Asset Maps

50 Asset maps were done and we are compiling the data to be able to share with the community. Asset maps are really surveys where residents are asked what they like about their neighborhood, what they don't like, what they would like to learn and what can they offer other people. The goal is to match up assets with needs and be able to develop relationships where neighbors help their neighbors. Some of this has been happening. Often we have curious neighbors asking us what we are doing in the neighborhood and I listen as they tell me the stories. I usually find out that they have tried to help but couldn't anymore. They usually tell me that the recipient is more than deserving and I get to know a little about them and the people living nearby. This is the point. To use these maps and the other opportunities to be in the neighborhood as an avenue to develop relationships it what will transform this neighborhood.

The Beginning

Hi, My name is Sherie Collins and I’m one of the many people invested in the journey with a neighborhood called Granada Estates. Ten years ago Faith Bible Church made a commitment to stay in their neighborhood, build a new building and build community. At the ground breaking we promised the City of Glendale our support in any way they wanted to use us. The mustard seed of that promise to build community has blossomed into a group of faithful, active, forward-looking folks who are leading the way toward revitalizing Granada Estates. They include the City of Glendale, Local Police, the local schools and Faith Bible Church.

The boundaries of this neighborhood are Two blocks North of Paradise Lane, and south to Greenway, West to 73^rd avenue and east to 65^th Avenue. The neighborhood is divided by 67^th Avenue. This area was originally county land and was annexed into the City of Glendale. There are about 3000 residents in the area with about 200 students serviced by foothills elementary school, pioneer elementary school, and Cactus High school. Many of the mostly Anglo residents are older, raising grandchildren, on disability or on fixed incomes. Most of the 700 homes in the area are mobile or modular homes and 60%  are rentals.

Through the City, we got connected with the code compliance division and found that there were some people that didn't qualify for assistance, yet needed to clean up yards to avoid fines. Faith Bible Church has been able to fill in that gap with the power of volunteers and supporting the City of Glendale with options than fines for these residents.

We found out through the schools that several homes needed repairs, paint and food. Faith Bible Church and others have had several successful food drives to help keep the school pantry shelves full. Repairs have been made to many homes with the aid of organizations like Habitat for Humanity and Rebuilding Together. We have had many other professionals donate time, supplies and expertise to the work onn needed landscaping and air conditioners.

We were informed by the local police department that the residents of Granada Estates needed things for the kids to do during the summer to cut down on the summer crime rates. The residents are near a park that is too far for most kids to get to and there is no other central place for them to gather.

We were able to provide money to help the Cactus High school with their bridge program for at risk youth. This program serves at risk youth and gives them a better start in their freshman year. We also invited youth to attend our mid week hang out time.

For younger kids we sponsored them in summer school and Vacation Bible School in neighborhood homes. The YMCA provided a discount for Granada Estates residents and Faith Bible Church found people willing to sponsor a kid.

We have also had a little fun gathering together to celebrate and build community. Residents were offered free food, carnival games, bounce house fun, and community information. Midwestern University offered free dental screenings to residents and the youth of Faith Bible Church provided entertainment and a spiritual message of hope.

Blue Print Education has also given a resident hope when they gave them the opportunity to finish High School. Several residents have been tutored in areas of interest like finances and Mathematics.

The number of families that attend Faith Bible Church and live in Granada Estates, has grown. We are excited to know our neighbors better in Granada Estates and to be a positive influence as we get involved in the development of the larger community. We are committed to health and wholeness. In the process we get to learn from each other and we can both grow together.  Positive transformation improves the City of Glendale which impacts the state of Arizona. We face problems, issues, joys and triumphs, but the key is that we do it together. In Community, pushing for the ultimate goal - to build Community.