Bay County Neighborhood Resource Center Project

The Congressionally Recommended Awards Program, authorized by the Department of Justice Appropriations Act, 2010 (Pub. L. 111-117), helps improve the functioning of the criminal justice system, prevent or combat juvenile delinquency, and/or assist victims of crime (other than compensation). Funds should be used for the projects recommended by Congress, in the amounts specified in the joint explanatory statement incorporated by reference into Pub. L. 111-117, and generally consistent with one or more of the following statutory purposes: improving the functioning of the criminal justice system, preventing or combating juvenile delinquency, or assisting victims of crime (other than compensation). Each of these purposes is framed using language drawn, respectively, from the former Byrne discretionary statute, the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act, the Victims of Crime Act, and the Violence Against Women Act. This project is authorized and funded through a line item in the FY 2010 Congressional Budget and by the joint explanatory statement that is incorporated by reference into the FY2010 Department of Justice Appropriations Act.

The Bay Medical Center will serve as the fiduciary agent for the Bay County Neighborhood Resource Center (NRC), the lead agency for the Bay County Prevention Network (BCPN). BCPN has evolved over 16 years to represent nearly all human service agencies, schools, and parent and youth groups in the county. The goals of the NRC, which focus on reducing substance abuse and use among youth over time, are to: 1) improve youth attitudes about acceptance of normative values; 2) improve anti-drug disposition among parents and adults; 3) secure additional participation in coalition efforts by individuals and organizations; and 4) monitor and evaluate progress toward short-term and long-range activity to modify or design more effective programs. Programming will include intensive educational programs, alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs youth presentations, summer recreation programs, youth community awareness activities, and working with area organizations to develop programs for youth. NRC will work with area organizations on collaborative parenting groups for the community, with a focus on parenting teens and with the local Boy's and Girl's Club and the Public School Academy on hosting parenting workshops. These workshops will include one night presentations and one four series presentation. The program will also provide consultation to families of youth who are referred to the Insight Program each year. They will distribute graduation letters and tips for a safe party to parents of graduating seniors in Bay County.

NCA/NCF