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WHEREAS, the MGR Foundation, built on the ideals of active volunteerism and community development, has taken on the initiative of breaking down social and economic barriers in our community to create a more cohesive and shared experience for emerging populations within Pittsburgh; and,
WHEREAS, focusing on the potential of our youth to become pillars of change, the MGR Foundation has made immense strides in integrating refugee populations into existing urban communities, utilizing an overall sense of philanthropy and empathy towards our fellow global citizens. The foundation aims to encourage young people to make healthy lifestyle choices and raise their sense of self-esteem and confidence in their abilities, through increased interactions with adult role models; and,
WHEREAS, MGR Foundation seeks to fight existing stereotypes of urban communities. Through outreach and innovative programs, the MGR Foundation tackles issues of violence, social inequities, and racial tension, to create one dynamic tapestry of social change. Over the past year, the MGR Foundation has served 14 sites across the City of Pittsburgh; and,
WHEREAS, MGR Foundation's after school Murals program undertook the enormous task of understanding violence through the arts. With the aid of local teaching artists, students explored their personal experiences with violence and envisioned peaceful alternatives through visual art, drama, dance, and music. The MGR Foundation has held community celebrations, art gallery openings, and peace rallies to bring the students' voice to the City of Pittsburgh; and,
WHEREAS, with the creation of MGR Foundation's Youth Cycling: Positive Spin program, high school students will increase their physical activity and understanding of healthy lifestyle choices. This exciting cycling program encourages healthy living through mentoring, health and fitness activities, and the exploration of alternative forms of transportation; and,
WHEREAS, on Saturday, June 21, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., the MGR Foundation, along with students at Arsenal Middle School, will host their third monthly Community Art Day at Milestone Centers Inc./Everyone an Artist Gallery in Lawrenceville. This event is aimed at building relationships among community members, families, and children through the shared experience of making art.
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh hereby applauds the community-building efforts of the MGR Foundation as it instills at-risk youth with a sense of belonging in their respective communities and empowers each of them to improve their surrounding environment; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh declares Saturday, June 21, 2008, the third Community Art Day in Lawrenceville, to be “MGR Foundation Day” in the City of Pittsburgh.