One closes office, another gets stronger

SYRACUSE -- After 12 years, the Jenna Foundation for Non-Violence is shutting its Syracuse office doors, though it's not going out of business.

Janice Grieshaber Geddes, who has run the program since her daughter's murder, says it's hard, but with donations down, it's time to let go of the mentoring programs. She will now work out of her home, and keep talking about non-violence, and continue to advise on bills to protect from violent criminals.

The Foundation has donated its furniture, office equipment, and a portrait of Jenna to the Mary Nelson Youth Center on South Salina Street, which found itself in financial trouble this month. It now looks like the legacy, and the Nelson Center, are safe.

Mary Nelson was thousands behind in the rent to Catholic Charities, but on putting out word of the troubles, she's gotten help from her landlord in restructuring finances, She is currently in the process of putting the all-volunteer effort on better financial footing.  Nelson says she may have to quit her 'day job' with Upstate Medical Center to keep the youth programs going. She says she realizes she cannot just work longer to pay the bills herself.

The Center sees about 120 young people, pre-K to college age, and their parents daily.  It provides three meals daily for the youngsters, as well as computer resources, and even free haircuts. There is also health insurance info, clothes and toiletries, and even an emergency shelter for older clients.

Nelson has Jenna's portrait hanging in the lobby of her 'homey' center, saying the story of violence parallels her own family's experience.  She says the community's coming together, so she does not have to close her doors.  She also thanks all who are helping, including in ongoing events like a youth fair coming up at the Oncenter on November 14.

For more information on the Mary Nelson Center, call 422-5690 or visit www.youthdaybarbecue.com.

For more on the Jenna Foundation, call  422-0339 or visit  www.jennafoundation.org.