Norwalk EnVision Center Opens the Door to Opportunity

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The Hour - October 1, 2020
by Ben Carson

EnVision Centers were created with a simple goal in mind: to empower people to reach their highest potentials. Today, HUD is proud to make this vision a reality for your community with the opening of the Norwalk EnVision Center.

HUD's designation of an EnVision Center at this beautiful new site confirms and strengthens our partnership with the Norwalk community to improve its residents' lives. EnVision Centers take a holistic approach, going beyond brick and mortar investments by investing in what matters most - people.

EnVision Centers were conceived from the belief that HUD's true measure of success is not how many individuals we can bring on to our assistance programs, but how many we can lift up and off of government assistance and set on the path to self-sufficiency. EnVision Centers aim to empower Americans to stand on their own.

We work to achieve this goal of empowering people to fulfill their potential by providing the tools they need to succeed, all located in one centralized hub.

 
EnVision Centers leverage local resources and private funding to supply education, job training, financial literacy, and mentoring to Americans looking for a hand up. That way, these centers can cultivate the four pillars of self-sufficiency: character and leadership, educational advancement, economic empowerment, and health and wellness.

HUD appreciates the hard work that goes into fulfilling this vision, along with the commitment of the Norwalk Housing Authority, the City of Norwalk, the residents of Washington Village and South Norwalk, and the collaboration of community partners such as Norwalk Community College, Norwalk Community Health Center, Silvermine Art Guild, and Bridgeport Neighborhood Trust. Your efforts are making this neighborhood transformation a reality.

As I've traveled the country and visited several centers in action, I've seen the great promise and tremendous potential unlocked through HUD's EnVision Center initiative. I've met the people whose lives have been changed for the better after stepping foot inside. I look forward to seeing what is in store for this community with this new designation.

In his inaugural address, President Trump promised "the forgotten men and women of America will no longer be forgotten." Over the past three and a half years, the Trump Administration has worked to help Americans at the margins and create opportunities for everyone to pursue the American Dream. EnVision Centers are an example of the fruits of these efforts, and together, we can provide a bright new future for individuals across our great Nation.

On behalf of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, I would like to express my congratulations to the Norwalk community in celebrating the grand opening of Soundview Landing and the Norwalk EnVision Center.

And to the residents of Soundview Landing - Welcome Home.

Ben Carson is secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.