The Mount Vernon Community that Cares (M.V.C.T.C) utilizes the Communities that Cares model which is a research-based operating system that brings together all segments of a community in a coalition that works to promote positive youth development.  MVCTC helps young people bond to healthy individuals, institutions, and communities so they are more likely to develop healthy behaviors.  M.V.C.T.C was established as a coalition in 2000 and are focused on the following risk factors:

• Family Conflict
• Gang Involvement
• Low Neighborhood Attachment
• Poor Academic Performance

The coalition includes many sectors of the community such as the police department, schools, social services, parents, government, and faith-based community.  We support summer activities, school-based programs, community education activities, parents forums, and more.  We have identified needs and brought resources into our community through resource fairs, school assemblies, and town hall meetings. Meetings are held every 3rd Tuesday of each month at the Mount Vernon Public Library.  The events, activities, and work done by this coalition are made possible because of the support of the Mount Vernon Youth Bureau and the City of Mount Vernon.  This program is generously funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration through a Drug-Free Community grant.