NOC – Page 14

Exploitation of Under-served Neighborhoods in Hilton Head Island

February 14, 2020 By NOC

In a recent interview with WHHI, Dr. Narendra Sharma, Founder & Chair, of Neighborhood Outreach Connection (NOC), discussed negative changes occurring in neighborhoods in Hilton Head Island — neighborhoods that provide affordable housing for working families and retirees living on modest incomes. He explained that this trend poses a serious threat to the local economy, future investments, and quality of life in HHI. The Island is already strained by the lack of affordable housing for the workforce that supports the service, construction, health, and domestic sectors. As the cost of living increases, retirees and working families are negatively affected. This in turn has a roll-over effect on the Island’s economy as the cost of services increases for all residents.

For further information listen to the following video interview: https://youtu.be/aqwuReDFQW8

Expelled Oaks Children Rescued by Good Samaritans

January 26, 2020 By NOC

On December 30, 2019, NOC was ordered by the Oaks Apartments Board of Directors not to allow children (25 to 30 active students) residing outside the Oaks to attend NOC’s after school and summer learning programs starting in January 2020. Shortly thereafter Good Samaritans from Island Lutheran Church stepped up to provide a place for their classes to continue.

Sad Farewell

January 2, 2020 By NOC

William “Bill” Evans, NOC Board member, passed away on December 11, 2019, at his home on Lady’s Island in Beaufort, SC.

Follow this link for a tribute to his lifelong commitment and service to education: Bill Evans-tribute

NOC’s Environmental Warriors

December 5, 2019 By NOC

Recently, an owner and resident of the Oaks Apartments in Hilton Head made the following observation about the NOC children at the Oaks Learning Center: “I happened to look out my window at our dirt landscaping and this is what I saw: kids from Neighborhood Outreach Connection (NOC) combing the area and picking up our trash. I was told this is done at all NOC locations and helps teach the children about littering. Like the parents and teachers, we are proud of these children.”

Giving Spirit Brings Much Joy

November 8, 2019 By NOC

It is always uplifting to visit the after school programs at NOC’s neighborhood learning centers. The highlight of the day (November 7) was seeing the eager faces of children at the Oaks and Cordillo centers in Hilton Head Island. These kids with their radiant smiles exuded confidence, discipline, and happiness. Even after a long, tiring day at school, these children were eager to spend an additional hour to finish their homework and sharpen their skills in math and reading, while having fun.

At the Oaks center Kerimy was awarded a bicycle thanks to a generous donation by Paula Fee, who has previously provided bicycles to NOC to be given to a student for outstanding performance. Kerimy received the bicycle because of her academic results, attendance, and hard work.

At the Cordillo center, it is not just the children who are students. A weekly computer class, led by Cristian, a high school student, has been started for mothers whose children are in NOC’s after school program.

Our special thanks to the generous donors and supporters who make these outcomes possible.

Oaks Learning Center