From the web site http://www.whitehouse.gov/Initiatives/OneAmerica Promising Practices In communities across America, there are many programs working to encourage participation of people from different racial backgrounds and ensure opportunities for all Americans. Promising Practices highlights efforts designed to improve race relations and build One America. New efforts from a wide variety of sectors will be posted on this page because one of the most important goals of the President's Initiative on Race is to learn about and from community efforts and to share them with all Americans. If you are affiliated with, or are aware of, a successful program that is consistent with the Initiative's goals, please e-mail the Race Initiative. We are particularly interested in learning about programs that: 1. Educate Americans about the facts concerning race, such as historical knowledge and awareness, the breakdown of racial stereotypes and the increasing demographic diversity of the country; 2. Promote constructive racial dialogue to work through the difficult issues surrounding race; 3. Reduce racial disparities by expanding opportunities in critical areas; 4. Promote the value of diversity; 5. Promote our shared values and commonalities which transcend racial lines. . | Two Towns: One Community A New Jersey-based organization that develops strategies to sustain racial balance in the housing market Amistad Research Center A New Orleans-based research institution that collects information on the history of racial and ethnic groups Publicolor A New York-based nonprofit organization that works with young people, using painting as a way to increase their self-esteem and build camaraderie The Urban Coalition, Community Information Clearinghouse A St. Paul, MN-based organization that provides people with data and research about their communities Unity in the Community A Manassas, VA-based program that sponsors programs to educate the public about racial and religious tolerance Support Training Results In Valuable Employment A New York-based program that trains young adults with the proper skills to attain employment Sponsor-A-Scholar A Philadelphia, PA-based program that matches at-risk youth with mentors to provide them with academic guidance "Shades of L.A." A Pasadena, CA-based radio program that encourages dialogues on race Shades of Grey A West Bend, WI-based program that uses the media to teach children about the value of diversity and tolerance Seeking Common Ground A Denver, CO-based program that brings people from various racial, cultural, religious and political backgrounds together to increase their understanding of and respect for each other Pro-integrative Consultation A Philadelphia, PA-based program that provides guidance to local communities that want to sustain racial integration in their cities Peace Games A Sommerville, MA-based program that works with young children and their families to create safe schools and teach the value of respecting people of different racial and ethnic backgrounds Partners in Peer Mediation: A Collaborative for Safe Harris County Schools A Harris County, TX-based program that teaches students conflict-resolution skills and the importance of peer mediation Northeastern University's Center for the Study of Sport A Boston, MA-based organization that examines how sports relate to different social issues, including race Native American Day A Fallon, NV-based activity that educates elementary children about Native American culture National Youth Leadership Mission to the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum A Chicago, IL-based program that teaches young people how to fight bigotry and discrimination Multicultural Collaborative A Los Angeles, CA-based program that provides community-based services different racial and ethnic groups in the city Moore's Ford Memorial Committee A Bishop, GA-based committee that promotes justice and racial reconciliation in the community Minority Round Table of Hampton Roads A Virginia Beach, VA-based community program that explores race-related issues in public schools Loyola Marymount University CommUNITY Quilt A Los Angeles, CA-based effort that encourages student organizations to interact through racial dialogues and the production of a quilt Leon County's Quality/Diversity Initiative A Tallahassee, FL-based initiative that teaches county employees effective management skills for working in an increasingly diversified workforce Kids' World, The Children's International Festival A Tulsa, OK-based festival that features activities which teach children about different cultures The Joplin Globe Diversity Committee A Joplin, MO-based committee that monitors the handling of diversity-related issues in the local newspaper and in the community at large Inner Strength, Inc. An Atlanta, GA-based anti-gang program that offers tutoring and mentoring to young men I Have a Dream A Washington, D.C.-based program that provides academic support to students so they will eventually attend college Human Relations in New Orleans: A Day of Healing A New Orleans activity that encourages people to discuss race-related issues in order to reduce racial and ethnic tension Higher Ground A Boston, MA-based program that works with colleges and universities to increase the number of minority and low-income college students who graduate Harry T. and Harriette V. Moore Multi-Cultural Center A Cocoa, FL-based center that organizes forums that focus on the value of racial and cultural diversity Global Kids, Inc. A New York-based program that teaches young people about global issues FAITHS Initiative A San Francisco, CA-based initiative operated by faith-based organizations to develop programs that encourage social interaction among different races Eracism A New Orleans, LA-based program that works with people of different races to improve racial tolerance and increase racial dialogue Diversity & Unlearning Prejudice Program A Los, Angeles-CA based program created to train county employees to recognize the value of diversity in the workforce DIALOGO: An Education Program to Improve Human Relations A Raleigh, N.C.-based program that uses art to educate people about racial stereotypes City at Peace A program that teaches young people conflict-resolution skills and leadership principles Choose One A Lakewood, CO-based program that reduces bias and stereotyping in Colorado Career Beginnings A Boston, MA-based program that works with high school students to prepare them for higher education and employment Campus Climate Plan A program operated by San Jose State University that addresses issues on campus that affect the stability and well-being of the student population Black History Tours A Dade County, FL-based activity that provides tours of African American historical sites Black & White Boston Coming Together, Inc. A Boston-based organization that brings people of different races together in both professional and social settings The Lt. Governor's Committee on Diversity The Dubuque-based committee provides information, resources and support to communities throughout the state of Iowa so they can combat prejudice and racism. SHINE (Seeking Harmony In Neighborhoods Everyday) A Princeton, NJ program that sponsors workshops for racially diverse children to learn tolerance, non-violence and self-esteem MultiCultural