Location: Spartanburg, South Carolina
Build Date: 07/29/06
Project Home Page: www.kaboom.org/southsideunityinthecommunity
Project Leader: Wanda Cheeks

At the age of 12, Wanda Cheeks vowed never to set foot in Irwin Park again. “I was grabbed by a man in the park. Until that day, it seemed like the safest place in the world.”

Cheeks kept her vow, staying away for 25 years. On her return, the founder/director of Southside Unity in the Community found the park empty –of playground equipment, basketball hoops, and the other elements that make a park a community gathering place. She found herself “wanting to create a safe haven for the children.” 

She applied for a KaBOOM! The Home Depot Challenge Grant and attended a U Play! event where, she says, “I learned so much! I read all the books and got some ideas. We did some things a little differently, but it’s working. I can’t say enough about KaBOOM! and all the help we’ve received.” 

A year later, Southside Unity in the Community is on a roll. They’ve received support from city officials, foundations, members of the business community, and local citizens. Their custom logo will soon be splashed on buses, billboards, and partner websites. When July 29th arrives, more than 175 volunteers converge on Irwin Park for Spartanburg Park It Day. 

How’d they do it? Using a 3-prong approach: organization, determination and appreciation. They were able to gather the support of the city council and several community organizations early on. “We’re just helping our city to help us,” she says, “and I can’t hear the word ‘no.’” They’ve gotten the word out to local TV stations and newspapers. And they’ve enlisted the time, money, and talents of their community.

“Do your research,” Cheeks advises. “Find out what's in the community that you can use. Some people can write grants, some can write letters. Get children with exciting attitudes -- they have the wildest dreams. Don't be afraid to ask people what they do, because everyone can do something. Some days, a bag of ice is as valuable as a $5,000 donation.”  

The group is divided into teams, each partnered with its own expert mentor from the civic/business community.  The Public Relations Team, for example, is mentored by the Palladian Group, a marketing firm that has also designed the group’s custom logo. The Safe Kids organization mentors their Safety Team. 

Southside Unity immediately recognized the potential of its KABOOM! portal, using its features to introduce potential volunteers and donors to their project.  Its members also sign in regularly to read team meeting notes, view photos, and keep track of their fundraising progress. “We’re all busy and we can’t all be in the same place. It’s like one big conference call,” says Cheeks.

Cheeks says that she often uses poetry to get her point across, and that hugs and laughter are an important part of the group’s dynamic.  “Oh, we have fun at our meetings,” she laughs. “Some people aren’t used to the way we do things, but even our city manager can’t hold back when we do our little cheer: ‘Hipp Hipp, Let’s Play!’” 

While acknowledging that she may have been the catalyst for change in this neighborhood, Cheeks is quick to point out that this effort to create a “hangout for success” represents the combined efforts of many. "I have wanted to quit 20 times, but the other people who are involved inspire me. They have no idea how great their roles are. This is not about me, or what happened to me –that old door is closed. This is about all of us. This is strictly for the babies.”

Share ideas for Rallying Support in Your Community

We'll be on the lookout for great applications of the portal technology.  We'll be combing local portals for good ideas, engaging graphics and insightful stories.  We'll also be launching a new training and support initiative where we will be actively reaching out to you to help you get your portal in great shape. Stay tuned for details.

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