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A neighborhood man and his family get involved...
Corey Matthews wants to see his community transformed. Besides having the streets free from drug activity, he speaks of the resources that would benefit the people in his East Garfield Park neighborhood. “We would like to have laundromats, grocery stores and banks,” he says, “and see families build houses where there are vacant lots.” |
In pursuit of that dream, Corey, who grew up in East Garfield Park, actively advocates for social change. As a vital volunteer member of the Youth & Family Services team, he invests time and energy to ensure a better future for his family and community. In fact, his whole family is actively involved in Breakthrough – his wife, Tamica, and children Keith, age 13, Lavondia, age 11 and Kevon, age 5.
Tamica Matthews is a frequent visitor to Breakthrough’s After-School program. She regularly checks to see how Keith, Lavondia and Kevon are doing on their homework. All three of their children take advantage of the programs Breakthrough offers – year-round sports leagues, after-school tutoring, Bible study, and field trips.
This fall, Corey started visiting 10 schools each week where students enrolled in Breakthrough’s After-School program attend. He has taken a proactive role to ensure the students stay focused and in school. He visits their classrooms and talks with their teachers. His effort makes a difference. Most of the students look forward to Corey’s visits. They feel valued when someone in their community cares enough to see how they are doing. The teachers welcome his participation and give him feedback on the students’ progress.
Concerned about the safety of neighborhood children, Corey and his brother, Keith, recently visited the local police commander to share their concern about cars speeding on Carroll Avenue in front of the Joshua Center. After gathering signatures from community residents, they presented the local alderman with a petition to install speed bumps. Sensing their concern and commitment, the alderman plans to move forward with the project.
Despite the challenges they face, Corey believes that his community can come together in unity and make a difference. He looks forward to a renewed East Garfield Park. |
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