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Winner: Greater Miami Service Corps

Through the Quality Neighborhood Improvement Program (QNIP), Corpsmembers repair and/or install sidewalks in local neighborhoods.  Since April 2007, 16 Corpsmembers have received hands-on experience installing 13,961 linear feet of sidewalk.  This partnership is mutually beneficial to all partners, achieving each entity’s organizational goals.  QNIP enhances property values in inner-city areas, many of which never had sidewalks.  In addition, Corpsmembers are trained and prepared for work opportunities in the construction field, a high growth area in South Florida. 

The partners include: Miami Dade County Board of Commissioners (set-aside funding for youth workforce development opportunities); Community Action Agency (intermediary with that allows Corps to obtain contract); The Office of Capital Management (policy support and tracking of all capital project completion); Miami-Dade Public Works (project oversight and inspections); Rainbow Enterprises (engineering sub-contractor and project superintendent); Miami-Dade Public Schools/Lindsey Hopkins Technical Education Center (academic, vocational, and GED training/scholarships); Miami Gardens Job Corps (academic and vocational training for co-enrolled youth); and The Greater Miami Service Corps (pre-employment and life skills, work experience, service learning, counseling, educational opportunities, internships, and job placement).