From Corsets to Computers to Opportunity

Picture this. A rundown, turn-of-the-century corset factory in Bridgeport where rain pours relentlessly through gaping holes in the roof. Teens drift by outside. Aimless and restless, they sometimes spray-paint slogans on the crumbling walls of the factory or throw rocks through its windows for target practice.

Enter George Stowell, a veteran math teacher, who teaches teens every day. He knows that many of them drift through school just like they drift through the streets, having no idea how homework assignments relate to their lives, except for the vague promise of a better future. He also knows how smart his students are and what incredible potential they have, potential that's going to waste. He's determined to do something about it.

George drives by the old corset factory every day and has watched its gradual deterioration. "What an eyesore," he thinks. "I wonder if it could be saved and put to use. Students could participate in the restoration work and start businesses of their own, right there in the old factory!" He pulls together some students, parents, local business owners and community leaders to discuss the idea. Out of the discussions emerges a new non-profit organization: the Bridgeport Area Youth Ministry (BAYM.)

BAYM acquired the corset factory in 1996 for one dollar; a federal agency, Housing and Urban Development (HUD), supplied funds to cover some of the costs for materials and labor. Sweat equity is providing the balance, and the transformation is nothing short of astounding. Weekends find youth and adult volunteers from Bridgeport and surrounding towns repairing the roof, tearing down walls and building new ones, shoveling, hammering and applying fresh coats of paint.

When U.S. Sen. Christopher Dodd visited the project in 1997 he said, "You have an idea and you have a building. There are buildings like this in cities throughout America. This unique and innovative program can be reproduced."

BAYM seeks to provide programs which enable young people to become self sufficient and mindful of others. There are no handouts at BAYM; there are only opportunities for young people to better themselves and their world. BAYM's young workers have taken a dilapidated city block and turned it into a hub of business and educational activities. In so doing they have begun to save a neighborhood.

Each day and almost every weekend, you can find one or more projects underway at this Industrial Youth Center. Teens learn from area professionals, as well as from each other, what motivation and hard work can accomplish. Over 75 organizations have stepped forward to provide support. Participating teens also learn a new language - one that reflects our business world - rather than lingo from the streets. They pick up on attitudes that reinforce good character, a positive work ethic and a cooperative working environment. Although BAYM hires some professionals, such as plumbers and electricians, to help with building renovations, many professionals also volunteer their time and skills, teaching the teens that life is not all about "dollars and cents."

"Computer Genesis" is the Industrial Youth Center's pilot entrepreneur program. It consists of two phases designed to guide young people from basic PC literacy and technician skills, to an introduction to the world of business and job readiness. BAYM is fortunate to have a team of part-time instructors and volunteers from the local business and educational community to guide the development and implementation of this project. Students learn to work as a team, refurbishing PC's and preparing them for the marketplace. The goal of "Computer Genesis" is to start a self-sustaining PC refurbishing business created and developed by young people. To date "Computer Genesis" has graduated about 200 students from its classes. Many have stayed on as paid Center employees.

Teens also learn to give back to the community. "Computer Genesis" students have provided over 200 Bridgeport residents, churches and non-profit organizations with rebuilt PCs.

Lamont Frazier, "Computer Genesis" Director, began his association with "Computer Genesis" at age 16, as one of the program's first students. Now, at age 19, he teaches PC classes, writes much of the curriculum and even educates the adult volunteer educators! Lamont serves as one of many excellent role models to students just entering classes at the Industrial Youth Center.

Romilda Anderson of Southern Connecticut Gas said, "The business community has been watching the development of this project for a number of years. We are amazed at what you have been able to accomplish. You have gained the admiration and respect of many of us."

In March of 1998, the City of Bridgeport and Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recognized BAYM's work with an award for Community Development. This award is given to organizations whose service and work genuinely serves community residents.

Bridgeport Mayor Ganim expressed pride in the project, too. "Bridgeport depends on many volunteers from surrounding suburban residents and businesses, especially for social service organizations and projects. When the two meet to help our city residents, everyone wins. The Industrial Youth Center is unique because volunteers are helping establish both a social service program and business ventures at the same time."

George Stowell exudes optimism about his students' potential and accomplishments. "My goal is to help kids discover what they are made to do and enable them to do it."

Current Needs of BAYM

• Scholarships for teenage participants
• Personal Computer donations (486/66 mhz or better)
• Adult volunteers to assist in Learn to Work, "Computer Genesis" and Wilderness & Outdoor programs
• Guest speakers from the business community
• Funding for ongoing programs, teenage workers and building renovation

For additional information, contact:

Mr. George Stowell, Executive Director
Telephone: 203-336-9333
FAX: 203-366-8197
Email: baymeast@aol.com