Resource Center A Portland, OR center that has developed educational programs for schools to use to promote racial and cultural understanding Milestone Adventures An East Montpelier, VT program that sponsors activities that bring people of different races together The Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative A Roxbury, MA program that enlists participation of local residents to direct the improvement efforts within their own community Community Outreach A Washington, DC program that encourages civic participation among people of racial backgrounds YouthBuild U.S.A. A Somerville, MA program that encourages young adults to serve in community-service projects in their neighborhoods Walk In My Shoes Student Symposium A Santa Ana, CA program that teaches young people how to talk about the issue of race, and build understanding and tolerance Unity Week: Seven Days of Harmony A Tulsa, OK 1995 effort that lasted over a one-week period and featured events that raised the racial consciousness of the city The Network to Freedom Interpretive Studies Program A Goldboro, NC program that teaches young people about race-related events in American and South African history Glide Memorial United Methodist Church A San Francisco, CA church that operates social service programs for people in the neighborhood Flames A Brooklyn, NY program designed to bring young people of different racial backgrounds together to build long-lasting relationships Diversity Initiative Program, Florida International University A Miami, FL program that implements efforts that promote diversity on a university campus Community in Contact A Bridgeport, CT program that engages individuals, churches and the community in dialogues on race The Children's Outreach Center An East Palo Alto, CA center that works with children and mothers to promote self-esteem Center for Prejudice Reduction A Great Neck, NY center that operates a clearinghouse of information on combating bigotry and discrimination BRIDGES: A School Inter Ethnic Relations Program A Santa Ana, CA program that values racial and ethnic diversity in schools Start Up An East Palo Alto, CA program that encourages the growth of small minority-owned businesses in the area The Race Relations Institute of Fisk University A Nashville, TN institute committed to sponsoring forums on race relations Public Allies A Washington, D.C. program that encourages young people to become involved in community-service projects The Plan to Foster Minority Representation and Participation in Physical Therapy An Alexandria, VA organization that sponsors workshops, mentoring programs, and an awards ceremony to promote cultural understanding among physical therapists Students Talk About Race A Los Angeles, CA program that works with college, middle and high school students on how to discuss the issue of race Santos Rodriguez Project A Seattle, WA project that studies Chicano/Latino/Mexicano history and the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Of Many Colors: Portraits of Multiracial Families A traveling photographic exhibit that celebrates racial diversity in the American family Northwest Coalition Against Malicious Harassment A Seattle, WA coalition committed to ending discriminatory violence and organized bigotry Dialogue: Racism A Houston, TX program that seeks to end prejudice and racism by examining stereotypes, overt racism and subtle racism Community Change, Inc. A Boston, MA program that works to end racism in the city The Coalition For Mutual Respect A New Rochelle, NY organization that sponsors activities to bring together blacks and Jews in the area Bridges Across Racial Polarization A St. Louis, MO organization that sponsors programs to encourage cross-racial relationships CommUNITY Pride The E. Jackson, Ohio-based organization was formed by local citizens in 1994 to recognize and strengthen the abilities of the citizens of the Appalachian Ohio communities. Community Diversity Appreciation Teams The Columbia, Iowa-based program was founded in 1994 by the Iowa Civil Rights Commission to develop community-wide plans to fight discrimination and teach the value of diversity. Citizens Upholding Racial Equality The Freemont, Ohio-based organizations was created in October 1996 by the First Presbyterian Church in Freemont to discuss racial issues in the city. City Year The Boston-based program began in 1988 to generate community service projects that break down social barriers, inspire citizens to civic action, develop new leaders for the common good, and improve and promote the concept of voluntary national service. Chicanos Por La Causa The Phoenix-based organization is a community development corporation formed in 1969 by concerned Hispanic citizens to address social issues in their community. Asian Neighborhood Design, Inc. The San Francisco-based organization operates programs that focus on business development, employment training, and housing and community development. Arizona Opportunities Industrialization Center The Phoenix-based center increases the education and economic opportunities of low-income Phoenix area residents by providing various skills training and education programs. Alternatives in Medicine: HIGH School Exposure Program A program in Dallas that provides underrepresented minority high school students with access to information about and exposure to minority role models in the health profession. ALANA - (African, Latino, Asian, Native and American) A Brattleboro, Vt.-based program that brings together communities of color and government institutions by addressing various social issues in a culturally sensitive manner. Action for a Better Community A Denver-based organization founded in 1992 to campaign for the improvement of living conditions of minorities in Colorado. Young Heroes Program The Boston-based program was created in 1995 to unite sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade students from all racial and socioeconomic backgrounds to perform community service. Summer of Unity and Liberation (SOUL) The San Francisco-based company grew out of the 1995 student movement at the University of California-Berkeley to support affirmative action. Project Change The program addresses racial prejudice and institutional racism in Levi Strauss & Company plant communities. Marathon County Diversity Management Education Program The Wisconsin-based program educates county government employees on the value of diversity. Human Relations Council The Illinois-based council began in October 1995 in response to the growing diversity of the county's population. Healing Racism Institute The Little Rock-based institute is one of the primary education efforts of the Racial and Cultural Diversity Commission, a local organization formed in 1994 to improve race relations in Little Rock. Cradleboard Teaching Project The Hawaii-based project nurtures the self-esteem of both Indian and non-Indian children by improving cultural awareness and relations. National Coalition Building Institute The Washington, D.C.-based institute is a nonprofit leadership-training organization founded in 1984 that eliminates prejudice and intergroup conflict in communities around the country. Wind River Initiative The Laramie, Wyo.