Village Community Resource Center was born in response to a tragedy. In 1995, a 15-year-old child was shot and killed in a gang-related incident right here on Village Drive. Refusing to succumb to hopelessness, our community seized the opportunity to create a safe place for kids. Local homeowners, in partnership with the City of Brentwood and the Brentwood Police Department, established VCRC in 1997 as a community center – a safe, fun place where kids could gather, play, and enjoy arts and crafts. We demonstrated from the beginning that community commitment makes a difference in our kids’ lives. But quickly we saw we could do even more. Our kids deserve more than a refuge. They deserve an equal opportunity to thrive. Today, we provide that. Fueled by the generosity of donors, the compassion of our many volunteers, and by our full-time staff, VCRC has developed into a comprehensive East County resource for resilient families. Our programs interrupt the cycle of despair, giving families health- and prosperity-building tools so that they and their children can create better futures. As a community-based, family-focused 501(c)(3), we’re proud to have local support. Our staff and cohort of volunteers include former VCRC clients who can speak personally to our impact. With our integrated services, we partner with families for the long term, helping kids learn and stay healthy, helping parents navigate the school system and pursue their life priorities.