WS Chronicle

On Thursday, Dec. 15, Honorable Youth, Inc., a local nonprofit that offers programs and other initiatives for single mothers and their children, will host their annual Holiday Fundraiser. All proceeds from the fundraiser will go toward the nonprofit’s Salem Co-Housing Project.

The mission of Honorable Youth, Inc. (HYI), which was founded by Rasheeda Shankle, is to inspire youth and their parents to reach their full potential, by providing them with resources they need to thrive, be better citizens, and help them achieve intergenerational economic security. Since 2016, HYI has hosted their Holiday Fundraiser to help raise funds for the various programs they offer. This year’s event will feature live entertainment, a silent auction, hors d’oeuvres, a raffle, and much more. 

Proceeds from the silent auction, ticket sales, and other donations received will help Shankle and HYI move forward with the Salem Co-Housing Project, an affordable co-housing development designed to help youth and their parents achieve economic stability. 

According to their website, the idea for the co-housing project sprang from several interest meetings and a needs assessment survey. During those meetings, participants discussed the idea of living together communally to raise their children while working toward their goals. This summer HYI unveiled designs and plans for the Salem Co-Housing Project. 

The living space which was designed by STITCH Design Shop architectural firm. The design includes concepts of private homes clustered around the sharing of resources among residents; such as daily free educational programs, childcare, parenting classes, career development opportunities, skill training and physiological support. Construction of the project is expected to be completed in 2024. 

In addition to helping local single mothers, the Salem Co-Housing Project will also help the City of Winston-Salem address some of the issues with available affordable housing. Earlier this year, Mayor Allen Joines announced his goal to create 750 units of affordable housing each year for the next ten years. 

The sixth annual Honorable Youth, Inc. Holiday Fundraiser will be held on Thursday, Dec. 15, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Fiddlin’ Fish, 772 N. Trade Street. For more information or to purchase a ticket visit https://www.honorableyouth.org/home.