Photo contributed by Heart of Compassion Partnerships
By Jessica O. Swink
Small Business Insight
This summer, from June 21-26, 253 volunteers worked more than 3,000 hours cleaning up their neighborhoods during the Third Annual Serve the City Chesapeake. These volunteers and projects represent approximately 25 percent of the overall effort.
In the first two years of existence, Serve the City Chesapeake has seen dramatic improvement changes in crime, including an 88 percent decrease in robberies and 34 percent reduction in overall crime. Statistics for this year’s event are being compiled and will be available later this month.
“All year, we gear up for that one week in June, with a concentrated effort in bringing in volunteers,” said Wanda Russell, grant writer for Heart of Compassion Partnerships, an organizing body of Serve the City.
Photo contributed by Heart of Compassion Partnerships
Because Heart of Compassion Partnerships relies on grants and private donations for operation, volunteers are needed to make Serve the City Chesapeake a success.
“No matter how small the help is we give the people, they are so appreciative,” Russell says. “You can just see the relief on their face when you can tell them you can help them.”
This year, 17 home projects were completed in South Norfolk, along with 117 repair jobs, 15 community clean up projects, and 4 projects with the Chesapeake Housing Authority. Overall, Serve the City Chesapeake received $63,863 of donated labor.
Major players include the City of Chesapeake, Chesapeake Police Department, 11 local places of worship, civic leagues, schools and local businesses.
“We really bring together all kinds of volunteers,” Russell says.
Photo Contributed by Heart of Compassion Partnerships
Russell recalls one project that comes to mind from this year’s week-long program.
“This one older gentleman was in a wheelchair and there was no way for him to sit outside as a family, let alone go anywhere. So we built them a deck with a wheelchair ramp,” Russell explains. “For the first time in years, they told us they could enjoy their neighbors and feel as if they are part of the community. It was pretty heartwarming.”
And that is the focus of Heart of Compassion Partnerships’ mission of Serve the City: to bring hope to communities.
“Some of the other things we did this year were to replace the flooring in someone’s kitchen, and we did roofing,” Russell said. “In fact, one of the churches took on an entire house (project).”
What is heart wrenching for Russell and the staff of Heart of Compassion, though, is when phone calls come in during the year with community needs similar to wheelchair ramps and house repairs, and having to tell those in need that the next Serve the City isn’t until next June.
“There are so many people who are in need, and we are always looking for volunteers and partners to help us reach those people,” Russell said.
Food baskets were delivered this year to the 17 houses that received help during Serve the City. This basket helped an elderly lady keep herself fed until the end of the month. With failing health and a small income making her ineligible for food stamps, having enough food month-to-month is difficult, Russell explains.
“No matter how bad you think you have it, there’s always someone who has it worse,” says Russell. “Even my 14-year-old son didn’t realize how much need exists in the neighborhood … he called us millionaires compared to some people.”
To volunteer time or resources to help with Serve the City next year, contact mel.howell@hopecharitable.org.
