North Gulfport Community Land Conservancy Inc

Programs: Affordable housing-the organization has acquired 61 parcels of land since its inception to build afforable houses for low to middle income families in the area. Currently, there are an estimated 759 households with 35% in need of affordable housing. More than half of the 759 households pay more than 50% of their per annum income to housing, leaving very little for their basic necessities. In 2010, the orgnaization had two houses scheduled for demolition donated to them. Restoration was succesful with the help of mdha, national community landtrust and 50 volunteers from americorp and vision service adventures. Environmental justice - the organizataion continues to struggle with combating the gulfport port expansion which would entail filling 162 acres of wetlands. This wetland fill increases flooding, air pollution and noise. The organization is working to protect low-income individuals from these conditions. The organization has partnered with steps coalition to challenge expansion project; numerous meetings with residents and officials have occurred, averaging 100 residents are more than 20 meetings in various locations. Youth symphony orchestra - the north gulfport youth symphony orchestra program began in 2010 at the north gulfport community land trust. This program was created to give free lessons to the children of the community, who had little or no access to clubs or programs outside of the area. Seven instruments were purchased and three were donated. These instruments include violin, viola, cello and string bass. Like other after school programs, a free music class can help provide children with a positive creative outlet and discourage wayward behavior. Learning classical music is proven to enrich aptitude in other school subjects, such as math and english. Practicing and performing with a musical group can give a child discipline and confidence in themselves, while providing opportunities to travel and meet fellow musicians from diverse cultures.