News – 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.

ONYX (Simmons Cay) Learning Center Reopens

September 30, 2019 By NOC

NOC’s field staff met with families at the ONYX (Simmons Cay) Apartments in Bluffton on September 25 to announce that the after-school program will resume classes on Monday, September 30, after being temporarily closed. The children and parents are eager to participate in NOC’s programs. NOC field staff also explained NOC’s intention to provide programs that relate to the health and workforce development/community development. NOC has been involved at ONYX since 2014 and we look forward to building our partnership with the community there to help children excel in school and to help families enjoy a better quality of life.

Congratulations to the field team for their outstanding work.

The Town of Hilton Head Flip Flops on the Cordillo Tennis Project

September 23, 2019 By NOC

After voting to include a building of at least 800 to 1200 sq. ft. as an integral component of the Cordillo Tennis Project, the Town Council reversed its decision and now plans to include only a small structure consisting of storage space and restrooms. Such a building will not allow for a proper youth tennis program. The Town Council appears to have been influenced by outside investors who are interested in transforming these affordable housing complexes into high end units that cater to tourists with high payoffs.

Dr. Narendra Sharma, Founder & Chair of NOC, appeared on the WHHI evening news on September 13 to discuss this topic.

To view his interview, go to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PJisw1xaGrw

NOC Celebrates at Colleton River Plantation Club, Bluffton, South Carolina

September 14, 2019 By NOC

On September 13, 2019, NOC celebrated its 10-year anniversary, along with its annual Golf Tournament for the teachers at the Colleton River Plantation Club. The golf tournament was played on the famous Nicholas Course, followed by a delightful dinner with open bar and music by none other than Deas Guyz. Proceeds from this event go to support NOC’s education programs.

The day was perfect and festive, and the outcome was magnificent.

Eighty-four players participated in the tournament and more than 160 people attended the dinner, including teachers, volunteers, NOC field staff, and representatives from the various communities served by NOC. Throughout the day, there was an air of fun and joy. Clearly, this was a five-star celebration.

Patrice McCloskey and Judy Blahut, Co-Chairs, of this successful event, did an outstanding job, having worked tirelessly to plan, mobilize support, and implement the program. NOC is highly indebted to them.

We are also grateful to the various sponsors of the event, golf participants, individual donors, and others who participated in the event. Special thanks are extended to the Colleton River Plantation Club for allowing NOC to hold this event at the Club. Lastly, we extend our appreciation to Reggie Deas and his band for their captivating music.