By Mark Scott
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wbfo/local-wbfo-839156.mp3
Buffalo, NY – Organizers of Brush Up Buffalo are gearing up for this year's project. They have targeted the University Heights neighborhood for a paint job on Saturday, June 20th.
Since 1996, volunteers from Brush Up Buffalo have painted more than 235 homes in all parts of the city. This year, the group's president Roseann Scibilia says 12 to 15 homes owned by low income families in University Heights will be painted.
Scibilia admits it's a neighborhood that could use some positive PR. It wasn't all that long ago that UB student Javon Jackson was shot to death in University Heights shortly after his graduation. UB's Director of Community Relations, Vince Clark, says crime isn't the only issue. The neighborhood also struggles with a large number of absentee landlords. While only owner-occupied homes will be painted, Clark says that will make a difference.
Clark is using this year's Brush-Up Buffalo to launch UB Community Day. He's hoping to sign up many volunteers from the university community. But Scibilia says anyone is invited to sign up. Check out Brush Up Buffalo's website for complete details.
Scibilia says they're looking for at least 500 volunteers and an additional $5,000 in sponsorship support.