In 1996, MBSCC was one of five community-based organizations selected by the Edna McConnell Clark Foundation to participate in the Neighborhood Partners Initiative. NPI aimed to make concrete, measurable changes in vulnerable communities in Central Harlem and the South Bronx and to enhance the capacity of local residents and institutions to envision and effect change. As part of this initiative, MBSCC and neighborhood participants have succeeded in reducing crime; moving families from dependence to independence; and improved the overall quality of life. Much of our community building activities are in effect as a result of this comprehensive program.