food and healthy eating.” Mural Jim has since been joined by Brendan Steer, an equal partner worked together to harvest 1404.8 lbs. of produce in the business who focuses on sales and according to Jim, Jim’s boast held true, and Tuesday Lastly, we got to do a mural at Wyebrook Farm. in eight weeks. The produce included squash, is responsible for the larger corporate accounts, like West was a good time. One can sense cucumbers, onions, cabbage, kale (blue and red), The mural was a way of get rid of a symbol that Chester University and the Philadelphia Sports complexes. that this spot is a community hub bell peppers, a variety of tomatoes and much more! did not represent what Wyebrook nor Waste Oil “When we were first starting out, Brendan approached me where people come to enjoy both the camaraderie as well as the As a participant in the harvest this year, I got to Recyclers businesses represented and painting and said that he wanted to work for the company, which was work being done. The raised bed gardens are remarkable both learn how to properly take care of and harvest each over it with positivity that was appealing to the really just me. He worked pro bono for two years because of in size and variety, and the substantial harvest is donated to the plant so I would, in turn, be able to comfortably public eye. his passion for what we were doing.” Chester County Food Bank and West Chester Food Cupboard. “We started the beds to help Organic Mechanics (another start my own garden at home if I please. Today Waste Oil Recyclers owns all of the land and the This summer has been fun, but working with the separately owned business on the property that provides warehouses surrounding the original rental site. The company Waste Oil Recyclers crew made it even more superior organic local potting soil) test their product and things Canoeing employs 25 people and has a fleet of 12 trucks. They are currently enjoyable! I would like to give a thank you to just grew from there.” Canoeing had to be one of my favorite activities building 200 feet of railway to connect with the Lukens freight Jim, Steve, Jason, Brendan, Smitty, Mike Shelley, at this worksite all year. Every Tuesday, we would line, which will then connect them to major rail arteries to the In addition to the natural beauty of the gardens and shoreline Chase, Brenda, Biff, Patty, Tom, and Paul for east and west. Their recently launched software line, Greasr, at the Waste Oil site, there is much more to see and experience: go out on the Brandywine and test the PH levels, making this summer as fun as they possibly assists small start-up businesses in similar trades. We asked an upside down car buried halfway in the ground, a superhero conductivity, dissolved oxygen, water temperature could. Also, I would like to thank my fellow CYI Jim how they keep up with the growth and diversity of business. mural of the Waste Oil staff, a Star Wars van with Yoda painted and water samples for E coli. These components coworkers: Bahsyre, Tony, and Simon. “There are really no mechanics, IT specialists or chemists here – on the side, a Mercedes station wagon (Jim’s) with octopi determine the health of the water that is in our own we just keep learning and figuring it out as we go along.” decoration, snapping turtles, birds, fauna galore, great food back yard. Everyone should be aware of what is and drink — and the list goes on. getting put into the Brandywine; The Waste Oil site is a beautiful mix of industry, nature and it’s everyone’s responsibility art. There are murals around the property (many painted Waste Oil Recyclers hit a major milestone this May in reaching by CYI youth), mature, impressive gardens, a shore along their 10 million gallon mark. We asked Jim if they had ever to make sure the river remains Mural at Wyebrook Farm the Brandywine Creek and a large performance stage to thought this would be possible. “When we first started and healthy. This includes properly complement the festivals they host there. When we requested mapped out our company goals, Brendan talked about how disposing of your medication, a visit, Jim replied via email, “Tuesday is a good day. From 5–9 amazing it would be if we could ever reach the one million mark. not littering, reducing run off of we have our volunteer garden night. It’s a good time, dinner None of us thought we’d be here, and this year alone we’re on pet feces, and just being mindful track to collect 2.7 million gallons.” Equally as impressive is their of what you’re dumping into the client list, which has grown to over 4000 businesses. “But what sewers (including oil). means more,” Jim points out, “is that we still have our first three customers who remain friends.” H Weeding the Gardens Weeding is by far the most vigorous job I have dealt LINDSAY MYERS, with this summer. I can now CYI DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

