CSC Youth Program Makes a Difference

Kennhy came to Corvallis and CSC from Southern California, where he was laid off from his bakery distribution job. Kennhy dropped out of high school to work entry-level, and worked his way up. He came to Corvallis with his spouse and two children, and recognized that he needed to get his GED before moving forward with his life. When he first connected with CSC, he had third-grade reading and math skills. At the age of 22, he had made a decision to better himself.

Within a few months, Kennhy raised his reading level while being tutored at the CSC Youth House. His progress was remarkable, and one day we started discussing books. We commented that he had made so much progress since he arrived. That’s when he said that one of the main reasons he was working so hard was so he could read to his young children. Specifically, he liked to read them Harry Potter. He said that it was good practice for him, and that his kids loved the story and hearing him read it to them. That was his motivation, and he took that to heart.

Kennhy has not only brought up his reading level and math skills - he received his GED and will be going to truck driving school. Kennhy has immersed himself in the community through volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, his church, and by being a positive person while moving forward with his life.

CSC YouthBuild Crew Hard at Work

Our CSC YouthBuild crew has been busy this spring! Here's a look at a beautiful produce stand that they designed and built for Trillium Children's Farm Home. Great work YouthBuild crew!

CSC Harvesting Good Things in Our Community

Linn Benton Food Share (LBFS) has partnered again this year with local nurseries for their Patio Project. The Patio Project is based on a simple concept - people growing fresh, healthy produce in their gardens to fight hunger in our community.

Carl Bass with his tomato plant

Local nurseries have donated more than 3,000 plants to Linn Benton Food Share to distribute so local gardeners can grow food to feed their neighbors in need.

Most of these gardeners are members of the numerous gleaning programs that work with Linn Benton Food Share. Gleaners are people with low incomes who participate in gathering donated foods for themselves and other low-income households.

The Patio Project will help LBFS increase the amount of healthy, locally grown produce available to those in need through their 68 local partner agencies that include emergency food pantries and shelters, soup kitchens, residential care homes, and gleaning groups.

LBFS Director Ryan McCambridge notes that Food Share has made it a priority to increase the amount of fresh, nutritious produce for emergency food boxes. It is expected that more than one million pounds of produce will be distributed this year.

“Linn Benton Food Share is thankful for the generous donations from local nurseries“ Ryan stated. “These plants will provide produce for people who are at risk of going hungry. We always feel good when we can increase the nutritional content of the food we distribute—and in this case, the people growing the plants have a new way to provide for their families.”

CSC’s Youth Garden has also been busy growing produce for both LBFS and the community, participating in the Corvallis Farmers’ Market. The CSC Youth Garden enrolls four to ten students looking to get their GED or diploma while learning food production and sales skills in a supportive environment.

Interested in gleaning? For more information on a group near you, please call Susan James 541-758-2645 or send her an e-mail at sjames@communityservices.us.

For more information on the CSC Youth Garden or CSC’s Youth Programs, contact Armand Schoppy at 541-578-2776 or contact him at aschoppy@communityservices.us.

CSC Natural Resource Crews Participate in Marbled Murrelet Study

The CSC Natural Resource Crew took part in the 10th annual Marbled Murrelet citizen science survey this July on a spectacular stretch of Oregon's coast near Yachats, Oregon. The experience was a wonderful way for crew members to learn first-hand how scientists are monitoring populations of a threatened species, and how those species are managed for conservation in Oregon.

The primary objective of the survey is to address the key question of status and trend of Marbled Murrelet populations and nesting habitat in the Northwest Forest Plan area.

Oregon State University ornithologist and Marbled Murrelet expert Kim Nelson led the surveys in the Cummins, Ten Mile, and Yachats landscapes. The area included the recently designated ‘Globally Significant’ Central Coast Murrelet Important Bird Area, with 100,000 acres of Murrelet habitat in the Siuslaw National Forest and adjacent near-shore waters.

The crews took part in viewing and discussing old-growth forest habitat, as well as the recently designated Cape Perpetua Marine Reserve and Seabird Protection Area. During the morning surveys, Murrelets could be seen and heard on breeding territories and in their near-shore feeding areas.

CSC Youth Garden Partners to Teach Preschool Children About Gardening

The CSC Youth Garden Crew will lead the Old Mill Center Relief Nursery preschool children in a ground breaking to create a garden on the Old Mill playground. Ground breaking will occur at 2:00 PM, Tuesday, March 31, 2015.

