What Makes Us Different
Program Elements
A facility with a full time Resident Coordinator is provided at each AAMHA owned multi-family community. The Resident Coordinators utilize the Learning Centers to create a non-intimidating, inclusive enviroment that supports the organizations mission while reinforcing the process not the product. In addition Resident Coordinators not only facilitate program activities they encourage resident participation and leardership through community organizing. Community organizing and on-site resident services form the foundation for relationships within communities that support the growth of tomorrow's leaders.
Various programs are consistently offered year round at all AAMHA Learning Centers, which fall under 4 main categories. These categories, Leadership Development, Pathways Youth Program and Education, Community Wellness, and Economic Literacy, house programs for children of all ages and adult residents.
Staff
Staffing at each AAMHA Activity Center consists of a full-time Resident Coordinator with a background in either the social sciences or education. The Resident Coordinator's serve as community organizers, group facilitators, referral agents and motivators and are directly supervised by the Resident Services Director. The Resident Services Director reports directly to the Executive Director and an Administrative Assistant supports both positions. University interns, community volunteers, parents and residents provide additional assitance for various activites.
Cost
The cost of operating a Learning Center on a monthly basis with a full menu of services is approximately $38 per unit. AAMHA pays for resident services as part of operations.
Measures/ Indicators
AAMHA works with NR Multi-family Initiative in developing outcome measures that will demonstrate the effectiveness of housing-based learning centers in meeting the needs of the residents.
Partnerships with Other Organizations
Daily service delivery is a primary function of the on-site Resident Coordinator. Volunteers throughout the community including parents and residents provide additional support for various activities. Resident initiaited community improvement projects have been supported by the United Ways Saturday's of Caring volunteers.
Resident Coordinators maintain positive relationships with local schoolteachers and counselos throughout the year. We have found that this relationship provides valuable information for both the Coordinator and the Teacher. AAMHA has also formed partnerships with other organizations to provide additional opportunities that otherwise might not be available such as Girl Scouts, 4H, and Junior Achievement.
Green Building Initiatives
In 2010, weatherization of apartment homes at Babcock North Phase I, Castleridge, Thompson Place and Springfield Manor occured with the assistance of the Alamo Area Council of Governments Weatherization Program. AAMHA received approximately $183,874 from the city of San Antonio's CDBG Economic Stimulus Program to implement energy efficiency upgrades. Also in 2010, AAMHA recieved an intern through the Lonestar Internship program with TACDC. Through this specific opportunity, green living instructional classes were provided to residents of all 8 AAMHA properties.