- On May 01, 2017
- In Advocacy
It Takes A Village: How IBA Supports Residents through Community Services
Healthy, sustainable communities often grow from environments that provide equal social and economic opportunities. For instance, according to a 2014 National Bureau of Economic Research report, upwardly mobile communities typically exhibit low income inequality, minimal racial and socioeconomic segregation, stable households and high quality primary education. At IBA, we continually seek to identify and create social, economic and educational opportunities for our residents that support their wellness, academic and career development, artistic skills and knowledge at all stages of life. Here is an overview of a few of our programs that encourage vibrant, culturally diverse and upwardly mobile communities:
- Serving low-income households and senior citizens at Villa Victoria, our Resident Services Program promotes healthy, active living through day-to-day advocacy. With bilingual staff on-hand, our program offers translation assistance, health screenings and case management services, while providing opportunities for community engagement through available fitness classes, nutrition programs, arts activities and field trips.
- The financial and time constraints of secondary and higher education oftentimes prevent lower-income residents from pursuing further academic and professional development. In partnership with Bunker Hill Community College, IBA’s College and Financial Empowerment Program enables participants to complete a High School Equivalency Degree, as well as enroll in adult education, college, financial management and career development classes at Villa Victoria’s satellite campus. With scholarships, academic advising and childcare services available to students, our program provides educational and financial support throughout the learning process, while helping residents identify and pursue their careers post-graduation.
- The long-term success of a community largely relies upon the preparedness of its younger generations. Our award-winning Youth Development Program helps teenage residents gain the creative, critical thinking and social skills they need to become future leaders and engaged citizens. Offering a safe space for imaginative, intellectual exploration, our Youth Development Program offers leadership and professional training, academic support, art workshops and civic engagement opportunities to ensure that our youth possess a love of learning and are well-equipped for success. Meanwhile, our Bilingual Preschool Program prepares children aged three to five years old for kindergarten with a bilingual curriculum and a learning environment that encourages communication, creative thinking, and cognitive and physical development.