Ravendale Community's Mission
To provide an environment for residents to grow and prosper spiritually, intellectually, socially and economically.
To encourage residents to contribute their time, talent and resource to the betterment of their community, so that all residents and visitors can feel welcome and comfortable in Ravendale Community, Inc.
Accomplishments and Successes
Ravendale Community, Inc. and its' executive director, Toni Mcilwain, garner attention locally and nationally and recipients of numerous accolades and awards. Most notably, Ravendale is a Point of Light Award recipient, awarded by the Presidents of the United States and a subject of a one hour documentary about its community organizing efforts.
One of Ravendalcs' greatest accomplishments is a program that they have implemented call "I Am Living My Dream." It is program designed to assist in eliminating the barriers that prevents families from getting off of government assistance. One of the components is the education and training that is needed to move families ahead in life. Funding is needed to provide the education and training so that the residents can see their dreams become a reality.
What a joy to see individuals move forward and have their dignity affirmed at the same time!
Ravendale Community, Inc. has experienced many successes through the following:
Developed block clubs in the area, getting resident involved in the total success of changing their own environment. (This must be done)
Monthly leadership training for block club participants
Partnered with faith-based organizations and corporations to participate in the Adopt-A-Block Program
Developed and implemented counseling program for at-risk-individuals and families
Developed and Implemented Drug Prevention Program
Developed ongoing relationship with area Police Department
Public monthly newsletter to keep residents informed of what is happening in their prospective area
Ongoing Clean-up projects to garner pride among the residents
Gang prevention programs
The Rebirth of Ravendale
The residents of Ravendale are making strides to reignite the community a few years after the community center closed. Monthly meetings have been scheduled to continue the momentum of our inititiatives below.
The following programs are being implemented:
1. Getting local businesses involved in the community 2. Establish block clubs 3. Create a blight committee to beautify the neighborhood (A neigborhood park has already been started) 4. Develop leadership in the community 5. Continue building upon our relationship with the police department
Emmanuel Christian Men's Home
In additional to the programs outlined above, Ravendale Community, Inc. has established The Emmanuel Christian Men's Home. Ravendale is the fiduciary of The Emmanuel Christian Men's Home. We are actively raising funds to help men recognize and overcome their behaviors which prevent them from experiencing healthy growth and development in their lives.
