Happy New Year Buffalo ReUSE Supporters!

When I reflect on several of the meetings that we’ve had already in this 2008, it’s easy to get excited about a new year of opportunities.

As you may know, the creation of a youth training component at Buffalo ReUse is one of greatest priorities in 2008. The goal of our reCONNECT program is to develop a network that provides: relevant and meaningful job training opportunities in our communities; holistic GED training; and supportive mentoring for out of school youth. As part of this program, Buffalo ReUSE is actively engaged in the creation of a new education coalition here in Buffalo. Currently, the main purpose of our discussions is establishing the framework for a new youth development and training program for young adults that are out of school. Additionally, we’re interested in building a coalition of organizations and individuals, committed to advocating on behalf of the needs of youth to ensure that public policy decisions are made that create more opportunities for the youth in our community.
So far, our collaborating has been inspiring! Individuals from the South Buffalo Education Center, New Directions, Growing Green, Stop the Violence Coalition, SEIU 1199, and Buffalo ReUse are generating the momentum necessary to expand on existing efforts.
Stay tuned for more exciting developments!

In other news, the reSOURCE, an educational and community destination, offering quality salvaged materials at an affordable price, is under development. We’re negotiating with the building owner to purchase the warehouse located at 298 Northampton St and creating plans for building out the space for full-time operation in late March. Currently, you can visit us every Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm or by appointment by calling 716-885-4131.

Our BAR (Buffalo Action for Revitalization) Program will also commence in 2008. If you are a part of an organization or company searching for a community service project, please consider supporting the revitalization of Buffalo Neighborhoods. Volunteers will be involved in greening vacant lots and creating new community assets such as pocket parks and urban gardens. Most green space work will begin in the Spring, however, there are volunteer opportunities throughout the winter supporting the development of the reSOURCE, so give us a call. Email Caesandra at volunteer {at} buffaloreuse(.)org for more information.

Finally, we hope you will join us Tuesday, January 15th at 10am for our press conference to kick off the Neighborhood Peace Mural Project. Bennett Park Montessori is hosting the press event in their auditorium. This elaborate project is our first step at city-wide beautification, primarily in the communities that surround our schools. Each participating school (or group) can adopt-a-vacant-house within sight of their school and use the house as a canvas for peace. Students will paint their interpretations of peace on board-up materials which will be used to secure and beautify abandoned homes in their neighborhood.
We still need a lot of help in every aspect of this project. If you are a digital photographer, or connected to a school in the City, or a fire department, or a sponsor for materials, or part of any other organizations that would like to be involved or if you would just like to volunteer to assist with the project, please contact caesandra {at} buffaloreuse(.)org .

In addition to the efforts described above, you can tag along as we explore other ventures. We are in discussions with the Building Materials ReUse Association to host the 2008 Conference here in Buffalo next November. We’re exploring methods to preserve houses in the city by addressing community concerns of safety and blight–Heck, you may even cheer us on as Buffalo ReUse moves an entire house in 2008! There’s a lot happening, as always, we welcome your involvement and support! Check out our website or subscribe to our blog to become part of the action.

Onward and all the best to you in the New Year!
Michael
p.s. Join us for a football rematch January 27th, noon, at the reSOURCE!