The CSC Youth Garden crew, well-known for their innovative garden project, showcased at Corvallis Farmers Market, will share their knowledge and experience with the younger children of Old Mill. The CSC Youth Garden is a program of the Workforce and Education Department of Community Services Consortium’s Benton County office in Corvallis. Every season, four to ten high school youth who are enrolled in the federal workforce program are responsible for caring for 40 raised beds, without the use of herbicides or pesticides.  These young gardeners will bring plant starts and bushes to the playground at Old Mill Center where both sets of kids will “break ground” on a new endeavor for the smaller children. This is a unique pairing between the two non-profits, both serving local children.

This joint effort between the high school youth and the preschool youth is an extension of their existing collaboration formed to introduce the farm to classroom concept at the earliest age.

Old Mill Center for Children and Families Relief Nursery program is designed to prevent child abuse and neglect for children birth to 6 years of age.  It is one of 5 disciplines provided as a service to the local community aimed at building healthy and nurturing foundations for all children.

CSC Youth Garden Hosts Farm to Preschool Day

The CSC Youth Garden crew was thrilled to have the garden buzzing with preschoolers on Thursday, February 19. Students from the Old Mill Center Preschool learned how to plant vegetables, as well as how to harvest and clean them. They got to meet the new baby chicks at the garden, and even got to try jams and jellies during snack time, all prepared by the Youth Garden crew. Everyone had a great time and is looking forward to the next visit!

2nd Annual Garden Gnome Run a Success

Great fun was had by all at the 2nd Annual Garden Gnome Run on May 4, a benefit for the CSC Youth House Garden. More than 300 runners and walkers came out to support the Youth Garden, show off their clever gnome costumes, get a little exercise, eat some delicious crepes, and listen to the sounds of Island Joy.

Thanks to all of the wonderful sponsors below, as well as everyone that came out to enjoy the race!

Thanks to Sohel Kahn for taking some great pictures too!

To view race results, click here.

Recruiting Now for the YouthBuild Training Program!

Are you between the ages of 18-21, need your GED or high school diploma and interested in construction, building trades, or energy conservation? Then YouthBuild is looking for you! This program is offered at no cost to participants. Eligible participants may receive financial incentives to participate.

Am I eligible?

If you are between the ages of 18-21, want to earn your GED or high school diploma, live in Linn County, and are drug-free, we encourage you to apply for the program!

How long is the program?

Six months to a year, depending upon how long it takes to complete your GED or high school diploma.

Where is it located?

The program is primarily located in Linn County. Transportation is provided from central locations in Sweet Home, Lebanon, and Albany to the worksites.

How do I get more information or apply?

For more information or to apply, go to our website at: communityservices.us/
education/youthbuild/ for more information or to download an application. You can also call Geoff Jaeger at 541-231-2896.

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. CSC IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY, AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER.

Registration is Open for CSC's Barrel to Keg Relay and Garden Gnome Run!

Race season is approaching soon, and registration for both CSC's Barrel to Keg Relay and Garden Gnome Run races are open!

The 2nd Annual Garden Gnome Run comes up first on Sunday, May 4, 2014. There will be a raffle, cool prizes, Garden Gnome swag, division winner awards, runners in gnome costumes, gnomes in runner costumes, music and refreshments. And yes, there’s even a race!

Take your pick from a 1K, 5K, 10K and, new this year, a 15K race. The flat, paved course follows the bike path in Southwest Corvallis through beautiful Avery and Pioneer Parks. If you run the 10K or 15K, you’ll take a running tour of Starker Arts Park as well.

All entrants receive a Youth House tomato plant and a gnome-themed glass finisher “medal”. Awards are available for the top 3 men and women finishers in each age division. Tech shirts can be purchased for an additional $12.

The Garden Gnome Run is a benefit for the CSC Youth House Garden. Come out to support Benton County youth and sustainable, local food! For more information or to register, www.gardengnomerun.com.

The 4th Annual Barrel to Keg Relay follows on Saturday, July 12, 2014. Starting at the Harris Bridge Vineyard in Philomath, Oregon, this scenic relay goes through the beautiful back country of the Oregon Coast Range, crosses over the majestic Yaquina Bay Bridge and finishes at the famous Rogue Ales Brewery at Newport’s South Beach Marina.

Teams of 2, 4, and 6 runners split the 110K (about 70 mile) distance over 12 legs. Teams of 2, 3, 4, or 6 walkers do about half the distance - the first 3 and last 3 legs, so everyone starts and finishes together. Ultra runners are welcome, too.

