SCI Dorchester offers programming in the following priority areas. Click on the programming areas for more specific programming information:

1) Engaging Youth SCI realizes a focus on youth is essential if we are to reverse the long-term decline in civic engagement. In particular, there is a need to encourage youth to participate in the political process. The Dorchester Youth Council, coordinated by SCI along with DotWell, trains youth to mobilize their peers to come civically engaged. Youth Council projects include running a mini-grants program to support youth-initiated projects to participating in various service learning projects and community events. Youth involved in Summer Serve are reaching out to Dorchester youth, connecting them with opportunities and activities, working with the Louis D. Brown Peace Institute on a youth-focused project in support of their Peace Campaign and researching Dorchester neighborhoods to educate youth about Dorchester called DOT SPOTS.

2) Uniting Diverse People and Groups SCI collaborates with other community groups to plan community events that bring people together. Our neighbor-to-neighbor initiative will help to connect neighbors with each other.

3) Developing Community Leaders SCI develops the leadership skills of community residents through a number of projects. The VIP Volunteer Program is an opportunity for residents, civic groups, and non-profit organizations to get connected to volunteer opportunities in the Dorchester community.

4) Connecting Citizens to Information Combines the use of information technology and old-fashioned face-to-face contact to provide citizens with information they need to participate in civic life. The Dorchester e-BLAST provides weekly updates on community events, opportunities, and announcements. The Guide Project will enable individuals and groups to become more involved in the community and will support the work of community organizations and agencies through out Dorchester, helping them to render service more effectively and creating the opportunity to connect people with different resources.