HUNTSVILLE, Ala — Thursday, leaders cut the ribbon for a new center in Huntsville that’s the second of its kind in the state. EnVision Centers provide programs and services for residents, and a new one is opening its doors in the Northwoods Housing Development.
The new EnVision Center is located at the Cavalry Hills Center, within the Northwoods Public Housing Development. The goal is to offer programs to help local residents with education, medical care and job development opportunities.
We spoke with Antonio McGinnis, Executive Director of the Huntsville Housing Authority after the ribbon cutting ceremony. He says, “Our goal is for these organizations to come together to provide services, classes, resources so that families can become self-sufficient.”
McGinnis says job training is essential, especially as the city continues to grow. He adds, "I think sometimes our communities get overlooked. Jobs come to Huntsville and our residents are unequipped to apply for those jobs. So, this will be an opportunity to help equip our residents with the tools they’d need to go out and compete for the jobs that are coming to Huntsville.”
A representative from the “It is very much about ‘How do we empower people to be able to better themselves and their families?’ I think this EnVision Center is an exceptional way to do just that.”
The Calvary Center already offers programs through Boys & Girls Clubs, the public library, Parks & Recreation, and Village of Promise. The EnVision Center is expected to only add to it.
The partners say this is opening the window to impact more lives.
Patrick Wynn, President of of the Boys and Girls Club of North Alabama says during the ceremony, “It’s such a great sight to see the Housing Authority play such a big part in this community.
Organizers say they'll be spending a lot of time getting the word about these new opportunities. Quisha Bryant, Deputy Executive Director of the Huntsville Housing Authority adds, “We look forward to reaching out to our residents. Whether that’s in person or leaving information on their doors, or sending them letters so they can be aware of all the great things that are offered.”
We’re told residents can come out to receive services today.