University Area Community Development Corporation

"prodigy cultural arts prodigy cultural arts is a pioneering initiative dedicated to the holistic Development of at-risk youth aged 5-18. At its core, prodigy is a research-driven prevention program leveraging the transformative power of visual and performing arts to equip young individuals with essential life skills. Through a curated curriculum encompassing communication, leadership, problem-solving, anger management, career aspirations, and goal setting, prodigy fosters an environment where participants can thrive.central to the prodigy experience are the cultural arts classes led by seasoned professionals who serve not only as instructors but also as mentors. By nurturing creativity and self-expression, these classes instill self-confidence and empower youth to showcase their talents while cultivating positive habits for long-term success. Independent research and endorsement from the Florida department of juvenile justice underscore prodigy's effectiveness, with over 98% of enrolled participants avoiding contact with law enforcement, and an impressive 89% not re-offending for minor offenses.in addition to its focus on youth, prodigy extends its impact through artreach activities tailored to individuals of all ages, with a special emphasis on older adults and seniors. Supported by diverse funding sources, artreach sessions offer a platform for creativity, mental stimulation, and social engagement, contributing significantly to overall well-being. Prodigy's commitment to Community enrichment is further evidenced by its remarkable reach and cost-efficiency. Having served over 45,000 youth in the past 22 years, prodigy's impact spans across west central Florida, yielding substantial annual savings of $160 million for the Florida department of juvenile justice. Remarkably, prodigy achieves this impact at an average cost of less than $1500 per student per year, positioning it as one of the most cost-effective prevention programs available.moreover, prodigy moves! Exemplifies the program's innovative approach by bringing mobile cultural arts classrooms directly to underserved youth in high-risk neighborhoods across seven counties in west central Florida. This mobile component ensures accessibility and inclusivity, bridging gaps and empowering communities through the transformative power of the arts.in summary, prodigy cultural arts stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity, offering a proven pathway for at-risk youth to unlock their full potential, while simultaneously enriching communities and fostering social cohesion through the universal language of art."

"workforce Development the University Area invest workforce program is dedicated to empowering individuals and families by facilitating access to resources that foster long-term self-sufficiency. Through a community-based approach, our program equips residents, including non-fluent english speakers, with the tools, knowledge, and support necessary to embark on successful career paths.central to our initiative is the provision of internet access, industry-specific training, and comprehensive job search assistance to help individuals initiate and navigate their employment journey effectively. Even those who are currently employed can benefit from our offerings by enhancing their skills, thereby positioning themselves for career advancement opportunities.our computer lab, accessible to the public on weekdays, serves as a vital resource hub, offering a myriad of services at no cost. From conducting research and seeking employment to obtaining certifications and participating in job training workshops, individuals can leverage the lab to enhance their employability and professional development.key features of the University Area invest workforce program include: unlimited access to computers and internet computer training 101 microsoft office certifications job readiness workshops job search assistance job placement assistance soft skills training industry-specific trainings and certificationsannually, our computer lab serves approximately 300 individuals, catering to their diverse needs, whether it be job search endeavors, skill Development, or application assistance. Given the prevalence of online job listings, access to a computer is indispensable for securing employment, and our program ensures that individuals have the necessary resources and support to navigate this process successfully.furthermore, our team provides personalized assistance, including guidance on crafting cover letters and resumes, discussing interview best practices, and facilitating follow-up communications with potential employers, thereby maximizing individuals' chances of securing meaningful employment opportunities.through the University Area invest workforce program, we are committed to empowering our Community members with the skills, knowledge, and resources needed to achieve their career goals and pave the way for long-term economic stability and prosperity."

"steps for successsteps for success is dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty by offering personalized guidance and tailored goal plans to individuals determined to improve their circumstances and move beyond reliance on government assistance. Through our one-on-one approach, steps navigators provide crucial support to mitigate crises, prevent homelessness, and stabilize program participants on their journey toward self-sufficiency.at the heart of steps for success are three essential planning tools:1. Prescription for prosperity: this comprehensive plan outlines pathways to educational training, career advancement, or entrepreneurship tailored to each individual's aspirations and potential for success.2. Individualized goal plan (igp): each participant receives a personalized roadmap for life improvement, featuring specific goals, deadlines, and strategies to overcome barriers identified in the prescription for prosperity.3. Network of support: regular meetings of this network facilitate discussions on progress toward igp goals and allow for adjustments to be made as needed, ensuring ongoing guidance and accountability.a recent collaboration with united way suncoast has bolstered our efforts, enabling the addition of a new navigator position and expanding our program's capacity to assist an additional 24 families annually.key statistics and facts about the steps for success program highlight its impact: 70% of enrolled families secure safe housing through our program, effectively preventing homelessness and providing stability for hundreds of individuals. 70% of participants find employment or improve their job situation upon joining steps for success, empowering them to achieve financial independence and build brighter futures. Over 400 households, comprising approximately 1,700 children and adults, have benefited from the personalized support and resources offered by steps for success, underscoring the program's reach and effectiveness.through our collaborative approach and unwavering commitment to empowering individuals and families, steps for success continues to make significant strides in transforming lives and building stronger, more resilient communities."

