TITLE
Recommendation to receive and file report on the 2010 Summer Night Lights program and a preview of the program for 2011.
DISCUSSION
In 2010, more than 2 dozen nonprofit, faith-based, and other community organizations came together to develop Summer Night Lights, a program to prevent crime and give young people access to positive activities. The program began July 12 at Martin Luther King, Jr., Park, Petrolane Boys & Girls Club, Drake Park and West Side Boys & Girls Club from 6 to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday through Sept. 3.
Youth are more likely to commit violent crimes in summer months because the days are longer and school is out. Summer Night Lights provides activities for at-risk youth, including sports, arts and crafts, empowerment workshops, acting, karate and photography, as well as a hot meal, and for parents there are resources, workshops and childcare services.
The program is part of the Building Healthy Communities Initiative paid for by The California Endowment. Long Beach is one of 14 communities in California selected by the endowment for the Building Health Communities Initiative, which is a 1 O-year statewide commitment to building a healthier California.
Families wishing to participate in Summer Night Lights activities can go to anyone of the three Summer Night Lights sites to sign up. This year the program will be held at Martin Luther King Park, Admiral Kidd Park, and Drake Park.
As summer begins again and most youths are not in class, Summer Night Lights is ready for its second season, and a report on the success of Summer Night Lights is timely.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
Respectfully Submitted,
ROBERT GARCIA
COUNCILMEMBER, FIRST DISTRICT
DEE ANDREWS
COUNCILMAN, SIXTH DISTRICT
JAMES JOHNSON
COUNCILMEMBER, SEVENTH DISTRICT