But SCC’s approach sets them apart from other agencies and organizations with similar missions. Just ask Sabrina Clark-Bentley, who came to SCC in early 2002.

“When I started with SCC, I didn’t have any real skills to get a job. And the idea of doing manual labor just didn’t appeal to me.”

“But once I found out what it was really about, I learned that I love working with pipe, and that I’m good at it, too.”

The work experience and services provided by SCC helped Clark-Bentley get a full-time union position with Seattle Public Utilities in late 2003.

She says, “I love what I do. I support myself and I help the people of Seattle through my work. It would never have happened without SCC.”

SCC pays multiple dividends

Founded in 1986, SCC is part of the Seattle Parks Department.

The program offers participants the chance to gain real work experience by completing privately and publicly funded work projects that create greenspace, improve parks, and enhance community areas. Training, counseling, and education sessions help participants learn life skills that complement their work experience.

This unique combination of working and learning in a structured environment pays off. Participants gain long-term employment and personal stability, the City of Seattle saves money and the community becomes a nicer place to live.

Success is in the numbers

Sabrina Clark-Bentley’s story isn’t the only one like it. Since 2001, nearly 80% of SCC clients have moved to unsubsidized housing and 87% found jobs. 75% were still working nine months later.

Participants have also earned GEDs, gained flagging or first aid certifications, and learned defensive driving.

Program saves tax dollars

SCC earns nearly three-fourths of the income it needs to fund its services by contracting for small works projects with several City of Seattle departments and the Port of Seattle.

This unique approach to funding gets double duty from local government tax revenues – using them once to complete the projects, and again to help end homelessness in Seattle.

SCC saves additional tax dollars by reducing client dependence on government subsidies and providing low-cost services for local governments. The upshot is that SCC requires only a marginal additional investment from city coffers.

Improving quality of life for all

SCC’s contributions go beyond the monetary by enhancing Seattle’s quality of life.

Contracting with the City of Seattle and the Port of Seattle, SCC has completed:

• Parks upgrades in low- and moderate-income neighborhoods.
• Urban tree replacement & tree care for Seattle City Light.
• Facilities maintenance and special projects at Sand Point Park.
• Landscaping and public path construction at Terminal 108.
• Intertidal restoration at Terminal 105.

Those who contract with SCC for projects are pleased with the results.

“They’re flexible, adaptable, and cost-effective, ” says Karen Galt of the Seattle Parks Department.

“I know...from my own experience that SCC...can do challenging jobs cost-effectively, correctly, and responsibly,” says George Blomberg at the Port of Seattle.

A program to be proud of

SCC is a unique city program with a proven record of positive results.

Today, their work is more critical than ever – not just as part of the social safety net, but for its multiple contributions to neighborhoods, the city’s bottom line, and community quality of life.

Cathie Anderson, Program Supervisor with Seattle Parks and Recreation, is justifiably proud of SCC’s results.

“We’re pleased with what we’ve accomplished,” adding, “we’re looking forward to many more years of work changing lives – and changing Seattle – for the better.”

For more information about SCC, contact Cathie Andersen at (206) 684-0190.