News Summary
Students from South Piedmont Community College (SPCC) have transformed a dilapidated home in Union County into a safe haven for children in crisis. Led by the Construction Management Technology program, this community project has seen students enhance their skills while contributing significantly to local welfare, ensuring a brighter future for needy children. The renovation of the house, which was on the brink of demolition, reflects both educational investment and community spirit.
SPCC Students Breathe New Life into Union County Home for Children in Crisis
In a heartwarming display of community service, students from South Piedmont Community College (SPCC) have rolled up their sleeves and transformed a dilapidated home in Union County into a much-needed safe haven for children facing crises. This noble endeavor was made possible by the college’s Construction Management Technology program, under the capable guidance of Dennis Baucom.
From Neglect to Nurture: A House Saved
The story begins with a house that was donated to Shining Light Baptist Church back in 2005. As the years passed, the property fell into disrepair, and plans for its use became uncertain. However, a glimmer of hope emerged when it was handed over to The Shepherd’s Place Children’s Home and Academy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing care and support to school-age children. The church’s Pastor, Tim Cruse, noted how the purpose of the home was clarified once it was designated for the Shepherd’s Place ministry.
Before SPCC came to the rescue, the home was on the brink of demolition, as the City of Monroe considered tearing it down. In a critical hour, Dennis Baucom received a call from city officials seeking solutions, and this prompted Baucom’s students to embark on the renovation journey that would breathe new life into the structure.
Students Step Up: A Hands-On Learning Experience
Over the course of two years, SPCC students accepted the challenge and meticulously worked on renovations that included replacing windows and tearing off the existing roof. Students like James Thurston not only honed their construction skills but also embraced the chance to significantly impact their community. Guided by Baucom, these students expressed immense pride in utilizing their abilities to help those in need, thus reinforcing the college’s commitment to fostering a community-oriented mindset.
Support from Community Initiatives
This renovation effort aligns seamlessly with a broader trend of investment in education and community facilities. The recent approval of a record-setting bond for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) has set into motion a $3.4 billion upgrade plan, which will fund 59 ambitious projects across the district. This includes a monumental $2.5 billion earmarked for various construction endeavors, all geared towards improving the educational landscape for future generations.
Among these projects is the overhaul of South Mecklenburg High School, where most buildings will be replaced, with construction set to kick off in the summer of 2025. Additionally, a new arts magnet middle school is transitioning from First Ward Elementary, aiming to enhance the arts program and accommodate 700 to 750 students. Construction is slated to commence in summer 2025, with an anticipated end date in August 2026. Another facility, designed for approximately 1,200 students, is underway on a sprawling 20-acre site off Tom Short Road, expected to be completed by July 2026.
Community Voices and Concerns
As these projects advance, the community and parents have expressed valid concerns regarding potential disruptions to music and theater programs at the First Ward Creative Arts Academy. Balancing construction needs and educational priorities remains a critical focus for all parties involved.
Empowering Black Students at UNC Charlotte
Meanwhile, initiatives at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte are also fostering inclusivity and support among students. Building Black Students (BBS), an organization that originated as Building Black Men, rebranded in April 2023 to encapsulate a broader mission for all Black students at the university. Founded in September 2022, BBS aims to forge a strong community among its members and actively engage in outreach efforts through mentorship programs at Julius L. Chambers High School, helping students transition into college.
With over 125 members, mainly underclassmen, BBS is committed to nurturing future leaders who are equally passionate about the organization’s mission and its lasting impact. Led by Edward Hines, the group’s goals revolve around establishing a welcoming atmosphere, while also encouraging open discussions about crucial issues concerning the Black community, including mental health and the challenges of alcoholism.
In addition to their advocacy work, BBS hosts various events such as Motivational Mondays, weekly tabling sessions, and community clean-up initiatives to further engage and inspire their peers on campus.
The collective efforts of students from SPCC and UNC Charlotte shine a beacon of hope and positivity, demonstrating the incredible power of community and commitment to bettering the lives of those around us.
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Additional Resources
- Charlotte Observer
- Wikipedia: Education in North Carolina
- WSOC-TV
- Google Search: Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools
- QC News
- Google Scholar: Student Support Centers
- Niner Times
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Black Education
