WHAT’S THE ISSUE
Spooktacular Recap
Out-of-School
Raiders Homecoming
Money Mentality
TACOLCY Testimonies
Upcoming Events
TACOLCY PRESS the
Aaliyah Fisher Editor in Chief
A NOTE FROM OUR EDITOR
Welcome to the second edition of our newsletter! ��
This month, we brought the spirit of Halloween to life at our Spooktacular event, featuring a spooky haunted house, Club TACOLCY students got a valuable financial literacy lesson, helping to build life skills they can use beyond the classroom. We also highlighted our After-School Program, which continues to enrich young minds through homework help, fitness, arts, and STEM activities. To cap off the month, we celebrated our Athletics Department’s Homecoming Court, a wonderful display of pride and community support for our young athletes. Enjoy the read! ��
AJOURNEYOFRESILIENCEANDHOPE
ft. Valerie Hyman
When Valerie Hyman first stepped into the Belafonte TACOLCY Center in Miami, she was simply seeking a moment of relief a brief respite from her challenges. A single mother of five, Valerie had been navigating the difficult terrain of homelessness, living out of her car while balancing the demands of both parenthood and work. Little did she know that her visit would mark the beginning of a life-changing journey toward stability and purpose.
"As a former foster child, teenage parent, and someone who has experienced physical, verbal, and emotional abuse, I know the challenge of trusting and believing that people genuinely care for my well-being,” said Valerie.
Valerie’s story took a hopeful turn when she met Shownda Pagan, the CEO of the Belafonte TACOLCY Center. During their candid conversation, Pagan quickly realized Valerie’s need for immediate assistance
Although Valerie held a job, she struggled to perform her tasks without access to basic resources like WiFi and a computer. In a testament to her compassionate leadership, Pagan acted swiftly, securing temporary shelter for Valerie and her children. As Pagan put it, it was “hashtag handled.” But true to the TACOLCY Center’s mission, this was only the beginning of the support they would provide.
IF YOU MAKE YOUR BUSINESS ABOUT HELPING OTHERS, YOU’LL ALWAYS HAVE PLENTY OF WORK. CHRIS GUILLEBEAU -
Story continued on Page 5
https://tacolcy.harnessgiving.org/campaigns/16059
THE TACOLCY PRESS
From JOURNEY OF RESILIENCE
Cont’d
“Alongside my faith in God, optimism, and the support of the TACOLCY staff, I finally believe in the hope, love, and care that my family and I deserve,” said Valerie
Today, Valerie’s journey has come full circle Now serving as the Family Village Program Facilitator at TACOLCY, she shares her experiences to empower other parents through culturally relevant classes and community-building initiatives In her new role, she teaches other parents that it truly “takes a village” to raise children, especially in challenging times Through her work, Valerie embodies the very spirit of resilience, offering other parents a chance to rebuild, just as she did
The Family Village Parenting Program is a sub section of the We Care Department It provides a 13-session course offering caregivers vital guidance on their parenthood journey whilst simultaneously serving as a safe space for parents to gather and share experiences without judgment and heal their own inner child
A new co-hort is set to run from November to February, with Valerie leading the charge with grace and empathy.
“I will forever be grateful to BTC and am looking forward to paying it forward someday soon. In the words of Chris Guillebeau, 'If you make your business about helping others, you'll always have plenty of work,' says Valerie. “TACOLCY has much work to do, and it’s my hope and prayer that their resources continue to grow for the people of the Liberty City community."
Valerie’s story is one of triumph over adversity, supported by an organization dedicated to creating pathways to stability and empowerment. Through her journey, the Belafonte TACOLCY Center affirms its commitment to the Liberty City community, providing not just immediate support, but a foundation for lasting change.
Valerie Hyman and two of her sons, Lawrence (Spiderman) Christian (Deadpool) at TACOLCY’s 2nd Annual Spooktacular event.
Oct. 26, 2024 | Liberty City, Miami
Valerie Hyman calling Pokeno at TACOLCY’s 2nd Annual Spooktacular event.
Oct. 26, 2024 | Liberty City, Miami
SPOOKTACULAR2024
Our recent Spooktacular event was one for the books! Families enjoyed art stations where kids (and some parents!) decorated masks and made spooky slime, while adults joined the fun with a lively game of Pokeno for a chance to win gift cards. Our haunted house brought the scares, leaving a few brave souls—kids, parents, and even a staff member—in (happy?) tears! Special guests Spider-Man and Deadpool added to the excitement, bringing smiles and superhero energy to the kids. A huge thanks to everyone who joined us and made it an unforgettable day of community fun!
Arts & Crafts
Adult Games Station
At last year’s Spooktacular event, our parents did not have much to do. This year, we changed that, implementing an “Adult’s Game Station where they played Pokeno for the chance to win a giftcard!
There were three arts and crafts stations for the kiddos to create their own spooky masks or gooey slime. Turns out, most of our parents participated in the arts as well!
FREE COSTUMES!
Big thanks to Share the Boo for helping make Spooktacular unforgettable! Thanks to their generous donation of new and gently used costumes, so many kids got to join the fun dressed as their favorite characters!
Live Characters
Superheroes, Deadpool and Spiderman, arguably stole the show. Bringing the full on superhero vibes, these two never broke character. Brothers, Lawrence and Christian Adderly, took their roles very seriously. From hanging upside down on playground equipment to flicking it up with all the kiddos. Needless to say, they brought the power!
AUTHOR’S CORNER
BY:SHENEKABROWN
During our Spooktacular event, we featured an ‘Author’s Corner’ in collaboration with Justice League Miami. Author of the book “Autism: There is Something Special About Me,” Sheneka Brown read her book live for our young attendees. During the story, they got to hear about a young boy with autism learning how his unique differences are his superpower! A message we all can resonate with, regardless of age.
