Who Will Keep the Promise?
The children of Camden are looking to adults and saying, “Who will keep a promise?”
Seven years ago promises were made to the children of Camden. The State of New Jersey took control of city government and promised safer streets, better policing, improved education, and better services.
On November 8, The Philadelphia Inquirer ran a front page article called, “The Promise and the Price.” Staff writer Matt Katz contrasted the promises made seven years ago with the reality of what has happened—after more than 175 million dollars were invested in tax payer money. Most striking: Murders have more than doubled since 2001 (from 25 to 55) in 2008, individuals living below the poverty level have increased from 35.5 % in 1999 to 40.5% in 2007, and 11th grade proficiency scores in both math and literacy have dropped over 5% points.
Since 2001, UrbanPromise has been keeping promises to children, teens and families. Our schools continue to graduate children and teens at accelerated rates, our job training program prepare capable youth for the work place, our after school programs are safe havens of love and peace, and our incredible staff continue to share God’s love in real and tangible ways.
We are keeping promises!
Dr. Bruce Main
President, UrbanPromise International