The goal of the Praia Branca community center is to provide a multi-purpose facility for the people, especially servicing children, of the neighborhood and surrounding areas.
The vision of a community center was first planted into the heart of native born Thomas Rodrigues, who as a child experienced hunger first hand during the periods of extreme drought in Cape Verde. As he immigrated for more opportunity, he set the goal to return home and help his community. At Centro Communitario de Praia Branca, key priorities:
- Teach the value of community service - helping one another
- Robust building space in the heart of Praia Branca to serve all
- Provide a weekly food offerings
- Build a play area for children to have recreational fun
- Host educational, sports, and musical professionals to bring learning opportunities, trainings, and discussions to community
- Provide additional services: meeting spaces, kitchen/Food pantry, and medical/health offices
A guiding principle is the belief that community involvement coupled with public hands/service are central to the success and longevity of this Praia Branca community center. The work will not be complete without committed volunteers and sponsors of all ages. This will include builders, professionals, activists, and local government participation. Outside of Cape Verde, the community of Praia Branca will lean on the generous support of international sponsors. The long-term goal is for the center to be a community asset.