-based initiative was created to establish a formal link between the University of Wyoming and the Wind River Indian Reservation. South Carolina Links The South Carolina-based organization is a coalition of four organizations that united to seek redress for crimes committed against racial and ethnic residents in South Carolina. Reaching Out This TV program was produced following 10 weekly town-hall meetings that were held in Oakland, California in 1991. Racism Awareness Program, Akron, PA The Akron-based program was created in 1993 to create a network of Mennonite and Brethren individuals in churches around the country who would be committed to ending racism in their communities. Phoenix Indian Center The Phoenix-based center is a multi-faceted social service organization that provides employment training, education and support services to a predominantly American Indian population. 3 Valleys Project: A Project of the Common Enterprise The Oregon-based project is a two-year project designed to build bridges of understanding and community and civic engagement among people of different cultures. Oakland Citizens Committee for Urban Renewal The Oakland-based committee was founded in 1954 to address the city's transition to an ethnically and economically diverse community. New Majority Joint Venture Initiative The New York-based initiative brings together business owners from minority communities to improve communications and promote sustainable business relations. Multi-Cultural Advisory Committee on the Media The Chicago-based committee serves as a resource for all of the Chicago metropolitan area's print and electronic media on issues of race, ethnicity and religion. Men Against Destruction - Defending Against Drugs and Social Disorder (MAD DADS) The Omaha-based organization was founded in 1989 to address the well-being of young people in the community. Imagine South Carolina The Charleston-based organization is a six-year statewide effort created in 1996 to increase public dialogue on the issue of race. The Illinois Ethnic Coalition The Chicago-based coalition was created in 1971 to bring together Chicago's white ethnic, African American, Asian and Latino communities to work together on projects of common concern. Hope in the Cities The Richmond-based organization is an interracial, multi-faith network that bridges racial divides by hosting a series of constructive dialogues on race and ensuring the participation of government and non-governmental personnel in the dialogue. Help Increase the Peace Project Project The Kansas City, Mo.-based project was developed in 1990 by the American Friends Service Committee staff in Syracuse, New York, to address violence in schools. Human Efforts at Relating Together (HEART) Program The Los Angeles-based program was created in 1991 to encourage and train youth as conflict-resolution facilitators in on-campus disputes. The Fulfillment Fund The Los Angeles-based organization assists disadvantaged students in completing high school and advancing their education. Democracy Resource Center The Lexington-based center began in 1990 under the auspices of the Kentucky Local Governance Project to encourage residents to take a greater interest and involvement in local government. Maricopa Integrated Health System (MISS) Customer Service and Cultural Diversity Program A Phoenix, AZ based program that educates health care providers to be aware of and sensitive to different cultural norms and mores. Montana Human Rights Network (MHRN) A Billings, MT based organization established to research and expose the racist and anti-Semetic practices of white supremacist groups in Montana. Minnesota Churches Anti-Racism Initiative of the Greater Minneapolis and Saint Paul Area Councils of Churches A Minneapolis, MN based effort that engages local chuches in dialogue and training opportunities to combat individual and institutional racism. Grow Your Own, Ohio Projects for a Diversified Teaching Force An Ohio Department of Education program to increase diversity in the teaching workforce by means of a long-term mentoring relationship with students who possess college potential through early exposure to the university environment. The University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC): A Comprehensive Diversity Initiative A University of Kansas Medical Center initiative designed to address diversity issues from a personal, professional and organizational perspective. Uniting Neighbors in Truth and Equality (UNITE) A Huntington, WV organization -- made up of representatives from state and local governments, educational institutions, and businesses -- that support programs that promote diversity awareness and racial reconciliation. The North Carolina Students Teach and Reach Program A North Carolina based program that trains college students to facilitate discussions on race in North Carolina secondary schools. It's US: A Celebration of Who We Are in America Today A Time Magazine inspired diversity effort that provides a traveling photographic exhibition designed specifically for schools, communities and families to encourage discussion on diversity and race relations. Not in Our Town Campaign A media campaign that uses solution-oriented documentaries to demonstrate how individuals can help stop hate motivated violence and intolerance through personal action. Operation Understanding DC A Washington, DC based program that works to rebuild the Black-Jewish alliance by training youth to actively fight racism, anti-Semitism and all forms of discrimination. Hands Across Cultures Corp. An Espanola, NM effort that brings together businesses, schools and community members in a coalition that supports activities designed to improve the health and social well being of minority youth. Task Force on Police and Urban Youth, U.S. Department of Justice's Community Relations Service, An U.S. Justice Department Community Relations Service (CRS) project to bring together police officials, youth advocacy agencies and academicians to address the considerable tension between police and minority youth throughout New England. Kentucky Commission On Human Rights -"A Conversation on Race," A Louisville, KY based effort to generate public discussion of race issues by conducting statewide live broadcasts of conversations on race. A 1-800 number allows citizens to call in after the shows with comments and ideas on concerning race. Samuel S. Fels Cluster of the Philadelphia School District A Philadelphia School District effort that trains teachers to address the needs of their culturally diverse students and offers programs to engage students, parents and school staff in projects that celebrate diversity. Leadership Development in Interethnic Relations A Los Angeles, CA based program that uses adult training, youth training and alumni activities to equip people with the skills and background to effectively address race relations in their own communities. Tools for Tolerance for Professionals, Biet Hashoah Museum of Tolerance A Los Angeles, CA based seminar program designed to raise public awareness of intolerance and to help professionals--including law enforcement officers, educators, attorneys, city employees, health care providers and social workers--become more sensitive to their clients' needs. Interfaith Action for Racial Justice Inc. A Baltimore, MD based coalition that brings nearly 110 organizations (from business, civil