East Durham Children's Initiative Receives Oak Foundation Grant

DURHAM, N.C., June 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- East Durham Children's Initiative (EDCI), a "cradle to career" program modeled after the Harlem Children's Zone, announced today it has received its largest gift on record from the Oak Foundation. An international philanthropic organization, the Oak Foundation commits its resources to address issues of global, social and environmental concerns, particularly those that have a major impact on the lives of the disadvantaged.

"EDCI is heartened by the support the Oak Foundation has given us. Changing the lives of Durham's children and their families is a daunting task," said Barker French, co-chair of EDCI. "The Harlem Children's Zone has shown that it can be done and we, with the support of all our partners in Durham and enlightened funders, intend to give our children the chance to succeed."

EDCI was established in 2008 by community members, government and school leaders, and child-serving agencies to support and nurture families and children in a 120-block area east of downtown Durham, North Carolina. Recognizing a vast contrast between EDCI's vision and the current reality of the neighborhood, EDCI is developing a plan to create a continuum of services from birth through college or career. Key elements include early childhood services, elementary and secondary school improvements, family support, health and wellness, adult literacy and job training.

The initiative is modeled after the highly successful Harlem Children's Zone, a pioneering, nonprofit, community-based organization that works to enhance the quality of life for children and families. "We envision a future where all of East Durham's children and youth are successful and East Durham thrives," added French. "With the unprecedented support of the Oak Foundation, we will be able to create high-quality, comprehensive, coordinated, neighbor-based programs for children, youth, young adults and parents."

EDCI is a program of the Center for Child & Family Health.

Media Contact:
Janet Northen
919.313.4062
[email protected]
@jnorthen

SOURCE East Durham Children’s Initiative