Empowering Newark's Youth: The HUBB Arts and Trauma Center's Mission to Entertain, Educate, and Empower
NEWARK, NJ / ACCESSWIRE / February 15, 2024 / Newark, New Jersey is a city often plagued by violence and crime. For years, traditional approaches such as heavy policing, incarceration, and foster care have failed to address the underlying issues facing marginalized communities.
However, there is a glimmer of hope, at least according to recently released data from the FBI, which reveals that crime rates in Newark continue to remain historically low. It's important to note that the cause of the positive trend in crime rates in Newark is reported to be the result of a combination of factors and collaborative efforts. While the presence of resources, programs, and initiatives has played a significant role, the crime rate reduction is an ongoing process that requires sustained commitment and continuous evaluation to ensure long-term success for the residents of the city.
One resource that is doing community work in Newark is the HUBB Arts & Trauma Center (ATC). The HUBB ATC is making strides in transforming the lives of at-risk and justice-impacted youth by utilizing a holistic approach that goes beyond conventional solutions, to directly helping to break the cycle of violence with these young people.
The HUBB ATC is a local, community-based violence intervention that exists to assist the youth of Newark providing healing programs, services, and events for underserved youth and their families through experiences that entertain, educate, and empower.
Al-Tariq Best, the founder and leader of the HUBB ATC, recognized the need for a different approach, one that takes into account the complete picture of an individual. By understanding the complex interplay of historical trauma, systemic injustices, educational disadvantages, and economic disparities, the HUBB ATC has become a cornerstone in the community and has emerged as a place of hope and healing.
By collaborating with organizations like Brick City Peace Collective (BCPC), the Office of Violence Prevention, the Newark Police Department, and the Newark Board of Education, The HUBB ATC has built strong partnerships that allow them to respond effectively to incidents of violence and conflict, particularly those occurring in and around school premises.
Through a data-informed and focused approach, The HUBB ATC has identified high-risk locations that have experienced a significant level of homicide, violence, and trauma. By combining this information with referrals from community partners, they have established micro and macro target areas to provide comprehensive wraparound services. This comprehensive approach aims to introduce universal protective factors to high-need locations, reaching entire populations, including schools and communities.
This type of work combined with the work of other organizations demonstrates that a comprehensive and collaborative approach, rooted in community engagement and addressing underlying issues, can make a tangible difference in reducing violence and crime. These kinds of efforts serve as a beacon of hope for Newark and a potential model for transforming communities nationwide.
The impact of The HUBB ATC's work extends far beyond Newark. By sharing their model and success, they hope to establish a standard for violence intervention and prevention nationwide. Their vision is to inspire the creation of similar centers in other high-risk cities, providing opportunities for those in need and offering second chances to those who have been failed by the system.
ABOUT HUBB ARTS & TRAUMA CENTER
The HUBB Arts & Trauma Center (ATC) is a 501c3 non-profit organization located in Newark, NJ. The HUBB Arts & Trauma Center is located at 135 Prince Street in Newark, NJ nestled on the site of a subsidized housing complex, a neighborhood of low-to very low-income families of color. The Mayor of Newark appointed the HUBB ATC as its 8th "Center of Hope." Al-Tariq Best is the founder and leader of the HUBB Arts & Trauma Center (ATC has over 25 years of supervisory, operations management, and multimedia technical experience. Best and the Foundation have received numerous awards among them for their work. Accolades include the Russ Berrie "Making A Difference" Award, "The Spirit of Newark" by Newark Now and former Mayor now US Senator Cory A Booker; Citizen of the Year from Omega Psi Phi Fraternity; Community Service Award from NAACP; and Excellence in Community Service Award" by Odyssey International Productions. For more information, visit HUBB Arts & Trauma Center (ATC) online. For additional information, visit HUBB ATC on Facebook, Instagram, or X.
CONTACT:
Al-Tariq Best
info@thehubb-atc.org
973-900-6454
SOURCE: HUBB Arts & Trauma Center (ATC)
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