IBSA – Online

Building for the Future

August 1, 2007 · Leave a Comment

You are receiving this email because somewhere our paths crossed to a point we learned something about each other and our conversation must have covered some community, youth, welfare, business or workforce issue needing to be addressed. For over 15 years our agency (IBSA) has taken great care to place our energy and efforts on helping those at the lower end of the socioeconomic scale reach a higher plateau in life. Not only have we had to help some meet their most basic socioeconomic needs, but doing such while also meeting our own organizational demands on a shoestring budget.

Now, with years of experience and accomplishments behind us we are prepared to move forward in a way that can establish a lasting opportunity to meet the unmet needs anticipated by economic uncertainty at the Local, State and National level. In 1995 representatives from Washburn University KTWU, area Unified School Districts, and community nonprofit organizations were a part of the National Campaign Against Youth Violence sponsored by PBS. It was brought about due to high instances of youth violence and low achievement, and worked to identify community action around building sound coalitions, solutions and partnerships.

Then, as now, youth when asked, offer solutions they feel could stem the violence that impacts them. What is done with that information is then on those in the community that have the influence, finances and sometime the courage, to make it happen. One recurring suggestion from youth and young adults from disadvantaged communities is always the desire to have a central place to safely socialize with their friends and peers after school. A place that is not so much government or church sponsored, but one whereas they are a part of establishing the rules and procedures in a process that they feel as fair. Having a cross-section of city youth involved allows those who only see each other at a game or at the mall an opportunity to work together when coordinating activities for, and with, their peers.

To meet the unmet challenges facing disadvantaged youth, low-income adults, ex-offenders with employment & training, and small businesses needing ongoing support and proper advocacy, we are raising the required funds to secure the building we occupy at 629 SE Quincy, and the adjacent buildings on 7th Street between Quincy and Kansas Avenue. 112-114, 116, and 118 SE 7th.

This is IBSA’s most challenging effort to-date and we hope to reach our objective of raising the necessary amount needed to complete this important project in a timely fashion. With several levels of support to choose from, we believe raising required funds as proposed will offer many in the community a chance to give in their own small way. It is apparent that many adults would like to have an active role in creating a positive environment for Topeka youth so that they may stay engaged in making good decisions. The community has also shown concern for those at the lower rung in life, but statistically, certain populations always end up on the short end. Therefore we are hopeful that other relevant agencies will accept our offer to collocate programs or activities in the facilities so that they can more effectively reach people in a centrally located place. I thank you in advance for your continued support and will meet with you or your committee to discuss how your contribution to this effort will assure the implementation of this exciting project.

Thanks in advance for your consideration.

http://kansassmallbizpromotions.com/bldgfund.htm


W. Lazone Grays
President/CEO

IBSA, Inc. – Main Office
629 SE Quincy, Suite 102
Topeka, Kansas 66603-3921
(913) 240-6247 ph


Kansas City
2052 N. 3rd Street
Kansas City, Kansas 66101
(913) 371-4709 fax
Serving Wyandotte, Leavenworth, Johnson County

www.ibsa-inc.org

Click Here to Support This Effort Online:
http://www.topekacommunityfoundation.org/page31727.cfm


Topeka Community Foundation
Since 1983, the Topeka Community Foundation has worked to improve the quality of life in our region through an active partnership with donors and others who believe, as we do, that positive change occurs through effective charitable giving. Today, the Community Foundation manages more than 350 charitable funds established by individuals, families, and businesses and nonprofit organizations.

Together, these funds represent ordinary people who have made extraordinary commitments to our community. The Topeka Community Foundation offers easy ways to help you make a significant difference with your giving. By partnering with the

Community Foundation, donors receive the simplicity and tax advantages of a public charity combined with the personal recognition, involvement and flexibility of a private foundation. Donors also gain access to the highest level of strategic thinking on ways to meet community challenges.

Community Foundation donors understand that Topeka is more than a place � it is home. With that recognition comes a deep sense of responsibility and a belief that each of us really can make a difference. Find out how you can make a difference with the Topeka Community Foundation.


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