rights, educational, ethnic, religious, and community institutions) together to work on racial reconciliation projects involving education,employment, housing and transportation issues. Memphis Race Relations and Diversity Institute A Memphis, TN based effort to better city race relations through diversity-awareness training and other opportunities that promote discussion of diversity-related issues. OpNet: The Multimedia Opportunities Program A San Francisco, CA based program designed to assist economically disadvantaged minorities gain employment in the multimedia industry by providing participants with resources, training and internships. The Common Ground Program A New Orleans, LA based program designed to create and facilitate discussions on race relations. A primary emphasis of the program is in training participants to become moderators for discussions on race. Community-Based Fire Protection Program, Los Angeles Fire Department A Los Angeles Fire Department effort to promote community and involvement and better integrate itself into Los Angeles' socially and ethnically diverse communities through a variety of education and outreach projects. The Bridging the Gap Project, Inc. An Atlanta, GA area project designed to improve the quality of life of Georgia's refugee and immigrant communities through crisis intervention, education and youth outreach. Central and South Florida Higher Education Diversity Coalition A Miami, FL area effort to better incorporate diversity programs in participating colleges and universities through interscholastic dialogue and the sharing of best practices. Student Unity Task Force A Columbia, SC effort to increase racial awareness and tolerance among high school students by providing training sessions focused on diversity issues, cross-cultural communication skills and conflict resolution skills for students, faculty and administrators in every public high school in Richland County. (Two private high schools are also involved.) Program on Intergroup Relations, Conflict, and Community A University of Michigan effort involving classes, dialogue sessions, work shops and training programs to promote constructive cross-racial dialogue and interaction between students. The Cleveland Residential Housing and Mortgage Credit Project A Cleveland, OH area effort to bring local bankers, mainstream and minority realtors, appraisers, insurers, and others involved in the home mortgage market area together to reduce barriers to racially equitable home ownership. The Coming Together Project An Akron, OH effort that brings more than 200 organizations together to operate various programs -- including workshops, an annual "Race/Walk,"" public forums, and a speakers bureau -- to improve race relations. Moving Toward Community A University of Maryland at UMCP effort to make diversity a more pervasive part of the campus community by coordinating diversity activities in a single, united effort. PRIDE: Power Represented by Individuals who value Diversity and Equality An Abington Friends School effort to foster discussions on race, promote conflict resolution, and celebrate different cultures. Project Harmony A Volusia County, FL effort involving classroom training and weekend retreats, designed to cultivate student leaders in middle school and to promote ethnic harmony. DuPage Media and Community Network A Wheaton, IL effort that brings religious and media leaders together to review, discuss and improve the representation of people of color in the media. Team Harmony A Boston, MA annual, multi-media event combining entertainment, education and inspiration to help young people learn to respect one another's differences. National Organizations Cultural Diversity Fieldbook Network Project An Amherst, MA project that produces publications that feature essays on racial diversity National Catholic Conference for Interracial Justice A Washington, DC program that promotes civil rights issues within the Roman Catholic Church United National Indian Tribal Youth, Inc The Oklahoma City-based program was formed in 1976 to promote unity within individual families and tribes, and also among American Indian tribes and other peoples. "Skin Deep" This documentary film was made in 1995 in response to increasing racial tensions and incidents of racial violence on college campuses. The Leadership Conference Education Fund The Washington, D.C.-based program was established in 1969 to support educational activities relevant to civil rights issues. Anytown The program is an award-winning summer program created by The National Conference for youth and emerging leaders to focus on reducing prejudice and increasing understanding among people of different races and ethnicities. -ISM (N.) National Diversity Project A North Carolina based project that uses multimedia communication efforts to build young people's civic skills for working together across the lines of difference and utilizing diversity as a strength. The Center for Living Democracy The Center publishes information that provides practical lessons and success stories that help lead to cross-cultural collaboration in solving community problems. The Study Circles Resource Center The Center helps communities use study circles to involve large numbers of citizens in public dialogue and problem solving on critical issues such as race. The Teaching Tolerance Project The project offers free, high-quality educational materials to help teachers promote interracial and intercultural harmony in the classroom and beyond. The National Conference The Conference fights bias, bigotry, and racism in America through a variety of programs and workshops. A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE Institute The Institute coordinates diversity education programs for schools, universities, corporations, community organizations, and law enforcement agencies in an effort to combat prejudice, promote democratic ideals, and strengthen pluralism. Facing History and Ourselves A non-profit foundation devoted to helping middle and high school students by teaching about the dangers of indifference and the values of civility. We will try to keep the information timely and accurate and will correct errors brought to our attention. Inclusion of a program or activity does not constitute an endorsement of the program or organization. ---------- Community Efforts Project/Effort Name: | <___> Sponsoring Organization: | <___> Contact Name: | <___> Address: | <___> <___> Phone #: | ( <__> ) <__>- <___> Fax #: | ( <__> ) <__>- <___> E-Mail: | <___> Project operates in which sector (check all that apply): [_] business [_] government [_] criminal justice [_] media [_] other(please list) <___> [_] non-profit [_] religious [_] education [_] individuals/families Participants (check all that apply): [_] Black or African American [_] Hispanic or Latino [_] White [_] American Indian or Alaska Native [_] Asian Islander [_] Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander Participants' age ranges (check all that apply): [_] 0-13 [_] 13-25 [_] 26-40 [_] 41-55 [_] 56+ Primary project activity (check all that apply): [_] Dialogue -- forums designed for the exchange of ideas, feelings, and perspectives about race and related issues to improve race relations amongst different groups. [_] Action -- activities that directly reduce existing disparities between racial groups. [_] Education -- delivery of historical and/or current facts regarding race and related issues. [_] Other (please describe): <___> Project activities are intended to affect (check all that apply): [_] individual attitudes/behavior [_] workplace/organization internal environment [_] organization or workplace practices [_] policy of government agency or office (please specify): <___> [_] other (please specify): <___> Purpose: 1. When did the program start and why? 2. What was the program or activity designed to accomplish? 