About George Washington Carver House
To empower the community through service and leadership
The agency’s first programs were sponsored by the Works Progress Administration
(WPA) which supported a recreational program by youth and an occupational training
program in the area of domestic service for young black women. Both programs
were overseen by Ralph T. Young, a government supervisor. Mr. Young later became
the first Executive Director of Carver House, a position that he held for 40
years. Under his leadership, the center developed and organized youth clubs,
team sports programs, leadership programs, a day care center, and much more.
These programs provided a safe, productive and enriching environment for thousands
of youth for over 50 years.
In 1972 the Carver House ended as a branch of Wesley House and both became associated
members of Consolidated Neighborhood Service Inc. (CSNI). Shortly thereafter
Carver House was forced to close due to budget constraints and decreasing revenues.
Unfortunately, the closing of Carver House came at a time when youth violence,
drug abuse and drug sales were on the rise. Carver House was no longer a focal
point for the community that it had served for almost 50 years, but due to a
committed staff and neighborhood volunteers, it was able to continue its services
in the community. In 1986, Carver House dissolved its membership with CNSI,
and with the support of the United Way of St. Louis, Carver House reopened it
doors a year later as an independent agency.
Over the years, Carver House and its personnel have provided an encouraging
environment for the community. Many of St. Louis’s prominent and notable citizens
have participated in Carver House programs. Today, Carver House continues to
nourish and enrich the lives of those in its community.
MISSION
Our Mission is to enhance the quality of life for residents in its service
area.
Carver
programs and services are targeted to focus on the family. Carver offers programs
to improve life skills, increase family economic development and to promote
the general well being of the families that we serve.
VALUES
We Will Treat Others Like We Want To Be Treated
We Will Accept Personal Accountablitity and Responsibility
We Will Collaborate and Partner with Others
We Will Honor Our Commitments
We Will Value Innovation and Learning
We Will Act as Agents of Change
We Will Serve the Community
STRATEGIES
To promote the development of healthy and productive families who contribute to the betterment of the community.
To partner with organizations and individuals to enhance the quality of life for all residents.
To be visionary activists and advocates for the rebirth of the community.
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Last Updated:
Sunday October 23, 2005