from the Presidential Inaugural Committee January 19, 2009
Guidance on President-elect Obama’s service day activity today from
Josh Earnest, PIC Communications Director
President-elect Obama participated in the renovation of a "safe space"
housing for homeless and runaway or "disconnected" youth at Sasha Bruce
Youthwork (SBY). For more than 30 years, SBY has met the urgent needs
of at-risk youth and their families in Washington, DC. The term
“disconnected” is meant to more accurately describe their
situation—most of the youth have troubled family life or a lack of
guidance at home. The goal is to ensure they are safely off the streets
and provided with an environment that encourages reconciliation with
their family if possible. SBY also focuses on keeping the young person
in school and addressing their mental, social and physical health
needs.
The upstairs temporary shelter is in need of a renovation. Currently,
it has the feel of an orphanage or hospital. The goal is to transform
it into a space that encourages positive attitudes, social activity and
awareness by installing curtains, energy-efficient light fixtures and
desk assembly, and painting walls and lockers.
SBY was chosen a result of its: noble mission, three-decades of service
to the community, lasting impact on the families that it serves and the
opportunity that exists for members of the community to contribute to
this organization.