Title
MOTION TO APPROVE A FACILITY USE AGREEMENT WITH FATHER'S M.I.A, INC. FOR THE USE OF PORTIONS OF THE VILLAGE COMMUNITY CENTER TO PROVIDE IMPACTFUL PROGRAMS TO EMPOWER YOUTH AND STRENGTHEN FAMILIES WITHIN THE CITY
Summary Explanation and Background
SUMMARY EXPLANATION AND BACKGROUND:
1. The City owns and operates the Village Community Center, located at 6700 SW 13th Street. Currently, the facility is offered as a hall rental for weekend events. Although city staff has tried implementing various programs at the center, none have had sustained success. The space is also shared with Choices for Life, Inc., a school offering an adult training program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
2. The City has supported Father’s M.I.A. since 2019 by sponsoring their annual “As We Honor Her” banquet.
3. Father’s M.I.A. has approached the City seeking assistance in finding a permanent location for their Youth Empowerment Programming and Fatherhood Program. At present, the organization operates from various locations throughout the county to provide its services.
4. The Youth Empowerment Program is a transformative initiative designed to support high school students in grades 9-12, particularly those lacking active father figures due to circumstances such as incarceration, abandonment, or death. Through strategic partnerships with local high schools and community advisors, the program identifies and recruits youth to participate in structured 6-week sessions held throughout the year. These sessions focus on critical life skills, including self-identity, emotional intelligence, career exploration, financial literacy, community engagement, and college readiness. By addressing both educational and emotional needs, the program empowers youth to build resilience, develop leadership skills, and become confident, proactive members of society. A unique aspect of the Youth Empowerment Program is its dual approach, combining practical educationa...
Click here for full text