Nehemiah Community Development Corporation
The mission of the Nehemiah Corporation is to affirm the dignity of marginalized, at-risk youth and adults and equip them to be self-sufficient, productive agents of hope and reconciliation in their families and communities.
We foster personal transformation through development of: respect for self and others; social competence; leadership skills; academic achievement; and economic empowerment.
Description:
The Nehemiah Corporation is not a religious organization. We do not promote a particular denomination or restrict participation to those who ascribe to a certain set of religious beliefs. However, we are "faith-based." The Nehemiah Corporation's philosophy and vision is rooted in Christian principles and the acknowledgment of spirituality as an important dimension of being human.
Spirituality has always held a place of importance in African American culture. Throughout history, the Black Church has been where African Americans turned for support and guidance-not only in spiritual matters, but for economical, social and emotional support as well. Today, the church and belief in God continue to be the strongest tie binding the African American community together.
Our array of programs and services is connected and strengthened by the principles we incorporate into all we do.
Spirituality
We affirm the spirituality that African Americans recognize at the heart of all life.
Reconciliation
We promote reconciliation in all relationships at the spiritual, personal and community levels.
Cultural relevance
We present our programs in a cultural context familiar to those we serve.
Consistency and structure
We provide the only consistent love and order in the lives of many young people.
Empowerment
We equip people to take control of their lives and transform their own communities.
History:
The history of the Nehemiah Corporation is rooted in the commitment of individuals to their local community. The non-profit agency was formed in 1992 through the initiatives of a small group of South Madison residents, most of whom are African American alumni of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The individuals--representing disciplines as diverse as education, economics, health science, African American studies, business administration, African literature and social work--decided to stay in Madison and use their talents to enrich the city's quality of life.
Rev. Dr. Alexander Gee, Jr. is the president and founder of the organization. As the pastor of Fountain of Life Family Worship Center in South Madison, Reverend Gee originally approached several other area churches with the concept of a jointly funded community development corporation. This core group of churches formed the initial partnership that brought resources and volunteers to the Nehemiah Corporation.
The fledgling organization received a vote of confidence from the Madison Community Foundation, which provided a $25,000 grant to fund the planning phase and additional grants for Nehemiah. Business advisors, who serve on a volunteer basis, were recruited to provide guidance and expertise.
The Madison Community Foundation has cited Nehemiah as a good example of "venture funding"--an investment in the community that, like an initial public stock offering, offers significant potential long-term rewards. While it may take some time for these rewards to be realized, such investments, the Madison Community Foundation observes, "are often what propels a community forward in the greatest leaps and bounds."
Based on their own experience, the founders of The Nehemiah Corporation now build indigenous leadership for the future of Madison. Children and youth who participate in Nehemiah's programs are taught about Madison's assets and encouraged to visualize their role in Madison's future. For example, young children in the summer and after-school programs take field trips to business in South Madison, where they gain an early appreciation for economic self-reliance and its importance to healthy communities.
You are welcome to join in the work of The Nehemiah Corporation as a program participant, supporter or volunteer.
Contact person: Rich Henderson, Dir Of Operations & Development, (608) 257-2453, (email)
Office fax number: 608-257-1515
Address:
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633 West Badger RoadMadison, WI 53713(See a map) |
Web Site: http://www.nehemiah.org
Directions:
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As you head south on South Park Street, take a left on West Badger Road. Nehemiah is then half a block up on your right.
If you are heading north or approaching from the beltline, take the Park Street exit. . . (more)
Nearest Metro/Subway Stop: N/A,
Walk distance (in minutes): N/A
Nearest Bus Stop: South Transfer Point, 5 minutes minute walk |
| Last updated on July 17, 2009 |