16 Coatesville Youth Initiative CoatesvilleYouthInitiative.org 17 ServiceCorps Recycling Event and 2015 Make a more than a Difference Day PRETTY FACE WHY COMMUNITY You may have seen them around the city – volunteers picking up trash, erasing graffiti, BEAUTIFICATION planting flowers and working to make Coatesville a prettier place. If you take a closer look at these groups, you will see a diverse mix that includes city council members, CYI youth, local law enforcement REALLY MATTERS. and people from all areas of the community. It sometimes seems like a daunting task, but there is no sense of apathy among this group. They realize the importance of their work.

The physical beauty of a city is a direct reflection of community pride. From a business perspective, a well maintained environment speaks of community activity and The American Planning Association’s stability. Physical improvements can have a contagious city parks forum on safer effect, increasing property value and bringing new residents neighborhoods suggests that and opportunity into an area. With this in mind, the most beautifying stark, urban spaces could obvious reason to promote community beautification might have positive effects on stress and be to increase municipal profit. mental health. The forum highlights four key points backed by research But what if there were deeper and more meaningful from the University of Illinois: implications to support these efforts?

Trending research suggests that there is a direct correlation 1 Time spent in nature between neighborhood characteristics and their influence immediately adjacent to home on public health. Neighborhood environmental decay in helps people to relieve mental communities with rundown areas can negatively affect fatigue, reducing aggression. residents’ sense of security and heightens perceptions (and 2 Green residential spaces are possibly the incidence) of crime. Features of the urban gathering places where neighbors physical environment, such as crowding, noise and pollution, form social ties that produce and perceptions of negative conditions (especially threats stronger, safer neighborhoods. to safety), all affect human behavior. As a result, residents report feeling stressed, anxious, and even depressed. 3 Barren spaces are more frightening to people and are more crime By contrast, when our streets and landscapes have a better prone than parks landscaped with curb appeal, residents tend to spend more time outdoors, greenery and open vistas. promoting a social cohesion that positively influences public health in multiple ways. 4 In order to make the best use of The communities in which we live, work and play greenery and open space, it must influence our happiness every day! Time spent outdoors also encourages physical activity and be positively incorporated into a “ as importantly, rest and relaxation. community’s design.

18 Coatesville Youth Initiative CoatesvilleYouthInitiative.org 19 According to the National Institutes of the effective Partnership of Health, all of this allows for psychological restoration. Simply stated, the communities BEAUTIFICATION AND PREVENTION EDUCATION in which we live, work and play influence our happiness every day. To date, in collaboration with local law > Work with local vendors to decrease the sale enforcement, city officials, the Coatesville of alcohol to minors. Failed compliance checks Recognizing that beautification can change Area School District and community leaders, for alcohol have decreased from a 21% failure crime statistics and mental health for the CYI has worked to: rate in 2013 to a 6% failure rate in 2015. better, the Coatesville Youth Initiative’s Successfully Prevention Department takes great pride in > Establish five permanent drop boxes to collect > pass a local ordinance to prohibit smoking in parks and public supporting all efforts to make the Coatesville 4,600 pounds of unused medication, keeping spaces in the City of Coatesville. community a cleaner and “safer” environment. harmful substances away from our youth and our waterways. > Co-sponsor Coatesville Area High School Because it is vital that the efforts be > Create and distribute 20,514 brochures Students Against Destructive Decisions community-led, we collaborate with all highlighting over 279 pro-social youth (SADD) Prevention Day Teen Driver Summit stakeholders and organizations in the city activities and alternatives to participating in and provide information to 1,447 teens on of Coatesville, and in the surrounding risky behaviors. drug and alcohol usage. townships and boroughs within the Greater > Conduct 492 community presentations to > Co-sponsor the Students Against Destructive Coatesville Area (the boundaries of the DID YOU provide credible information about the harmful Decisions Club (SADD) town hall event on Coatesville Area School District, which knOw? effects of participating in substance use. post-prom safety for 520 senior students. includes nine municipalities.) The temporary art installations in Coatesville > Provide over 17,000 brochures, flyers, and > Establish and annually implement “Kick Follow CYI on Facebook and join the articles to students, parents and caregivers Butt Day” where youth encourage their are part of the Philadelphia Museum of Art Inside peers to stay tobacco-free. CYI email list for up-to-date information highlighting information, tools and skills to on community collaborations to beautify Out Exhibition facilitated in collaboration with reduce teen drug use at home. our city – it matters! H Art Partners Studio and the Coatesville City Council.

