Citizens Committee for New York City, a Reisenbach Partner Organization, gives annual Reisenbach Neighborhood Safety Awards to organization through grassroots and block-level organizations that are contributing to increasing the safety and quality of life of their neighborhood. Through these grants, neighbors work together to cover up graffiti, convert vacant lots into safer community, organize tenants to advocate for better housing conditions, and etc. The microgrant may seem small, but it has an incredible impact on the organization’s neighborhood on a macro level.
A recent grant was awarded to Street Corner Resources. Their “I Am Peace” program is a bi-monthly outdoor open mic that engages youth in speaking out against gang violence to address Harlem’s high homicide rates and gang violence. The open mic offers a safe space for youth to express themselves, channel their talents, and feel supported by like-minded peers. Street Corner Resources engages youth to participate in anti-violence activism and believes youth are better at reaching through to their peers about gun and gang violence. The open mic draws performances from known musicians, singers, and rappers as well as community members showcasing their talents promoting peace. The events take place on 129th Street and Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Boulevard.
A JAR micro-grant provided t-shirts, a deejay, refreshments, A/V equipment, and staffing for âI Am Peace.â
For more information visit CitizensNYC.org.
