Christian Community Development Corporation’s (CCDC) street outreach staff and volunteers will connect with people, young and old, in the community through monthly Artwalk, awareness events for youth, and a Saturday referral service at the Mall of Abilene.  During the month Our Crew can provide food resources (vouchers, healthy snacks, water, etc.) and information about other available services. 

Our Crew-Street Outreach Program will be an awareness building outreach of the Christian Community Development Corporation’s (CCDC).  The street outreach staff will provide positive alternatives for homeless youth.  Safe shelter, opportunities and resources will be made available. This will be accomplished by meeting youth on the street, at the Mall of Abilene, in their neighborhoods, and from Christian Community Development Corporation’s Youth Advisory council.  These services include the following:

1. Street-based education and outreach
2. Access to emergency shelter and assistance with
   transitional/independent living
3. Survival aid
4. Treatment and counseling resources
5. Prevention and education activities
6. Information and referrals
7. Follow-up support

Chick-fil-A, McDonalds, and United Supermarkets have already contributed food vouchers and gift cards.  A health care component is being developed in partnership with existing medical care vans.

Our Crew supports young people through a positive youth development approach.  That approach suggests that the best way to prevent young people’s involvement in risky behavior is to help them achieve their full potential.  Youth development strategies, therefore, focus on giving young people the chance to exercise leadership, build skills, and become involved in their communities.

Project outcomes:

1. Awareness within the community,
2. Contact with youth on the street,
3. Gaining trust and building relationships
4. Supply youth on streets with basic nutritional needs, and
5. A connection to community resources.

9.07.2009