Clayton, MO, December 8, 2017- St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger has released a document detailing the County’s implementation of numerous recommendations included in Forward Through Ferguson’s 2015 report. St. Louis County’s efforts to promote racial equity include:
- Securing over $63 million in grants within the Promise Zone to address racial and economic disparities. The Stenger administration secured this Federal designation that is a partnership between the Federal Government, St. Louis County and City. The St. Louis Promise Zone includes 28 St. Louis County municipalities and 11 city wards.
- Employment training at the County’s career centers in Ferguson, Wellston and Spanish Lake focused on good-paying jobs and free pre-apprenticeship training through a partnership with the United Auto Workers
- Among County Executive Stenger’s first actions after his election was the creation of the Office of Community Empowerment. Ethel Byndom, Community Empowerment’s director, has worked to connect those in need with St. Louis County resources. The Office has coordinated health clinics; financial advisory fairs, backpack giveaways for children and food drives.
- The St. Louis County Police Athletics/Activities League (PAL) has over 600 young people from North County enrolled in activities and over 200 police officers signed up to participate as coaches and sponsors. The Community Recruiter Program is a new St. Louis County Police initiative to add more “boots on the ground” to enhance diverse recruitment efforts for the police department.
“Our report details St. Louis County’s progress and our pending work with regard to the Forward Through Ferguson recommendations,” County Executive Stenger said. “It is important to inform the community about our ongoing efforts to address racial equity.”
Please visit the St. Louis County’s website to view the document.