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Self-Help's community development program works as a catalyst in seeking funding and technical assistance for communities developing water and wastewater systems. In addition to bearing a disproportionate share of substandard housing, small rural communities in the Valley often lack the most basic of services - clean drinking water and sanitary sewer systems. SHE provides human resources and the technical assistance necessary to these small towns to develop adequate water delivery and wastewater disposal systems.
Often located amidst vast agricultural areas, rural residents have historically relied on well water that is often tainted by pesticides or other contaminants. SHE works with the community to identify health threats, advocate for action, and coordinate appropriate remediation. Many of these communities have also relied upon antiquated septic systems for wastewater disposal. Such systems can cause significant health and safety problems and pose a threat to precious groundwater supplies. SHE works with communities to address this need, which often results in the development of new community sewer systems.
In these endeavors, SHE works with local residents to form special service districts, prepare funding applications, monitor engineering services, and implement adequate maintenance and accounting programs. SHE staff are often the catalysts in matching funding sources with local residents, providing leadership training to new and existing community boards. Infrastructure development often lays the foundation for community growth and improvement. Often, sewer and water activities result in the ultimate development of housing through SHE's self-help and multi-family programs. As such, Community Development is a critical component in the continuum of rural community growth and viability. For more information please contact us: Tel. (559) 651-1000 or e-mail info@selfhelpenterprises.org |
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| "If Self-Help hadn't shown
up we would be wearing rubber boots by now." Felix Huerta, Community Leader |
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