By Link Johnson
The Scene staff
St. Louis Community College is reaching out to help a struggling community restore its image by moving Forest Park’s Human Services Department to the William J. Harrison Education Center in north St. Louis, near Grand Boulevard and Cass Avenue.
Students and staff pulled together on April 26 at the Harrison Center for the first annual “Inner City Change — Community Passport to Success,” showcasing the Human Services Department and other community service groups.
“This is exactly what we’re supposed to do,” said Tracy Hall, vice president of student affairs, “My heart is filled.”
The event was planned by Human Services majors at Forest Park after they watched “The Delmar Divide,” a documentary that highlights the segregation in class and color between areas north and south of Delmar Boulevard.
The 30,000 square-foot Harrison Center building was built by the college for $10 million, opening in 2010, to accommodate its programs in that hardscrabble neighborhood.
Missouri State Rep. Josh Peters, D-St. Louis, presented a proclamation from the Missouri Legislature to the Human Services Club, congratulating its members on the relocation to the Harrison Center.
Saul Capilla represented Grace Hill Neighborhood, promoting its “Gateway to Better Health” program. “It’s good that they’re giving back to the community,” he said.
The event also provided fun and games for children and families. Children participated in raffles to win prizes while Dwaine T. Peters, aka DJ E.E.P, played music, providing a party-like atmosphere.
Kevin Talbot from Workforce Solutions, a part of St. Louis Community College, came out to present grant-funded programs from the Department of Labor. “We are having a good time,” said Talbot.
Planned Parenthood’s organizer, Julie Tuttle was excited to be a part of the event. “It was really well organized,” she said. “We are here promoting a healthier community.”
Within the first two hours of the event, spirits were high as people continued to arrive. “I’m feeling very good about it,” said Angela Datolli, president of the Human Services Club.