"harvest hope parkthe University Area cdc harvest hope park, located at 13704 n. 20th street, sits on 7-acres of land near the tampa campus of the University of south Florida. It is a vibrant, resident friendly green space in an otherwise marginalized neighborhood plagued historically with various kinds of brownfields and related redevelopment challenges. The park was built in four Development phases and opened in november 2019. This urban oasis encourages family play, healthy eating, environmental sustainability, education, and Community interaction and features a Community garden, teaching kitchen, multi-purpose sports field, playground, outdoor fitness stations, walking trail and 2-acre freshwater fishpond for recreational fishing. Uacdc has just completed the construction of a splash pad to add to the enjoyment of the neighborhood families.harvest hope Community garden the University Area cdc harvest hope Community garden is a catalyst for transformational change because it affords Area residents, young and old, the opportunity to (1) improve their physical health through exercise and access to home-grown healthy food; (2) participate in hands-on gardening education and cooking classes (3) improve their mental well-being by communing with nature; and (4) learn eco-friendly ways to sustain their personal Community well as the Community at large. The primary benefits for Community garden program participants and for residents of University Area at large include increased access to healthy food and continued education or enhancement of skills related to plants, sustainability, and eco-systems. These benefits are immensely important for this Community where poverty, lack of education, health disparities, and social determinants have severely impacted the physical, mental, and emotional health of many of its residents. Attainable housinguacdc has multiple attainable housing initiatives aimed at restoring and maintaining affordable housing stocks. The median income resident in tampa bay is being forced out of the market by housing costs that are simply unaffordable. Uacdc currently owns and operates two apartment complexes comprising a total of 40 units. These units are all between 30 to 50 percent below market value. In partnership with blue sky communities uacdc operates uptown sky, a 61-unit apartment complex serving families below 70% of the Area median income, with set asides for families earning 50% and 60% of ami as well. Uptown sky has uacdc supportive programing on the 1st floor of the building.rehab to restore hope is a new initiative for acquisition and rehabilitation of existing rental properties from duplexes to small apartment communities. Uacdc purchases, repairs and remodels the properties and rent the units to individuals and families below 80% of the ami. The first purchase under this initiative is a duplex that has been remodeled and is being rented to two veterans.uacdc has purchased land and buildings for a new 2-acre mol multi-use project. The project will consist of the renovation of an existing warehouse into Community space and offices, which is currently underway. The anchor of the project is the new construction of a 7,000 to 9,000 sq ft building that will help celebrate the diversity of the University Area, as well as providing commercial space for local businesses to develop and grow. The final phase of the cultural campus will be 15 to 20 town house style apartments that will serve tenants under 80% of the ami.get moving! Mind, body & soulthe University Area cdc's get moving! Program is a comprehensive wellness initiative designed to address multiple facets of individual health, including physical, emotional, mental, nutritional, and spiritual well-being. By focusing on these interconnected elements, the program aims to enhance the overall health and vitality of Community residents, particularly those in the University Area, through a range of engaging and enriching activities.at the core of the get moving! Program are organized sports, educational classes, wellness cognitive behavioral therapy groups, and various workshops, all aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and empowering participants to take charge of their well-being. Upon enrollment, individuals undergo assessment and receive personalized tracking forms to monitor their chosen activities and individualized goals, fostering accountability and progress.with a commitment to supporting the Community's aspiration for self-sufficiency, get moving! Serves over 500 children, adults, seniors, and veterans monthly through a diverse array of programs and events. These offerings include community-based health events, workshops on topics such as mental health, nutrition, cancer prevention, stress management, and diabetes education, as well as a wide range of physical activities.from weight management and boot camps to yoga, zumba, basketball, martial arts, cheerleading, football, soccer, kids and adults cooking classes, adult's seniors line dancing and youth swimming class, get moving! Provides ample opportunities for individuals to engage in physical exercise tailored to their preferences and abilities. Furthermore, the program leverages partnerships with sports organizations, health professionals, bilingual mental health therapists, educational institutions, certified trainers, and medical personnel to deliver a holistic menu of services."