Working poor families, children, and the elderly. The effects of poverty are far reaching with implications beyond just the financial. While it is commonplace to associate poverty with individuals and families experiencing homelessness and being unemployed or underemployed, there are numerous other effects to our communities as well.
Lack of a quality education is a catalyst for juvenile delinquency and increased crime rates. Senior citizens, on fixed incomes, struggle to pay for health care and prescription drugs. Families, both young and old, have no healthcare coverage. The face of hunger includes people of all ages, ethnicities, and religious affiliations.
Unique Value Community Center (UVCC) is purposed to address these issues by providing Food Assistance, Job Readiness, Learning, and Humanities outreach programs.
"I am excited to be a part of an organization that believes
in giving back to the community while providing
extraordinary services that fulfills the needs of each individual."
Every Thursday evening, from 6pm until 8pm, the UVCC Food Assistance Program distributes bags of non-perishable food items to families in need. Through donations and our partnership with the Greater Chicago Food Depository and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Unique Value Community Center has become a strong force of empowerment in the fight to "STOP HUNGER NOW" in Chicago's Beverly community and abroad.
During the holiday season, holiday food baskets, having meats and other fresh foods, are distributed to those hoping for a special holiday meal with their families. UVCC plans on expanding the Food Assistance Program to include the distribution of hot meals.
"It is not only a rewarding experience to help those
in need to put food on the table, but even
more gratifying to be a resource of information..."
The UVCC Job Readiness Program is designed to assist working aged participants in building the critical skills necessary for entering or re-entering the work force. Through classroom instruction and workshops, participants learn interviewing skills, resumes and cover letter preparation, and receive training on using the internet. UVCC provides transportation to program participants who are offered job interviews, but are unable to obtain suitable transportation.
We also provide workshops towards obtaining a GED, and applying for college and trade school admission.
"It gives me great pleasure to see someone's life be improved."
The UVCC Learning Program assists youth, adults, and seniors with personal growth training. Program participants develop self-confidence, self-esteem, self-awareness and leadership skills through community service, professional development training, and field trips.
"At UVCC you can find resources, build meaningful friendships
and find a place of solace and hope."
The UVCC Humanities Program addresses both social and wellness issues that impact our community. Program participants discover the arts through creative exploration. We offer classes in dance, arts and craft, drama, and visual productions.
As part of our wellness initiative, free and minimal cost health screenings, including immunizations, are provided by UVCC in partnership with volunteer state licensed medical professionals. Wellness workshops and health fairs are provided in partnership with community health and social service agencies.
Fighting poverty is a challenge to be met through partnerships. It's because of the generosity and talents of concerned people like you that enable us to offer programs that help change lives.
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