ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the ways in which caregivers were able to transfer their gains into community improvement. It examines the movement toward community involvement by relating the experiences of two caregivers. Caregivers had less impact on public schools, and they had no apparent impact on agencies located outside the community. The Residents’ Organization supplements its allotment with grants, donations, and fundraising events. A number of caregivers attend churches outside the neighborhood. Strong community networks support and encourage new efforts. In addition to the institutions located within the neighborhood, a number of agencies and groups provided assistance from without. Caregivers received instruction through a variety of courses at the local community college, located about two miles away. The coordinator, Dionne Greenlee, empowered caregivers by teaching them to read simple books to their children. Caregivers were able to borrow books, which often featured African American characters.
