Fostering self-reliant families and healthy, sustainable communities

May 2018

In this issue: 

 

As chaos swirls at the national level, I remain hopeful knowing there are thoughtful, hardworking people who partner with Isles to tackle tough challenges, build community, and make a difference. Your support makes this possible. This year's Annual Report shows our work in action.
 
Take, for example, the over 300 gardeners who make up Isles Garden Support Network. This year, these neighbors and friends will develop and maintain 70+ community and school gardens. Together, they grow healthy food for their families, cool the hot streets with green oases, reduce blight and vacancy (and related crime), and beautify neighborhood landscapes.  
 
Last week, I met with a group of new Isles Youth Institute students. Though they previously struggled in school, they are optimistic about the future. These students aren't just getting a high school diploma - they are learning vocations and becoming the next generation of leaders in their communities.
 
To make Trenton lead-safe within 10 years, community health workers, Princeton University students, IYI students, and local contractors are joining forces with Isles. The impact of removing lead from homes and backyards will be healthier kids and families, better students, reduced costs for criminal justice, lower health care costs, reduced energy bills, and more.
 
As Isles moves into the Social Profit Center at Mill One, we'll join the growing family of organizations, social businesses, and artists who share affordable spaces and technology in fun, energy efficient office, studio, meeting, and assembly spaces.
 
These examples are made possible by small groups of committed, optimistic people organizing to achieve powerful results. In fact, this month, 37 years ago, three of us started Isles with no funds, no track record, and limited life experiences. We didn't wait for Washington or a growing economy to solve our challenges. We thought we could make a difference, and we did. Of course, our work continues to evolve.
 
Enjoy the 2017 Annual Report and the impactful stories you've made possible. On behalf of all of those we serve, thank you.
 
Once more, we can't do this work without you. Please give generously today.
In community,
Marty Johnson  
"Why does Isles do this work, this way?" 
Marty Johnson explains on pg 3.

"James came in hungry and took advantage of what we had."  Read James' success story on pg 5.

"This is so important for our kids. People need to know what's going on what their water and paint."
Find out how Esther took action on pg 9.

"This is a glimpse of what's to come as the Social Profit Center becomes a flexible hub for social impact businesses, nonprofits, and artists."  Want to know what's happening at Mill One? Page 11.
Events events
Isles Youth Institute Commencement
The 2018 IYI Commencement will take place on Tuesday, June 19 at 10 AM at the Mercer County Park Marina and Boathouse. Commencement will include an awards ceremony and student speeches, with a reception to follow. All are welcome; if you would like to attend, please RSVP by Monday June 11th to aduggins@isles.org or 609-341-4751.
Isles Fall Fest
On November 3, 2018, Isles will hold its second annual Fall Fest at the Social Profit Center at Mill One. Last year's event was a sellout success as we celebrated the local community and Isles' work. Friends and supporters came together to savor the flavor of the Trenton area with an evening of local food, drinks, art, & entertainment and tours of Mill One. Save the date!