Learn more from Sheneka Brown on our Instagram and TikTok accounts! @tacolcymiami
Get Ready for the Color Splash for Care: A Run for a Brighter Future!
December 14, 2024 | Liberty City, Miami
We are thrilled to invite you to participate in the upcoming Color Splash for Care event, a fun-filled color run happening on December 14, 2024, right here in Liberty City! This exciting event is not just about running it’s about making a lasting impact on the lives of our youth
Community-based organizations, nonprofit agencies, and schools are encouraged to get involved by motivating their staff, students, and clients to fundraise on their behalf. Funds raised during the Color Splash will directly support vital youth programs and foster community wellness
Two Levels of Participation:
Tier 1: Raise $5,000 or more, and 80% of your funds will go into a shared pot, evenly distributed among all Tier 1 organizations
Tier 2: Raise between $250 and $4,999, and your organization will keep 60% of the funds raised by your network.
Everyone Wins: All participating organizations will benefit by receiving a portion of the funds raised, depending on their tier of participation.
We look forward to your organization joining this colorful celebration of community, wellness, and youth empowerment. Stay tuned for more details on how to register and start fundraising! Together, we can make a brighter future for the youth of Liberty City.
Stay tuned for more information. If you’d like your school, community-based organization, or nonprofit to participate, please email spagan@tacolcy.org for more information
Warm regards,
Oronde Taliaferro, Founder, C2C E.P.I.C. Youth
CEO,
TESTIMONIALS
FIORELLA REYNA
A Mother’s Perspective: Building Community Through Events That Matter
For Fiorella Reyna, attending community events like the Spooktacular isn’t just a way to celebrate Halloween; it’s about building a supportive environment for her family and the neighborhood. “It’s nice to see people come together, especially grown-ups, ” she shared. “Not only for the kids, but for everybody, our community itself.”
As a survivor of domestic violence, Reyna knows the importance of having a safe, positive space to gather, especially for children. “We do normal things with our kids so that way we can also implement that in our families,” she said, adding that events like these help her children “have more pride and more knowledge” about positive choices.
Reyna has been a part of many of our organization’s programs “My son used to come here for summer camp, he does the afterschool any little activities, we come, ” she said. “We did the gala before, and that was beautiful.”
Reflecting on the impact of these events, she said with a smile, “For all of us to be together and be humans, not crazy and ghetto like they wanna say that we are. We’re having fun.” For Reyna and families like hers, events like Spooktacular offer not only enjoyment but also a reminder of the resilience and unity within their community.
SCHOOLOUT-OF
Our “Future Legends” program at our provides elementary-aged children with comprehensive afterschool care Students from qualifying schools are either brought to our main site or participate in the program at their own school until parents arrive. The program offers homework help, nutritious snacks, physical fitness, arts and culture lessons, and STEM activities.
Currently, we the bulk of our students are at Holmes Elementary School and Charles R Drew K-8th Center
Martiska Thompson Director of OOS
Louis Joseph Director of OOS
MoneyMentality
withMs.TeefromEdFed
Financial literacy is a vital skill, especially for high school students on the cusp of independence Understanding money management early can empower teens to make informed decisions and set the stage for a stable future Here are a few core areas of financial literacy that can help teens establish good habits
From budgeting to investing, to making smart spending choices in the age of influencers and social media -- Thedl “Tee” Nicolas from Ed Fed came equipped, ready to drop some knowledge Not only is the information relevant to high school students, but we think even adults can benefit from these financial tips
BudgetingBasics
Learning to budget is essential, even for students with limited income. By tracking expenses and setting aside money for essentials and savings, teens develop habits that can prevent debt later on A simple monthly budget that balances allowances or part-time income with spending on school supplies, hobbies, or outings is a great start
SavingandInvesting
Saving isn’t just about putting money aside; it’s about building a cushion for future goals Many banks now offer accounts specifically for teens, allowing them to save while learning about interest. Additionally, introducing basic investment concepts, such as compound interest and the benefits of starting young, can make a lasting impact.
UnderstandingCredit
While credit cards might seem distant, understanding how credit works prepares teens for future responsibilities. This includes knowing the impact of interest rates and credit scores, as well as how credit can affect buying a car, renting an apartment, or taking out a loan.
SmartSpending
Teens are constantly marketed to, which can make spending wisely a challenge Teaching them to recognize the difference between needs and wants, along with the consequences of debt, encourages thoughtful purchasing decisions
Royal Court
6U 8U 10U 11U 12U 13U
Dwarne Hawkins Keallah Dillard
Bryson Howard Bri’Asia Jones
Masiah Christian Asia Woodside
DarriusBritt Jaz’Riyah Carr
Antonio Jones Samiyah Oridge
Amauri Caldwell Samaria Oridge
Mr. & Mrs. TACOLCY
Khilani Washington
Tanisha Hall
UPCOMING EVENTS UPCOMING EVENTS UPCOMING EVENTS
NOVEMBER 13
Takepartincongratulatingthe peopleandorganizationswhohave madetheprogramsandservicesat BelafonteTACOLCYCenterpossible.
RSVP LINK FOR PHILANTHROPY DAY*
NOVEMBER 23
Features a fellowship turkey dinner and obstacle course for the kids.
NOVEMBER 21 Follow us
Anopportunitytoraise additionalfundsfortheagency withamatchpotential.
DECEMBER 7
BringingwintertoSouth Floridawherechildrenand thefamiliescanenjoya festivewinter-themed immersiveexperience!
THE TACOLCY PRESS
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