3. Please describe the activities in which participants engage. Please describe what participants learn and/or do as part of the program. Impact: 4. What people and/or institutions benefit from the program most directly? (e.g., program participants, empoyees, or general community) 5. Who indirectly benefits from the program? Project Lessons: 6. What are the most important elements of this program that you feel another community or organization should have before trying to adopt this program in their community? 7. Please describe lessons you have learned through this project that might be valuable to other communities engaged in similar efforts. What worked best? What would you do differently? What were your most valuable resources? What were your biggest challenges and how did you over come them? 8. Please share any other information you want us to know about the program. ---------- One America Program: | Two Towns: One Community, Maplewood and South Orange, NJ Contact(s): | Barbara Heisler Williams, Executive Director: 1-800-CLOSE BY Purpose: | To develop a strategy to promote enhanced and sustained racial balance in the community's living patterns and housing market Background | Program Operations | Outcomes Background In 1996, the adjacent communities of Maplewood and South Orange, N.J., decided to address the changing racial demographics in their two towns. First, they created a study group to examine the issue. They then sought the help of outside experts to advise them on integration maintenance programs. The Maplewood/South Orange Racial Balance Task Force was created in May 1997 to achieve racial balance in the demand for housing and living patterns sustaining Maplewood and South Orange as communities of choice for everyone, regardless of race. Program Operations The Maplewood/South Orange Racial Balance Task Force has initiated an intervention of pro-integrative moves to stem racial resegregation. The task force: 1.) affirmatively markets the communities of Maplewood and South Orange in order to prevent re-segregation, 2.) promotes the inclusion of people of color in the leadership of civic and community organizations and 3.) encourages dialogue within the community on race and race-related issues. The task force fosters a brokers program in which local real estate agents support showing homes to underrepresented races. It also tests local real estate practices to ensure that there is no racial steering. Outcomes and Significant Accomplishments Through an on-going series of public forums, the task force has engaged the community in several discussions on race and residence. According to task force members, the housing market in the community has not only stabilized but flourished. In late 1997, they had succeeded in having one-third fewer homes on the market than in 1996. The task force has garnered widespread, community support, with 12 active committees involving hundreds of participants in its events. In October 1997, the task force formed the Community Coalition of South Orange and Maplewood to accommodate all of the volunteers who wanted to participate in the activities. The task force also maintains a Website at: www.nj.com/twotowns. ---------- One America Program: | Amistad Research Center, New Orleans, LA Contact(s): | Donald E. DeVore, Executive Director: (504) 865-5535 Purpose: | To collect information about the history of African Americans and other ethnic minorities Background | Program Operations | Outcomes Background "Preserving America's Ethnic Heritage" is the founding premise of the Amistad Research Center, an archive of manuscripts that documents the rich history and contributions of African Americans and other ethnic groups. The program began in 1966 at Fisk University and in 1970 moved to New Orleans where it serves as a premier research institution for the study of African American and other ethnic groups. Program Operations The Amistad Research Center's collection dates from the 1700's to the present. Almost 90 percent of the collection pertains to African Americans; 10 percent contains documentation on Native Americans, Asians, Hispanics and European Immigrants. The center holds letters, journals, books and photographs in the collection. It also holds archives of the American Missionary Association, and the Louisiana NAACP. Scholars, journalists and educators from around the world use Amistad's collection each year, and thousands more visit to view the art exhibits and tour the facility. Historical subjects such as slavery, black community development and civil rights have undergone new and thought-provoking interpretations because of the Amistad Research Center. Monthly lectures featuring local scholars, visual, literary and performing artists are a part of the center's outreach efforts. The lecture programs attracts over 2500 members from around the city as well as reaching out to children from poor African American communities to teach them about historical tales and events. Outcomes and Significant Accomplishments Amistad has the largest independent archive committed to fostering improved race relations, and it has more than 12 million documents and 800 original works of art and artifacts in its possession, which are routinely used by as many as 50 organizations a year. The program has produced many lectures, conferences, community programs and art exhibitions. The Visiting Artist In Residence series has brought many artists to their program. In 1996, Amistad co-hosted the Plessey Conference, celebrating the 100th anniversary of civil rights pioneer, Homer Plessey. ---------- One America Program: | Publicolor, New York, NY Contact(s): | Ruth Lande Shuman, President & Founder: (212) 722-2448 Purpose: | To organize volunteer painters to use the power of color to transform public spaces Background | Program Operations | Outcomes Background Publicolor was founded by industrial designer Ruth Lande Shuman as a way of engaging young people in their education by involving them in making their schools warm and inviting places through the imaginative use of color. Through Publicolor, dismal public spaces can be transformed into places of hope, energy and transformation. Publicolor is a nonprofit organization with a mission to organize a community of volunteer painters to use the power of color to transform public spaces, most especially in impoverished neighborhoods. Because the participants of the program are multiracial--Asian, African American, Hispanic, African, Haitian, Caribbean, Caucasian, Dominican and Ecuadorian, Publicolor also creates multicultural coalitions within schools, helping to ease racial tensions. In July 1997, Publicolor won a contract with the New York City Board of Education to transform up to 15 schools in the city for $15,000 per school. Program Operations Publicolor