Words cannot describe how very proud I am to be associated with the Allegheny County Jail’s new “Family Activity Center,” since creating such a facility has been my dream for many years.

While we all may be familiar with the proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child,” let me be the first to state, “It takes hundreds of truly dedicated volunteers and staff members to make this dream a reality.”

Our unique initiative – a model program that I sincerely expect many of my peers throughout the nation to implement in the years ahead – has allowed more than 100 individuals and organizations to unite to work toward a very important common goal.

While the center’s size is relatively small, its purpose is certainly immense. It will serve as a comfortable setting for children to wait to visit their incarcerated parents – and equally important, it will encourage children to spend quality time interacting with their caregivers while they wait.

It will encourage these adult caregivers to connect with programs and services available in the community by visiting the “Resource Center,” where trained staff and volunteers will answer questions and make referrals.

The Family Activity Center is all about “connecting” with others.

It has increased community awareness of the “Children of Prisoners” initiative, and it has provided opportunities for many individuals and groups to become involved in a variety of ways.

On behalf of the children who will visit the Family Activity Center, I thank all who have helped to make this dream a reality!