Common Unity Reaching EveryoneC.U.R.E., Common Unity Reaching Everyone, a unique and courageous non-profit community movement was founded in 2001, in the unicorporated West Athens area of South Los Angeles. The mission: To Save the Lives of Children who live in this dangerous urban community abounding with drug dealing, violence,murder and gang warfare. This dangerous environment daily affected the lives of all who lived in these deteriorating neighborhoods especially the children. The founders and organizers of C.U.R.E., former gang members themselves and now dedicated community activists boldly moved to established and mediate a peace agreement between rival gangs featuring the cardinal commitment of "No Child Harmed". The truce between gangs which ended a 30 year war of sensless gang conflicts and violence resulting in countless deaths, including the young and the innocent, is still in effect today, fostering a "brotherhood" among former rivals, which paved the way for creating an oasis of safety for the children and revitalization of the West Athens community and Helen Keller Park. Homicides in the area dropped by 75%. Aggravated assault, a key indicator of violence, was reduced by 43% between 2008 and 2009. The community is regaining the confidence to live, work and play without fear of constant violence.
Without a doubt it is the young children who are impressionable and most susceptible to young recruitment. It is C.U.R.E's believe that saving the lives of these children is the foundation for a brighter,safer and productive future for the community at large. Through aggressive,purposeful and well organized, "Boots on the Ground" educational,sports and community programs, C.U.R.E makes a profoundly positive difference in the lives of thousands of at risk children and thier families.
In 2007, C.U.R.E formed a non-profit (501C3) organization and formalized their capabilities to track the progress of the children participating in C.U.R.E. programs. C.U.R.E. has developed and grown, opening a second community center on the border of the city and county of Los Angeles. The program focuses on the community whose support and involvement with the children provides the guidance and resources necessary to help young people aspire to a better, meaningful life, higher education and a secure place in society. From the beginning, C.U.R.E has welcomed and received the support and guidance of the Los Angeles Police Department as well as the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department, without whose positive involvement the programs, initiatives and dreams for the children could not have been positively actualized.
Ending inner-city violence is a top priority in building a better Los Angeles. While many programs have tried to tackle the numerous causes of gang violence, C.U.R.E believes communities must transform from within. Only those who cause violence can be the ones to stop it. Every mother deserves the peace of mind to know that when her child walks out the door, they will return home safely.
Please join us and support our efforts to make Safe Schools, Safe Parks, Safe Streets, a reality for every child in Los Angeles. |
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