organizes students, teachers, parents and community members in paint clubs at each school, meeting after school and on Saturdays for 8-12 weeks to prime and paint hallways, stairwells, cafeterias and entrance halls. Club members agree on which colors they would like to use in order to celebrate the diversity represented in their schools. Over a period of time, members of the paint club learn good work habits, leadership skills, the value of collaboration, how to paint like professionals, thus developing a potentially marketable skill. After the original assignment, paint club members continue to hone this skill on Saturday paint projects within their own neighborhoods in community centers, homeless shelters and medical facilities. Corporate and community volunteers painting alongside students act as mentors. Outcomes and Significant Accomplishments According to outside evaluations and feedback from school administrators, some significant transformations take place inside these schools. The more vibrant and positive environment created by Publicolor leads to an improved attitude for both students and teachers alike and a sense of pride and ownership replace feelings of abandonment. Students also reported having a stronger sense of cultural identity. A recent evaluation by Bank Street Teachers College notes that students feel safer in a school transformed by Publicolor, that the incidents of graffiti are reduced and the rise in morale leads to better attendance records which in turn lead to better reading and math scores. The rise in self-esteem observed in paint club members who begin and end a project together leads Publicolor to conclude that color, community, commitment and completion is a formula for success. ---------- One America Program: | The Urban Coalition, Community Information Clearinghouse, St. Paul, MN Contact(s): | Yusef Mgeni, President, or Susan Zoff, Communications Officer: (612)348-8550 Purpose: | To provide low-income communities with access to timely information and research about their communities Background | Program Operations | Outcomes Background In 1992, the Community Information Clearinghouse was started by the Urban Coalition to provide community groups with access to data and information. (The Urban Coalition is a non-profit research and advocacy organization that works with the low-income communities of color to address political, economic and social issues that are identified in the areas of education, employment, health, and poverty.) Initially, the data focused on 1990 Census, but in time the program became inclusive of local and state government data. Now in its sixth year of operation, the program works in conjunction with many organizations throughout Minnesota. Program Operations The staff of the Community Information Clearinghouse consists of the vice president for research and a research associate who have expertise in immigration, census analysis and housing. There is an advisory committee that includes both research experts and representatives of community organizations that routinely use data resources. The advisory committee and staff bring together public agencies and nonprofit groups concerned with the evaluation of welfare reform and the dissemination of information on the impact of housing, transportation, employment and other issues. Outcomes and Significant Accomplishments In the last six years of operation, the Urban Coalition's Community Information Clearinghouse has assisted over 300 organizations throughout the state of Minnesota. Staff have consulted with over 75 organizations in the past year and have helped to provide grants for information projects. Their accomplishments include a publication, "Minnesota Populations of Color: Health Status," which provides specific information about communities of color and health care. In October 1997, staff also organized the third annual Information for Change Conference, which attracted over 120 participants from around the country. During the conference, sessions dealt with subjects ranging from organizing welfare reform through the use of the Internet and the best ways to find information. ---------- One America Program: | Unity in the Community, Manassas, VA Contact(s): | Deborah Bass Rubenstein, Chair: (703)791-3404 Purpose: | To cultivate cross-cultural understandings and educate the public about the laws and consequences of hate crimes Background | Program Operations | Outcomes Background Unity in the Community was created in 1996 in response to a spate of racist and anti-Semitic incidents, including circulation of Ku Klux Klan fliers, the burning of a Korean business, and the stalking conviction of a neo-Nazi against his black landlady. It was initially designed to call public attention to these problems, but the organization later felt the need to work with religious and community groups to address racial and religious intolerance. Program Operations Unity in the Community consists of more than 250 individuals, families, religious leaders, and community groups committed to community action. It organizes several events, which include staging annual educational forums and providing speakers for community events. In addition to planning talks with police and/or lawyers to find solutions, the project also actively pursues appropriate legislative changes. Working with community agencies allows the project to educate the public about the roles they can play in dealing with these types of problems. The project works with the school system to increase awareness and understanding of the contributions of all racial, ethnic, and religious groups. Outcomes and Significant Accomplishments The project has served as a foundation for a multitude of concrete outcomes, and its efforts have increased community response to hate crimes and activities. Unity in the Community obtained anti-hate resolutions from local governments as well as a zero tolerance policy from the Prince William County Board of Supervisors. It also achieved passage of hate crime legislation in Virginia. The county police developed a brochure on hate crimes to educate the public. They also implemented a worship watch program where the sheriff and his deputies knocked on every door in the area targeted in an attempt to find perpetrators who had circulated KKK fliers. Paralleling the project's goal of educating people about anti-bias skills, cultural diversity, and basic human rights, the Prince William County schools are conducting educational institutes for teachers on different races and religions. ---------- One America Program: | Support Training Results In Valuable Employment, New York, NY Contact(s): | Rob Carmona, Executive Director: (212) 360-1100 Purpose: | To train inner-city residents in securing private sector jobs Background | Program Operations | Outcomes Background Support Training Results In Valuable Employment (STRIVE), established in 1984, provides young adults who have experienced difficulty in securing and maintaining employment with the tools to successfully enter the job market. Working in conjunction with several other community-based organizations, STRIVE is a nationally recognized program operating in Boston, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Philadelphia and Fort Lauderdale. Its central office is in East Harlem, New York. Program Operations STRIVE