All finishers receive a B2K finisher medal. Prizes will be given to the fastest teams in each of six divisions. In addition, special awards are given to Best Team Name, Best Decorated Vehicle, and Most Creative Costumes. Special prizes will be presented to the top three Fundraising Teams who raise the most money for CSC’s poverty-fighting programs! You do not have to participate in the event to have a fundraising team.

For more information or to register, visit http://www.barreltokeg.com.

Want to help but don't want to run or walk in the races? Be a fundraiser or volunteer! Contact info@barreltokeg.com or sign up to be a fundraiser here!

At-Risk Youth Raise Walls and Hope for Albany Family

The dream of home ownership is now a reality for one local family in Albany thanks to the nonprofit group First Story, Community Services Consortium’s YouthBuild program and local builder Hayden Homes. Luppela Sifuentez and her three daughters will raise the walls on their new home on Thursday, October 17 at 11:30 am. The home is located at 2035 Lehigh Way in Albany.

“Our partnership with YouthBuild allows us to build an affordable home while helping to transform the lives of young adults who have struggled and become disconnected from our community,” said Claire Duncan, Executive Director of First Story. “The YouthBuild program helps them discover their strengths and identify their challenges in a supportive environment that emphasizes positive outcomes. The students bring with them varied experiences with school, family and community, but they all have one thing in common: They are ready to learn.”

To qualify for the First Story home, Sifuentez went through a comprehensive interview and assessment process and was required to meet certain income guidelines. Sifuentez will purchase the home through a zero down payment and a zero interest 30-year home loan from First Story.

“First Story has done more for me and my family than give us a roof over our heads. First Story has restored my sense of dignity and my confidence that hard work and perseverance do make a difference,” said Sifuentez.

“We have an amazing opportunity to change the lives of these young people while changing the future for Luppela and her daughters,” said First Story Founder and CEO of Hayden Homes, Hayden Watson. “Hayden Homes remains focused on helping First Story get families like the Sifuentez in safe, stable affordable homes.”

DATE: Thursday, October 17, 2013
TIME: 11:30am to 1:00pm
LOCATION: 2035 Lehigh Way, Albany, OR 97322
ADDITIONAL: Photo opportunities will be available on site

About First Story

In 1998, builder Hayden Homes had a vision: to change lives through home ownership. That vision developed into First Story, a 501(c)(3) public non-profit, which is celebrating 15 years of service in 2013. First Story has served over 10,000 families though home construction, homeownership opportunities and community giving. Its mission is to promote giving and inspire communities through the creation of home ownership opportunities and financial support. For more information visit: www.FirstStory.org

About YouthBuild

Community Services Consortium (CSC) YouthBuild is a comprehensive program designed to provide apprentice-like opportunities for at-risk young adults ages 16 to 24 years old. Learning takes place in both the classroom, where students earn their high school diplomas or GEDs, and in the field, where students gain construction skills and work experience. CSC YouthBuild is a six-month to two-year youth development program.

About Hayden Homes

Hayden Homes has been building homes and communities throughout the Pacific Northwest for more than two decades. Its vision is to provide the highest quality home for the lowest possible cost. The company is among the top 50 builders in the nation with communities in Oregon, Washington and Idaho.

Natural Resource Youth Crews Set Sail Aboard Ocean Watch Research Vessel

Community Service Consortium’s Natural Resource Youth Crews, located in Lincoln City, headed out for a day of sailing around Yaquina Bay on August 2nd with Captain Mark Schrader and his crew on the Ocean Watch research vessel.

The day started with an on-board presentation by the youth crew about all of the great work they had done that summer. Youth crew members Sarjenka, Acela, Barbara, Andrew, Michael and Kail talked about their various projects, including rebuilding the ramp at the Port of Alsea, painting and staining the dock at Elk City, and clearing brush and blackberry bushes at various locations throughout Lincoln City. Then it was time to set sail.

Captain Schrader gave everyone a safety briefing and some history on his experience with the Ocean Watch boat. He was the Captain of the boat during its “Around the Americas” voyage, which was a 13-month, 24,000-mile circumnavigation of the North and South American continents to collect scientific data. The 64-foot yacht visited 31 ports of call. The boat has been docked in Newport for educational activities, including a 4-H Marine Ambassadors Camp held in partnership with Oregon State University.

It wasn’t just a leisurely sail for the youth crew members though – a few of them got some sailing lessons as they helped with docking duties and raising the sail. It was a fun, educational day for the youth crews. Thanks to Captain Mark Schrader and the Ocean Watch crew for having us aboard!

 

To refer a youth to the Natural Resource Crews or any of CSC’s Youth Programs, or to volunteer contact Macy Holmes at mholmes@communityservices.us or 541-574-2290.