February Newsletter: Superheroes Team Up for Children at Salvation Army!

a. Focus: Children at Home
b. Figures: At Risk Children in Harris County
c. Facts: Salvation Army Family Residence
d. Fun: 3/4 Cape Making & 3/24 Superhero Party
e. Future: Upcoming Events

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a. FOCUS: Children at Home

"Children are our most valuable resources" ~ Herbert Hoover. Under the umbrella of Vox's 2012 Homegrown theme, our first cause focus will be around underprivileged children. Join us in the following months as we explore more about this social issue in Houston and create opportunities in partnership with Salvation Army to serve our community!

• Vox Imprint (Arts & Crafts): Sun 3/4 Cape Making
• Vox Culture (Social Event): Sat 3/24 Superhero Party
• Vox Conspiracy (Discussion): April TBD

b. FIGURES: At Risk Children in Harris County

The term “at risk” is frequently used to describe children who are subject to factors such as poverty, childhood health concerns, inequitable education and safety issues. According to the Salvation Army 2010 Annual Report, as of 2008, there were 1.1MM children ages 0-17 in Harris County. 264M (23%) live in or near poverty. Children in low-income families have a higher risk of dropping out of school, poor adolescent and adult health, poor employment outcomes, and experiencing poverty as adults. In addition, 229M children live with a mental illness and approximately 10% of whom suffer an emotional disturbance enough to disrupt daily life. 38% of the poor children in Harris County live in a household headed by a single woman. To learn more, check out:

• “Who Are America’s Poor Children?”
•  Homeless Families with Children

"We didn't choose to be what we are. And it could be argued that this life chose us. We live it. With all its changes and challenges. Obstacles. Disappointments. Failures. Its successes. Its joys." ~Wonder Girl

c. FACTS: Salvation Army Family Residence

The Salvation Army is an international 501(c) Christian non-profit organization with a mission to serve the less fortunate. The Family Residence is 1 of 17 SA operation centers in Houston.

The Family Residence provides temporary assistance for needy families. This Federal Grant Program has 4 goals: 1) Assist needy families so that children can be cared for in their own homes, 2) Reduce dependency of needy parents by promoting job preparation, work, and marriage 3) Prevent out-of-wedlock pregnancies, 4) Encourage 2-parent families. The Family Residence also provides behavioral management training for parents and children, psycho-education on childhood mental disorders, domestic violence counseling for survivors, and trauma focused therapy. 88.4 cents of every dollar donated goes to direct services.

d. FUN: 3/4 Cape Making & 3/24 Superhero Party

"Let's show these kids they're not only worth fighting for, but we're fighting alongside them" ~Johnny Lin, Salvation Army Counselor Intern aka Freedom Fighter for Kids

• Volunteer Sign-Up: Power Up, Superheroes!
• Scholarships: For only $10, sponsor a scholarship for a child to attend Superhero Academy. Donation covers alternate identity, training, school supplies and super foods! Donate online or make checks payable to Vox Culture Houston (PO BOX 42535, Houston TX 77242)

e. FUTURE: Upcoming Events

• Texas Salsa Congress 3/9-3/11: Support our instructors from the Vox “Knock Your Socks Off” Salsa Night! Put on your dancing shoes and register here!
  
• The Road to Slavery - A Discussion on International Trafficking: 3/29 @ 6:30-9:00PM | Jerabeck Athletic Center 4000 Mt. Vernon St. | CAMSA