This article is from the Extension Connection newsletter, Fall 2005.

Cedar Rapids children are safer now than they were nine years ago, thanks in part to the Partnership for Safe Families project, a coalition of agencies addressing local child and family safety issues. One component of that project, Neighborhood Partners, is coordinated by Iowa State University Extension in Linn County. Extension recruits and trains volunteers who live in the five targeted neighborhoods.

Karen Gorsch is a natural neighborhood leader; a good neighbor who says that lending a hand is second nature, the way she grew up. Carole and Ralph Schmidt have lived in their neighborhood 33 years and are known for their generosity when a neighbor is in need. Because of their inherent neighborliness, these three were ideal candidates for Neighborhood Partners.

“We look for people who are already involved in the neighborhood,” said Dustin Hinrichs, an ISU Extension coordinator for Neighborhood Partners. “They are key people who are willing to go above and beyond the normal neighborliness to improve conditions for children and families.”

Whether someone needs a bicycle or a piece of furniture, Ralph and Carole Schmidt are the neighbors to contact. Children also turn to the Schmidts when things get bad at home and they are scared. Extension trainings give the couple additional resources to rely on in such times.

“We welcome them into our home, or go into their home as a neighbor, as a friend — not as part of some agency,” said Carole Schmidt. “We’re definitely seeing a difference in our neighborhood. The neighborhood is cleaner and safer. People are looking out for one another and not feeling ashamed. Families who have received help are the first to help others.”

The monthly ISU Extension training sessions have helped Gorsch make connections with other volunteers. “Every volunteer has a special interest and different connections. Through the trainings we get to know each other, what the needs of other neighborhoods are and can help spread the resources to those in need.”

In 2004, the 24 Neighborhood Partners made 5,882 contacts as volunteers — reaching children 2,866 times. Partnership for Safe Families has been active for nine years, and in recent years Linn County has shown one of the lowest reentry rates to the Child Protective Services System in Iowa. The project has become a nationally recognized model.

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