federal Department of Health and Human Services’ Drug Free Communities Grant. Jalila Walker said she’s not worried about the end of redevelopment funding. “I don’t think it will affect NATHA in a negative way,” she said. “We’ve been able to survive here for a long period of time. A lot of our resources come from our parents and community partners who support what we do, and so that’s how we really survive. It’s about the commitment of our community partners and the parents and people who work here still willing to make it work.” In the future, Walker would like to see NATHA expand its services to include resources for young adults who have graduated from high school and are either looking for a job or applying to colleges. “I think young people who are fresh out of high school, until
they are about 24 years old, need a place to go where they can learn skills, such as writing resumes and cover letters,” she said, “as well as find out what other options they have, like internships or externships or volunteering somewhere. Because even if they can’t get a job, there are still opportunities where they can get the skills they need to succeed.” NATHA’s staff is actively working toward realizing that goal of expanding the organization to include those kinds of programs. “We appreciate those who remember that we’re here and come by to offer their services,” said Walker. “That’s what it’s about, taking care of each other and making sure that people are successful in society.” ■ To learn more about NATHA, call (626) 794-5889 or visit natha.org. E D U C AT I O N G U I D E 2 0 1 2 PA S A D E N A W E E K LY • 9