A
faith-based organization with non-denominational practices.
Although originating as an individual vision in January of 1993,
by founder, Rev. John Powell, Sr., it progressed into a community
initiative by November of the same year. An all volunteer staff
comprised of concerned citizens, educators, and businesses in
Pensacola, Florida, created an unconventional avenue to address
the traditional ills of their society. The avenue that was chosen
was "overnight lock-ins." The purpose
of the lock-ins was to provide social, civic, educational and
recreational activities for inner city, at-risk, underprivileged
youth ages six (6) to sixteen (16). The population that is targeted
for our program are economically distressed, low income, poverty
stricken areas. The youth from these areas are statistically
single parent households with little to no adult supervision,
no role models, nor authority figures present. The scope of
our program covers both Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.
The
strategy of our organization is to focus on prevention, intervention
and reduction of the rising incidents of delinquency, youth
violence, youth crime, gang activity and abuse. It
is structured to prevent drug and alcohol abuse,
child neglect, maltreatment, and teen pregnancy.
It also confronts issues of child poverty, illiteracy,
and negative generational cycles.
To
continue it's effectiveness in the community, TFY adopted additional
activities. These activities were designed to promote
and encourage academic excellence, moral and civic
responsibility, self esteem, positive self image, confidence,
pride, discipline, fortitude, and respect
for self and others.
The
objective of our program is to emphasize the importance of:
- a
safe, non-threatening environment
- diversity
in culture and background
- positive
interaction with peers and authority figures
- social
growth and personal development
- peaceful
conflict resolution
- good
hygiene and proper grooming standards
Our
overall success can be contributed towards our determination
in making learning an exciting and positive experience. We advocate
to youth, that "success through hard work " can be
achieved mentally, spiritually, physically, academically, socially
and economically. Our popularity is clearly evident and can
be verified by the attendance records at our activities. It
can also be justified by the support that's received from parents,
and the close relations that are fostered between partners and
existing community services. Close observation and attendance
records also reflect increased numbers of parent and family
involvement with our activities. That as well, is an indication
that our motto holds true, that "Working
together with children, we can make a difference."