Bridge Academy Community Clean Up

COATESVILLE MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY!

Coming in October, 2016 Join us as the community comes together to beautify OUR city.

Volunteer registration begins 8 am at the Coatesville Youth Initiative (545 E. Lincoln Highway, Coatesville) The Coatesville Youth Initiative is an independent non-profit organization For more information, contact Lula Defersha committed to training youth leaders, enhancing family relationships, at [email protected] building community collaboration, and encouraging prevention education.

20 Coatesville Youth Initiative CoatesvilleYouthInitiative.orgCoatesvilleYouthInitiative.org 2121 It seemed if we Community Collaborations all combined efforts, “ we could have a greater impact.

The Bridge Academy and Community Center, located at 570 Olive Street in Coatesville, strives to equip youth and families with the tools necessary for academic achievement, life skills, creative expression, spiritual growth and leadership. We asked Executive Director, Jordan Crans to discuss the Coatesville Back to School event that she helped to create in 2013.

“When I think of Coatesville, I think of diversity and seen more and more community involvement! Last year, 1558 the many skills and talents that the people in our filled book bags were collected to distribute at the event, community possess. When groups and individuals come along with 50 sets of uniforms! Twelve organizations served together, we make major impacts on those around us. on the committee, 99 volunteers served on the day of the One particular opportunity that gives a glimpse of what event logging 401 volunteer hours, 177.5 volunteer hours unity can accomplish is the annual city-wide Coatesville were logged packing book bags in the days leading up to the Back to School event. This event is held at Scott Middle event, 19 community organizations came as vendors, and School each August, with the goals to (a) educate local 78 sponsors and supporters provided the supplies! residents about healthy lifestyles (particularly for their children), and (b) ensure that local low-income children are off to a healthy start for the upcoming school year. This collaborative event is a testimony to the fact that when groups come together for a single purpose, they can accomplish anything!

Many families in our community do not have the resources to buy new book bags and supplies as they head back to school each fall, and students often return unprepared. In an effort to meet this need, the UNITING Bridge Academy and Community Center began to hold our own annual family friendly event in 2002, which eventually gave out more than 700 filled book bags to students each year! As the years progressed, we TO PREPARE realized that other organizations in the community also held book bag drives, and it seemed if we all combined efforts, we could have a greater impact. DID YOU knOw? COATESVILLE KIDS The Bridge Academy and the Coatesville Youth Initiative The Bridge’s mission is to equip youth and families decided to reach out to the local organizations involved with the tools necessary for academic achievement, in book bag drives to see if we could truly collaborate life skills, creative expression, spiritual growth and with a purpose of meeting the needs of our community leadership. While providing basic tutoring and over FOR SUCCESS more effectively. As a result, in August of 2013 the first Coatesville Back to School – Prepare for Success Event 10,000 meals to program participants in 2015, the was held at Scott Middle School! Over the past three Bridge offers a wide variety of youth programming years the event has continued to grow and we have including Crossfit and Equestrian Leadership.

