Councilwoman Patricia Fairclough recognized the accomplishments of three non-profit organizations based in the Homestead area during a Special Council Presentation in July 2014. The three were selected to receive grants as winners of the Million Dollar Literacy Community Challenge, a fund spearheaded by Miami-Dade Superintendent of Schools, Alberto Carvalho, for the purposes of providing family engagement activities with the various schools in the Homestead community.
“Out of the thirty-one county-wide applications received, twelve were awarded these funds,” the councilwoman went on to say. “I am proud to report that three of the twelve organizations reside right here in Homestead; the municipality with the most awards in all of Miami-Dade County. As someone who has long endeavored in the field of education, I am thrilled to recognize these organizations for their commitment to building strong communities within the City of Homestead.”
The three organizations honored were EnFamilia, Inc., Le Jardin Community Center and the Mexican-American Council. The first to speak was CFO of Les Jardin Community Center, Audelia Martinez. “The grant that we received is intended to teach parents how to navigate the portal system within the Miami-Dade County Public School’s website. At times, it can be challenging for some of them to negotiate the internet so we help them by providing computers, in some cases, and instruction that will aid them in achieving these goals. We look forward to next year when we can report on all the positive outcomes that will arise as a result of these resources.”
Last to speak was Mr. Carlos Salgado, founder and director of EnFamilia. “We are extremely grateful to the school system for allowing us the opportunity to expand our services to the community. Thirty parents have already registered to receive their training. I would like to thank the mayor and council for their acknowledgement this evening. We are ready to get to work!”