The South Arsenal Neighborhood Development (SAND) Corporation was incorporated in 1968 as the first neighborhood development corporation in the State. Its original mission was to develop the South Arsenal Apartment complex (272 units). SAND then expanded its focus and became the primary deliverer of social services to the residents in the South Arsenal neighborhood.
SAND's goal is to improve the economic, physical and social condition of its service population. Many different activities are offered to assist in obtaining this goal. They include:
Youth recreation programs that prevent at-risk behaviors (includes Little League, Midget Football, Male/Female Youth Groups, Summer CAMP.)
Adult recreation programs (Over 30/ Over 40 Basketball Leagues, Ladies League)
Cultural enrichment programs that recognize the diversity of our neighborhood (African dance, Kwanzaa, Community Day, Gospel Choir)
Employment and training programs to assist in achieving economic independence (GED and occupational skills training referrals, Young Fathers Program, Summer Youth Employment, Summer Youth Job Readiness)
Primary and preventive health education to assist in early identification and treatment of preventable illness (SAND Senior Center VNA visits, annual flu shots, high blood pressure and diabetes screenings, semi-annual mammogram van visits, Hartford Child Immunization Project, AIDS education)
SAND's co-location with the SAND Everywhere School also provides an opportunity for SAND to work closely with the teachers and administration in providing a comprehensive approach to education for these elementary school students. SAND has been a United Way funded agency since 1973. In addition, SAND is fortunate to be the recipients of City, State and corporate funds for direct program delivery to youth and families. It is SAND's responsibility to provide programs and activities to meet the multiple needs of North Hartford, and as it enters its 33rd year SAND will continue to respond to the residents of the community.