operates a three-week long job readiness workshop based on positive attitude and good communication skills that are essential for finding and maintaining employment. The training model emphasizes rigorous self-examination, critical thinking, management relationships and team building as a means to increase participants' sense of empowerment. STRIVE also offers a career development program called Access Support and Advancement Partnership (ASAP) for graduates who have successfully maintained employment for eight months. ASAP provides training to help program participants advance in the labor market and acquire livable wage jobs in growth industries. Evening-hour training sessions are available to better suit program participants' work schedules. Outcomes and Significant Accomplishments While most of its clientele is African American and Latinos, STRIVE works with all young adults. Eighty percent of STRIVE graduates are consistently placed in jobs, and 75-80% of those placed are able to retain employment for at least two years. In 1997, STRIVE's New York-based operations placed 2,639 young men and women in private sector jobs. The most recent quarterly follow-up showed that roughly 77% were still employed. ---------- One America Program: | Sponsor-A-Scholar, Philadelphia, PA Contact(s): | Debra Kahn, Executive Director: (215) 790-1666 Purpose: | To expand, through education, life options and opportunities for low- income Philadelphia youth Background | Program Operations | Outcomes Background Philadelphia Futures was founded in 1989 to assist public school students to stay in school, excel in their studies and pursue college and careers. The organization currently operates as an affiliate of the Greater Philadelphia Urban Affairs Coalition, which is a civic, business and community organization with a long history and solid record of promoting racial understanding and advancing opportunities for minorities. Philadelphia Futures created the Sponsor-A-Scholar (SAS) program to provide constructive educational environments for students. More than 80% of SAS students are African American, 10% are Hispanic, and about 5% are Asian American and white. Program Operations Sponsor-A-Scholar is Philadelphia Future's centerpiece program. The program matches at-risk youth with mentors who provide one-on-one long-term mentoring for five years, beginning in the ninth grade. Participants must be economically disadvantaged, at a middle level of academic achievement, and exhibit motivation as well as have an interest in attending college. Mentors and students meet monthly, and keep in frequent phone contact between visits. Mentors also monitor students' academic progress, help with financial aid and college applications, and stay in contact with the SAS staff. Because SAS recognizes that mentoring alone cannot provide everything to at-risk students, students participate in academic enrichment activities including summer travel, campus programs, cultural events and career exploration workshops. They also participate in a complete program of college preparatory activities including SAT workshops, campus visits and financial aid seminars. Each student who completes the program requirements and is enrolled in college has access to a $6,000 fund for college-related expenses. Financial sponsors include individuals, businesses, private organizations, public agencies, religious and higher education institutions. Currently, 12 communities have adopted the SAS model with information and technical assistance provided by Philadelphia Futures. Outcomes and Significant Accomplishments About 450 students and adults have participated in the program. To date, 92% of SAS seniors entered college immediately after graduation from high school; 86% of those students also began their sophomore year. In 1994, SAS was honored by President Clinton with a Volunteer Action Award. For additional information, look at the Website, www.libertynet.org/~sasphila. ---------- One America Program: | "Shades of L.A.", Pasadena, CA Contact(s): | Ilsa Setziol, producer, KPCC-FM: (626) 585-7564 Purpose: | To use radio to elicit a conversation on race Background | Program Operations | Outcomes Background Broadcast for the first time on October 11, 1995, "Shades of L.A." was heard across Los Angeles County by more than 30,000 people. That broadcast was the beginning of a weekly series of nine live, town-hall shows intended to bring together Southern Californians from many ethnic backgrounds for dialogue. The program was funded by a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities. Program Operations "Shades of L.A." is intended to bring people who would not normally have access to media together to discuss issues important to their community. Each program begins with a 10-minute audio documentary that serves as a conversation starter. Topic questions are then asked and discourse among the audience, scholarly guests and listeners follow. Listeners play an active role in discussing race relations in Los Angeles, and they discuss what methods are available to improve these relations. Outcomes and Significant Accomplishments Since the program started, the audience has continually grown. Up to 200 people have participated in one broadcast. The success of this program has prompted its expansion. In 1996, two similar programs were broadcast by students from the Pasadena City College and plans are underway for a national version of this program. ---------- One America Program: | Shades of Grey, West Bend, WI Contact(s): | Dr. Robert Goldenberg, Executive Director: (888) 735-1730 or (734) 665-7771 Purpose: | To teach children about the value of diversity and tolerance through the use of media Background | Program Operations | Outcomes Background Created in response to the Los Angeles disturbances of 1992, the Shades of Grey program, operated by the Foundation for the Humanities, assists public schools in Los Angeles with the procurement and use of video conferencing technologies and computers to help educators increase learning across cultural, ethnic and community lines. The philosophy behind the program is that, in order to combat prejudice and racism, people must educate children on the importance of diversity. Program Operations Shades of Grey is currently engaged in the production of several multi-media events and products. With diversity as its theme, the program has produced a documentary film, sponsored a series of concerts, published a photo essay, and produced an album and CD. As part of its activities, Shades of Grey also sponsors a speakers tour and a series of sporting events that promote diversity. These events are then supported by a series of commercial television and print advertising campaigns. Outcomes and Significant Accomplishments Shades of Grey publishes a magazine, The Shades, that focuses on promoting cultural diversity. A percentage of the magazine's proceeds is donated to the Foundation for the Humanities and earmarked for the Shades Tolerance and Educational Fund. The Website is: www.shadesofgrey.org. ---------- One America Program: | Seeking Common Ground, Denver, CO Contact(s): | Melodye Feldman, Executive Director: (303) 388-4013 Purpose: | To create peace among individuals and within communities through integration, communication, socialization and leadership development Background | Program Operations | Outcomes Background Established in 1994, Seeking Common Ground (SCG) was founded by two social work students who saw the value in bringing together people representing diverse communities. The program purposely focuses on communication, because the SCG staff believes that real change comes through personal contact. They begin at the individual level, and expect participants to utilize their various programs as a catalyst for moving to the local, national and international levels. Program Operations SCG operates several types of programs including the Building Bridges for Peace Program, which is a 20-day intensive residential program, half-day and day-long workshops, and a year-long youth leadership program. One of the most recognized programs, Building Bridges for Peace, initially brought together Palestinian, Israeli, and American high school women in a mountain retreat that lasted for 3 weeks. The American students involved reflected the diversity of the greater Denver community. Participants lived in integrated cabins where they discussed and shared their unique cultural world views. After completing the program, both the Denver participants and the Middle Eastern participants met monthly in their respective countries, and the two groups maintained contact through SCG. The program has since been conducted with participants from diverse racial, cultural, religious and political communities within the United States. Outcomes and Significant Accomplishments To date, more than 200 young women have participated in the Building Bridges for Peace program, and thousands of people have attended workshops and presentations. SCG constantly measures their success through written evaluations, observations, and direct contact with participants. After completing a required training course, 50 past participants of SCG's programs have joined their speakers bureau. The experience of the young women who participated in the initial Building Bridges for Peace program has been documented and published in both local and national newspapers such as The Denver Post and The New York Times. The program has also been featured on all four Denver television stations. ---------- One America Program: | Pro-integrative Consultation, Philadelphia, PA Contact(s): | Don DeMarco, Executive Director, Fund for an OPEN Society: (215) 735-6915 Purpose: | To sustain racially integrated and balanced living patterns by providing guidance to local communities at risk of resegregation Background | Program Operations | Outcomes Background Civil rights legend James Farmer and pro-integration housing developer Morris Milgram established the Fund for an OPEN Society (OPEN) in 1975 as a charitable nonprofit corporation with the purpose of promoting racial integration in housing. Initially they offered mortgage loans to people who bought homes in neighborhoods where minorities were underrepresented. By early 1996, OPEN redesigned their programs to provide technical assistance to communities that were interested in integrated housing. OPEN decided to established the Pro-integrative Consultation (PIC) service to provide subsidized technical assistance to local governments and nonprofits concerned about the diversity of their communities. Program Operations OPEN's PIC provides guidance in strategic planning and program development for clients interested in securing stable racial diversity in their neighborhoods. PIC services are provided on site and electronically under the guidance of staff with more than three decades experience with pro-integrative program development in an assortment of communities, both urban and suburban. PIC provides individualized guidance in dealing with the challenges and obstacles that clients must grapple with as they seek to outreach to underrepresented groups. They organize communities on issues surrounding fair housing opportunities by informing their clients of the many opportunities to become first-time home buyers while encouraging integrated housing. Outcomes and Significant Accomplishments One of the PIC's indicators of successful outcomes has been the increase in home purchasing power by minority groups as well as the stabilization and appreciation of minority-owned property values. Since 1996, PIC has worked in several suburban communities and city neighborhoods, bringing minorities and non-minorities together. Two communities in New Jersey, Maplewood and South Orange, have been particularly successful at integrated communities. ---------- One America Program: | Peace Games, Sommerville, MA Contact(s): | Eric Dawson, Executive Director: (617) 628-5555 Purpose: | To create safe schools and prevent violence by promoting cooperation, communication and respect Background | Program Operations | Outcomes Background Peace Games was established in 1992 on the belief that young people have both the power and the responsibility to change the world and create safe schools. Through teaching the ideals of cooperation, respect for differences and personal responsibility, Peace Games provides children and families with the skills, language and supportive relationships to create safe schools and combat the ills of violence and racism. Program Operations Recognizing that violence and bigotry are learned behaviors, Peace Games begins educating children in kindergarten. By reaching children early and consistently as an integrated part of their education, Peace Games is able to build the knowledge and relationships necessary for establishing safe, healthy schools. The program has created long-term partnerships with nine Boston area elementary and middle schools located in different neighborhoods. One of Peace Games' activities is the Pen-pal Program, which creates a bridge between these various neighborhoods and allows students from different racial and ethnic backgrounds to share their Peace Games and school experiences. Pen-pals have the opportunity to meet in person and collaborate on projects at the annual Peace Games Festival. In addition, for one hour each week, a diverse staff of college volunteers teach a multi-year, experiential K-8 violence prevention curriculum. Activities that the curriculum utilizes include role playing and games. The curriculum is unique in that it challenges students to put their education into action through designing and executing community-service projects related to increasing safety at their schools and in their communities. At the end of the year, students from each of the schools come together to share both their community-service projects and the lessons they have learned. Working with students of diverse backgrounds, children communicate and cooperate cross-culturally while simultaneously exploring creative solutions to problems. Outcomes and Significant Accomplishments After participating in the program in 1997, 85% of the students said Peace Games taught them how to resolve conflicts without fighting, and 95% of the teachers felt Peace Games taught their students skills for resolving conflicts. In 1998, the program will mobilize over 250 college students to deliver nearly 40,000 hours of teaching and service to over 1,600 elementary and middle school students. By May 1998, these students will have designed and implemented hundreds of projects to make their school a more peaceful place. ---------- End of Document