22 Coatesville Youth Initiative CoatesvilleYouthInitiative.org 23 The beauty about the Coatesville Back to School event is that there are currently thirteen different organizations coming together throughout the entire year to ensure the success of this event. This is one of the first true collaborations of several different entities that has continued and is now in its fourth year, which is something to be celebrated! We consider it an honor to partner with such amazing organizations, in order to prepare students for success in their upcoming school year!” H

JORDAN CRANS, BRIDGE ACADEMY AND COMMUNITY CENTER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Friday, August 19, 2016 3–6 pm Scott Middle School 800 Olive Street, Coatesville

(The line begins on Olive Street no earlier than 1:00 pm) All Activities are FREE to School Age Families K through 12th Grade

H Free Book Bags Stay in the Know! with Supplies H Mobile Game Truck H Moon Bounce DID YOU & Face Painting knOw? H Volunteer Opportunities Collaboration has tangible community COATESVILLE YOUTH INITIATIVE H The CYI Program and Events Guide benefits and can serve to: Educational Information is published twice annually (Spring/Summer and H After-School Programs Winter/Fall). Organizations offering youth programming GROW COMMUNITY AWARENESS: H Health & Nutrition Information can be included free of charge! Increased participation leads to H Hot Dogs & Sno-Cones H Free Haircuts increased community awareness. 10,000 guides are distributed annually throughout the INCLUDE DIVERSE SKILL SETS: The sharing of expertise can make BROUGHT TO YOU BY: community and to every student attending a Coatesville daunting tasks more manageable. Coatesville Area School District • Bridge Academy and Area School District Elementary school.

Community Center • City of Coatesville • Coatesville Center

OVERCOME OBSTACLES: for Community Health • Coatesville Soup Kitchen GREATER COATESVILLE COMMUNITY If you are interested in being included in the guide A partnership, coalition or network Coatesville Police Department • Coatesville Youth Initiative Summer 50/50 L.G. Entertainment • County Corrections Gospel • Early Fall has more power to influence policy or having guides available at your place of business, YOUTH PROGRAMS & Mission • Pennsylvania State Police • The Movement COMMUNITY EVENTS than a single organization. United Way of Chester County • YMCA of Greater Brandywine contact CYI Development Director, Lindsay Myers. • 2016 AVOID DUPLICATION: Ensure Donations and volunteers are needed – for more information, efforts and services aren’t being please visit: coatesvillebacktoschool.org unnecessarily replicated.

24 Coatesville Youth Initiative CoatesvilleYouthInitiative.org 25 We believe that a community can only be as strong as each family unit. The Families and Schools Together (FAST) Program provides an opportunity for families to come together weekly, share a meal and enjoy time together. There are opportunities to engage in games, activities and conversations that further communication and connection between families. July 6 marked the recent FAST reunion, when past program participants gathered for an evening of fun and celebration.

Upon completing FAST, many parents have shared that while they knew it would be both fun and impactful for their kids, they were surprised at how meaningful the program was for them as well. Many parents conveyed that they looked forward to the weekly parent discussion groups and formed strong connections with other parents. For more information on how your family can participate in the FAST program, contact CYI Parental Engagement Coordinator Megan Schmierer. H

Celebrate what makes

EVERY FAMILY CHECK US OUT AND special and unique! SHARE THE LOVE!

Tell your children and your neighbors’ children about the Coatesville Youth Initiative!

Visit our website for the most up-to-date news about Coatesville youth and join our email list today. This was a space where I could support other “ parents while feeling supported myself. www.coatesvilleyouthinitiative.org

26 Coatesville Youth Initiative CoatesvilleYouthInitiative.org 27 545 East Lincoln Highway NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE Coatesville, PA 19320 CoatesvilleYouthInitiative.org PAID NEED INFO PERMIT NO. XXX

REGISTRATION OPENS SEPTEMBER 1, 2016

“Go as far as you can see; when you get there, you’ll be able to see farther. ” – J.P. Morgan

SATURDAY, BREAKTHROUGH 6TH - 12TH NOVEMBER 12, GRADE YOUTH 2016 LEADERS! COATESVILLE AREA 9AM - 2PM HIGH SCHOOL CAMPUS

Outstanding Great Music, FREE to attend Speakers Food and but limited to the first and Workshops Giveaways! 350 registrants!

PLEASE VISIT CoatesvilleYouthConference.com