New Programs and Renovations unveiled at Chapel Vision Community Development Corporation
In honor of National Love Our Children Day, UAW-Ford unveiled its community contributions to Chapel Vision Community Development Center during an official ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 2.
UAW-Ford provided a newly renovated recreational facility, which includes: state-of-the-art simulators for baseball/softball and golf, a half-size basketball court, a fitness area and an arcade. UAW-Ford also announced its Mind & Manners Mentoring and Tutorial Program.
UAW-Ford’s Vice President Jimmy Settles said, “I feel very blessed and fortunate to be in a position to help give back to such a project in a community that will create a safe haven for youth and residents needing recreational and basic life-skill training needed to produce well-rounded individuals.”
The mentoring program will accept youth 8 – 13 years-old, providing them with tutoring, etiquette and baseball training. In addition to UAW-Ford’s contribution, Chapel Vision CDC also installed a new heating and cooling system, lighting, security and renovated classrooms for workshops, teaching and professional development.
The objectives for this initiative are to create alternative, positive outlets for local youth, increase literacy in an effort to shorten the achievement gap, create a positive culture for youth as well as improve health and physical activity.
Coach Brian Brunson of Michigan Heavy Hitters Baseball also will conduct a baseball program for youth program participants.
“We are proud to invest in Detroit neighborhoods and youth in an effort to help local communities,” said Bill Dirksen, Ford Motor Company vice president of Labor Affairs. “In order for Detroit to see a complete resurgence, we must commit to working together and each do our part.”
The program is open to area students every Monday and Wednesday from 4 – 7 p.m. in grades third through fifth. Students in grades sixth through eighth can participate Tuesday and Thursday from 4pm – 6pm.
National Love Our Children Day was established to recognize children’s value in society. This special day honor children by emphasizing the importance of strong families and raises awareness for efforts to keep children safe and protected.
“I am extremely proud of this initiative and welcome our community members to take part in this much-needed endeavor. Our hope is to make Detroit a safe and healthy environment for youth,” said Chapel Vision CDC’s founding Pastor Tellis J. Chapman.
Chapel Vision CDC was founded in 2004 by Galilee Baptist Church. It aims to provide outreach services that meet human needs, which addresses social crisis and improves the quality of life for area residents. These services include recreational programs, summer youth programs, homeless shelter initiatives and soup kitchens.
Established in 1941, UAW-Ford has a rich history of fighting for its members and the communities in which they live, work and play. Whether it is workers’ rights, youth development, community giving, offering skilled trades and/or educational training, UAW-Ford is committed to providing opportunities that secure both economic and social stability for the American workers and their families. Improving the quality of life is among UAW-Ford’s chief principles and serves as a benchmark for how labor rights are addressed in the 21st Century. Its members help to build the strong cars that drive America, which not only reinforces a solid economy and workforce, but also helps to build strong communities nationwide.
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