Last Wednesday, March 1, Joe Arends, Hannelore Brucker, Rick Carlson and I had an opportunity to take a hard hat tour of 66 West, our signature project for this Rotary year. The 66 West project will feature 39 units of affordable housing for young people who have experienced homelessness between the ages of 18 to 23. 
 
Click on the link for more on the tour...
 
 
What struck me were the beautiful spaces filled with sunlight. There are windows in every efficiency unit. And each unit will include a small bathroom, kitchen, small living space, desk, bed and dresser. Most important there will be a door that locks. For many, privacy is a luxury they have not experienced. It will also mean safety.

The common spaces will feature a community kitchen and gathering area, which is the Rotary Community Room, conference room, computer and exercise rooms, outdoor space with grills and storage for bikes. It will have all of the amenities that young people need including access to public transit. The bus stop in front of 66 West will connect with over 140 bus lines throughout the metro area.

There are wonderful opportunities for employment within walking distance at neighborhood restaurants, shops and businesses. This will be essential, because each tenant is required to earn $205 per month toward their rent. Simpson Housing Services will provide on-site job coaching, counseling and connect young people to education and jobs in our community.

It is anticipated that young people will start moving into 66 West in May 2017. We will keep you posted regarding the volunteer efforts of assembling furniture and placing furniture in the respective rooms. Long term they will also be receptive to classroom training that might include how to purchase a car, managing credit cards, etc. There also might be interest in establishing internships within Rotarian-owned businesses.

This is a project that we all should be very proud that we are supporting and it truly is an example of Rotary Serving Humanity.