The Oaks Apartments Complex, Hilton Head Island, SC

An Example of NOC’s Successful Community Development Program

HIGHLIGHTS

Overview: The Oaks, an apartment complex in Hilton Head Island, SC, transformed from a high-crime, struggling neighborhood into a thriving community (2008–2020) through Neighborhood Outreach Connection (NOC) programs led by Dr. Narendra Sharma, Founder & Chair of NOC. By focusing on education, health care, and workforce development, NOC empowered residents to improve their quality of life and property values.

Transformation Journey: In 2008, The Oaks faced crime, poverty, and limited educational support for children and working adults. Invited by the Homeowners Association, NOC set up its first Learning Center, engaging residents, volunteers, and other community service providers in grassroots change. Dr. Sharma emphasized relationship-building over costly capital investments, encouraging community involvement in defining and solving their challenges. Over time, trust developed, and key priorities emerged: education, economic opportunity, health and wellness, and safer public spaces.

Community Engagement & Growth: NOC spent months listening to residents, identifying needs, and fostering collaboration. Initiatives included a playground, a soccer field, adult education classes, and a neighborhood association. A digital divide was bridged through a donated virtual learning center. Residents actively contributed to renovating three learning centers and organizing community events, building a culture of mutual support and leadership.

Expanding Programs & Partnerships: By 2012, NOC offered education, health, and workforce programs in three learning center units. Partnerships with local schools, hospitals, nonprofits, and civic groups enhanced services. Certified teachers and volunteers ensured quality education, while health screenings and workforce training provided holistic community support.

Results & Impact: With NOC’s presence and generating about $1.5 million into Oaks through various community development efforts, significant social and economic progress was made in the Oaks, lifting the community out of poverty.  Over time, crime rates declined, property values increased, and student performance improved. Over 12 years, NOC empowered families, strengthened economic prospects, and replicated its successful model across Hilton Head, Bluffton, and Beaufort City in Beaufort County, SC.

Today, The Oaks stands as a testament to sustainable community transformation.

To read more about NOC’s community development story, click on the link below:

The Oaks – NOC’s example of successful comunity development long May 2025

For my recent birthday, I opted for a quiet, peaceful day of reflection and connecting with people we serve locally. This decision proved to be an excellent choice and a wonderful day to remember fondly.

Clearly, the highlight of the day was spending time with the Pre-K and Kindergarten children attending NOC’s afterschool and enrichment program at the New Oaks Learning Center in HHI. I read a story to these children and engaged them in discussions. They were excited and eager to share their views and experiences.  They were cheerful and happy, and there was much laughter in the room. It was indeed a joyous experience.

On reflection, children are our future.  Investing in them by creating opportunities and pathways for progress is investing in our future.

Narendra Sharma

Founder & Chair, NOC

On Sunday, August 28, 2022, Dr. Narendra P. Sharma, NOC Founder and Chair, delivered the sermon at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Lowcountry in Bluffton, SC. His focus was “Be a Compassionate Neighbor … NOC’s Approach to ‘Teaching a Person to Fish’ to Achieve Independence, Self-Reliance, and Dignity.” He spoke about cultivation of the soul in order to achieve inner peace and lasting happiness. The presentation was enthusiastically received by the congregation and prompted vigorous discussion following the service.

Slides from the presentation are attached: Narendra Sharma. UUC Presentation, August 28, 2022

Thursday, February 17, was a special day for Dr. Sharma as he visited NOC’s Learning Center at Island Lutheran Church on Hilton Head Island. His expectation was simple: He expected to see smiling faces of children working diligently with teachers from local schools, volunteers, and NOC’s field staff. But, lo and behold, he was greeted at the door by two parents who surprised him with a basket of fruits artfully carved by these parents. The presentation had NOC’s logo and the name of the church –Island Lutheran Church. These parents said that this gift was a token of appreciation from the children and families NOC serves locally.

Clearly, this gesture was unexpected, but greatly appreciated for the thoughtfulness of the people NOC serves. Caring for others, especially those who are in need and those who are vulnerable, is the essence of our existence and purpose in life.