Urban Village Agency to Hold Open House

Continuing its evolution from a school-based parents’ group to a communitywide social service agency, the Pacoima Urban Village will hold an open house Friday to celebrate its move from campus to a Van Nuys apartment complex.

Named for the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child,” the Pacoima Urban Village is an extension of the Family Center at Vaughn Next Century Learning Center, a L.A. Unified School District charter school in Pacoima.

What started two years ago as a loose-knit group of Vaughn parents who organized to address school issues has grown into a valued community resource, said Jorge Lara, Urban Village president.

The Urban Village offers parent education, job training and referrals, counseling, health and dental care, and other services to northeast Valley residents. Those who receive help are encouraged to give something in return, such as volunteering for Urban Village programs or taking English classes.

“What we are about is helping people to help themselves,” Lara said. “As we developed, we decided that educational issues should not be our only concern. We wanted to get more involved with the community.”

Two months ago the Urban Village began its move from the Vaughn campus into a two-bedroom apartment in the Van Nuys Pierce Park Apartments. The space was donated by the building’s owner, who has also offered to let the group use other facilities at the complex, including a conference room.

Local political leaders, including Rep. Howard Berman (D-Mission Hills), Assemblyman Tony Cardenas (D-Sylmar) and City Councilman Richard Alarcon are scheduled to attend Friday’s open house.

The event, to include speakers, entertainment and an award ceremony to honor individuals who have contributed to the Urban Village, is free and open to the public.

The open house is scheduled for the Urban Village’s new location, 12700 Van Nuys Blvd. For more information, call (818) 834-9557.