With support from strategic partners, UREC, a nonprofit community development organization that transforms communities by investing in people and restoring neighborhoods, recently expanded and/or launched new initiatives in the areas of affordable housing, community development and advocacy.
UREC Board Chair Gail Grover, said: “Urban Restoration Enhancement Corporation has done a great deal of impactful work over the years, and we continue to do so. We are fortunate to continue our efforts with the support of strong business and community partners who realize the importance of sustainable community development in Greater Baton Rouge.”
UREC 2013 Community Development Initiatives (New and Expanded):
- Launched a 21st Century Learning Center at Glen Oaks Middle School in partnership with the LSU Cain Center, enabling student participants to engage in STEM initiatives that focus on science, technology, engineering arts and mathematics
- Spearheading statewide forums and engagement sessions on asset building for low income families as the founder and lead agency for the LABEST policy initiative (www.la-best.org)
- Near capacity and completion of Urban Gardens—a subdivision of 21 single family residences for first time homebuyers at the site of the former Old Hollywood Elementary School. To date, UREC has invested more than $2.4 million in the creation of affordable housing opportunities.
- Since 2011, UREC has invested more than $750,000 in community development initiatives.
- Hosted the North Baton Rouge Housing Expo, along with several other community partners, in an effort to showcase new homes and promote home ownership.
In addition to strong alliances with community partners, Red River Bank and Capital One Bank committed investments to UREC’s work and mission as Giving Hearts partners. The commitments are indicative of the local business community’s desire to see comprehensive community development initiatives continue to thrive in Greater Baton Rouge.
“Families benefit when businesses and stakeholders invest in communities,” said UREC President and CEO Emel Alexander. “UREC has paved the way for hundreds of families in Baton Rouge to access quality affordable housing, education programs, business training and technical assistance and advocacy initiatives due to broad based support from supporters and volunteers, “ he added.
