Adult and Family Services
We believe in and act for economic and social justice so that people have the opportunities to advance econically, socially, educationally and personally. Obstacles to advancement have many different roots and could be made more challenging by financial stress, mental health needs or substance abuse among other factors. Accordingly, DCS takes a multi-disciplinary, intergrated approach to providing adult and family services.
Building Wealth & Economic Opportunity
Economic status is one of the most powerful determinants of family and community health and well being. To that end, DCS wants to build wealth for Point Breeze and its residents by both initiating activities and collaborating with others to create opportunities.
Comprehensive Housing and Financial Education Counseling
DCS' housing counseling encourages responsible homeownership and promotes neighborhood stability through mortgage foreclosure prevention as well as tenant eviction prevention. Through programs such as Money Matters, Philadelphia Saves Club and Benefits Bank, DCS' financial counseling provides tools for instilling good habits and solid decision-making.
Employment Training
A number of DCS programs center on helping residents develop skills for employment in today's economy. One particularly relevant example - The Green Job Training Iniative provides an intense job readiness program for qualified adults to gain employment in the clean energy sector (watch video). This is a collaborative effort involving the Philadelphia Workforce Investment Board, the Federation of Neighborhood Centers and the Sustainable Business Network.
Business Corridor
As the largest employer in the neighborhood, we view ourselves as a key member of the Point Breeze business community. In fact, one of the goals of building the Mamie Nichols Center in the heart of the business corridor of Point Breeze was to help stimulate private business and residential revitalization. DCS continues to be mindful of every opportunity to support and encourage local businesses.
Providing a Safety Net
Through a wide variety of supports, DCS helps individuals and families in need by providing financial assistance, counseling and/or linkages to much needed resources.
The stimulus-funded homeless prevention program helped 550 families avoid eviction and remain in their own home last year. DCS also helps families to remain in their own homes through its Emergency Energy Assistance program including hands-on weatherization workshops and water conservation repair to drive down utility costs.
Families in Crisis
Armed with research-based curricula, DCS' educators facilitate classes to help parents develop a repertoire of skills and appropriate behavior for successful parenting. We offer programs on anger management, intiatives to encourage men and fathers to be a visible presence in the community and to build strong relationships with their families. We provide case management services through our Pre-ARS program as well as information, referrals and linkages to divert families away from the child welfare system.
Building a Strong and Vibrant Community
We believe that communites are made strong through social bonds and social networks of people who are about one another and their community. To that end, DCS fosters relationships with public and private institutions that bring important resources -- funds, knowledge, talent and an entrepreneurial spirit -- that benefit the community.
A Focal Point in the Community
DCS' Dixon House is constantly used by neighbors for forums, meetings, self-help groups and scout troops. In addition, we sponsor events such as health fairs, job fairs and fire safety classes for the community's benefit.
Neighborhood Advisory Council
The city -supported effort was established to inform residents of community development issues such as zoning hearings and affordable housing and public benefits that residents may be entitled to receive.
The Revitalization of Point Breeze
Houses in some sections of Point Breeze are being converted into single-family homes and condominiums. New restaurants and stores are following more affuent homeowners who are settling in. Long-time residents are concerned about whether they will be able to continue to afford to live in the community. DCS seeks to work with all segments of the community to channel gentrification's positive attributes and minimize any negative impacts. We envision a revitalized community that is equally supportive and inclusive of all income levels, ages and races supported by a range of housing options, community services and employment opportunities.
Looking for a home? Check out our offering of affordable new constructions in the neighborhood (South City Gardens).
