Programs

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  2. 1. The Reparative probation project: Community Service Site for Somali Bantu offenders

The Somali Bantu Community Association of Vermont (SBCAVT) helps repair and address the damage caused by crime and conflict of low-level offenders and members of the Somali Bantu Community of Burlington to work in rebuilding the trust destroyed by conflicts and crimes by focusing on the understanding and good judgment of the people involved. The SBCAVT does mediation/conflict resolution between parties in conflicts Individual and group counseling (Problem Solving Committee), and provides bail money, shelter and a venue for all parties to be heard and get their needs met (Emergency and Relief Committee). They discuss the circumstances and impact of the crime/conflict and ways to avoid making similar mistakes in the future.   

  1. 2. The Community Support Program: The Association provide, on a first come first serve basis, free services 

-         Administration Services: Paperwork/ Follow Ups

-         Translation/Interpretation Services

-         Referrals: To/ From agencies and non profit organizations for various offered programs and services

-         Employment services: Resume Writing, Referrals

-    Computer Lab

-         Transportation Services

-         Educational Services- Training(legal, Civics...)/Workshops(Health...)/Projects

            *Current Projects (May to July 2008)

a.      The New Father Initiative :Created to serves the new fathers of the Somali Bantu Community living in Vermont in particular but is open to any father of the Refugee Community to be able to meet and discuss cultural adjustments, conflicts, resolutions and consequences when it comes to how to raise children in the State of Vermont/USA. Guests are welcome to speak to the group about parenting.

b.      The Knitting Group :Lead by the Women's Committee encourages women to participate in knitting groups

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3. Youth Recreational Program:

A youth summer program starting yearly beginning of May. It provides sports and cultural activities such the Soccer League, Knitting Club and Dance Club.