April 2013
THE GRAPEVINE Hopewell Redevelopment & Housing Authority
National Child Abuse Prevention Month
Volume 208, Issue 38
Monthly Reminders:
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. This year’s theme, “Insure Their Future: Invest in Children” speaks to the important role we all have in ensuring children grow up feeling loved, supported, and valued. Supportive homes are those in which a strong bond develops between adult and child; parents and caregivers understand child development and expectations for behavior are realistic; a child is encouraged to explore his or her world in safe ways and is allowed to learn from his or her mistakes without fear of punishment or ridicule. They are homes where established family rules are fairly and consistently enforced, where regular routines around things like meal time, bedtime, schoolwork and chores are in place, and where children have the opportunity to spend time with family members and friends, as well have time to recharge. Children who grow up in homes where they are safe, loved, and supported do better in school, make friends more easily, experience less stress, and more easily manage their behavior. They are more likely to take chances, work towards their goals, and achieve success. Unfortunately, many of Virginia’s children do not live in such a home. In FY 2012 the Virginia Department of Social Services found that over 6,300 children were maltreated and of those, 35 children died. While statistics like these can be overwhelming, they serve to remind us that we cannot afford to look the other way. We all have a responsibility to get meaningfully involved to ensure families have access to the resources they need in order for each and every child to have the opportunity to reach his or her full potential. HRHA has established partnerships with local churches, nonprofits and agencies that provide youth and family services. Programs and activities are being offered to our residents both off and onsite and we encourage you to participate. Much time and effort is given by our staff and volunteers to offer these services to our residents at reduced or not cost. Be active and involved in your children’s lives. Show them by your actions that you care. Model responsible behavior for them. Teach them social skills. You are their first and most important teacher. Your child’s success starts with you.
Neighborhood Watch/Resident Council Meetings: Kippax Place— April 9, 2013 5:30 pm Davisville/Bland Court—April10, 2013 1:00 pm Piper Square—April 17, 2013 1:00 pm Thomas Rolfe—April 18, 2013 1:00 pm Langston Park—April 24, 2013 1:00 pm Piper Square Boy Scout Meeting every Thursday from 4:30—5:30 p.m. in the Community Center. Langston Park After School Tutoring, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:00-6:00 pm in the Community Center. Rental payments are due on the 1st of each month and must be paid at SunTrust Bank by 5:00 p.m. Any payment received after 5:00 p.m. is considered next day and a late fee will be assessed.
Inside this issue: HRHA Grievance Procedure
2
HRHA Employee Spotlight
2
Management Policy
3
Upcoming Community Events
3
Management Corner
4
A Hoppin’ Success!
4
National Poetry Month
5
Parent Education Classes
5
ACT-SO Program
5
Resident Services Update
6