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DOVER HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION
The Dover Human Relations Commission (DHRC) meeting was held on October 27, 2015
at 5:15 p.m. with Chairwoman Smith presiding. Members present were Ms. Bogle, Ms. Griffith,
Mr. Henderson (departed at 6:13 p.m. and returned at 6:18 p.m.), Mr. McGiffin (departed at 5:45 p.m.),
Mr. Roach (arrived at 5:23 p.m.), and Mrs. Sadusky (departed at 6:39 p.m.).
AGENDA ADDITIONS/DELETIONS
Mr. Henderson moved for approval of the agenda, seconded by Mr. McGiffin and
unanimously carried.
DHRC Committee Updates
Government Policy, Programs, and Practices Committee
City of Dover Diversity Questionnaire
Mr. McGiffin explained that the Government Policy, Programs, and Practices (GPPP) Committee
was charged with examining the City’s policies, programs, and practices through the lens of diversity
to try to recognize the things that the City does well, identify those things that the City could use help
with, and advise Council on how to proceed. He indicated that former Chair Eugene Ruane had
researched this project and a questionnaire had been developed to survey staff in this regard.
Mr. McGiffin requested members’ permission to use this questionnaire as a starting point, stating
that if members approved the survey instrument, he would schedule interviews with key staff,
including the City Manager, Council President, and some of the department heads. An online survey
device, such as SurveyMonkey, would also be utilized, with the assistance of Mr. Andy Siegel, IT
Director. Mr. McGiffin explained that data would then be collected and reviewed.
Mr. McGiffin stated that he would like to have additional members on the GPPP Committee, noting
that at this time he was the only member. He advised that Mr. Roach had assisted in the
development of the diversity survey document but had not joined the Committee at this point.
Responding to Mr. Henderson regarding the need for additional members on the Committee,
Mr. McGiffin stated that he would like to have three (3) members.
Mr. Henderson volunteered to serve on the GPPP Committee.
Mr. McGiffin indicated that he would like to have two (2) members to conduct the interviews. He
noted that he had time available in December to work on this project and hoped to coordinate
interviews during that time.
Referring to the General Questions in the memorandum from Mr. McGiffin RE: Diversity Research
Project, Ms. Smith questioned the use of the word “value” in Question #2. In addition, she
questioned how “cultural competency” would be measured and what barometer would be used.
Mr. Henderson suggested pluralizing the word “value” and stated his opinion that “cultural
competency” was trying to convey the concept of sensitivity to the backgrounds of others.
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Mr. McGiffin stated that cultural competency was broader than this, but that sensitivity was part of
it.
Ms. Smith felt that every person would measure this differently and questioned what barometer
would be used to measure respondents’ feelings regarding whether diversity and cultural competency
are promoted by the City.
Mr. McGiffin stated that the survey would have a graded scale that is positive on one end, negative
on the other, and neutral in the middle, and respondents would be asked if they somewhat agree,
agree, somewhat disagree, disagree, or have no opinion. The resulting metric would indicate how
many respondents answered in particular ways. Mr. McGiffin explained that it may not be known
whether respondents understand the term cultural competency; however, when interviews are
conducted, more detailed information would be obtained.
Ms. Smith questioned the intent of the latter portion of Question #3, which addressed why and how
the City promotes diversity. Responding, Mr. McGiffin indicated that this type of question would
not necessarily be included in the online survey because it would require a narrative, although it may
be incorporated if an online narrative response is possible. He stated that he hoped to receive
unexpected responses, noting that the more that could be learned, the better members could
understand what is going on and find ways to address issues.
In response to Ms. Smith as to whether this portion of Question #3 would be included in the online
survey, Mr. McGiffin stated that it would not be phrased in the same way; however, he might still
be looking for some input, although he was unsure how to do this through the online survey. He
noted that members could approve the document for purposes of the interviews and request him to
come back with a draft of the online survey.
Ms. Smith felt that this would be helpful, expressing her opinion that the questions provided an
opportunity for follow-up during a face-to-face interview; however, she felt that there were
uncertainties for those completing an online survey. Mr. McGiffin stated that Ms. Smith would
receive a draft.
Responding to Mrs. Sadusky, Mr. McGiffin stated that a written survey would not be distributed to
all employees since he believed there would be a minimal return. The questionnaire would be used
as a basis for the interviews. He was unsure how many questions would be included in the online
survey.
Mrs. Sadusky stated that she was unsure of the exact definition of cultural competency and suggested
that a definition be included for the purposes of the interview.
Mr. McGiffin stated that it may be useful to know if interviewees do not know what cultural
competency is. He stated that interviewees would not be given the questions in writing but would
be asked them verbally.
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Ms. Smith noted that people may have different thoughts about what diversity is in terms of race,
sexual preference, or religion. She questioned if the goal was to know if people felt comfortable
in the workplace. Responding, Mr. McGiffin stated that this was among the things that he thought
would be learned; however, a deeper understanding was being sought of how the City approaches
issues of diversity, not only in terms of action but attitude, and how important issues of diversity are
to the decision makers and employees.
Ms. Smith stated that, if possible, she would like to sit in on some of the interviews. She agreed with
the approach of asking questions verbally versus in writing to obtain a spontaneous response.
In regard to the number of people who would be conducting interviews, Mr. McGiffin explained that
he did not want to conduct interviews by himself because he did not trust his own perceptions
completely since his expectations may affect what he hears. Another interviewer would allow for
two (2) perspectives, which would increase confidence in the accuracy of recorded results.
Mr. McGiffin felt that three (3) interviewers would begin to sound like an inquisition and may not
encourage open conversation.
Ms. Smith concurred, stating that if one (1) of the interviewers were unable to attend, she would like
to be a part of the process to observe, if not as someone asking questions.
Mr. McGiffin stated that he could come up with a schedule for interviews, try to attend all of them
himself, and allow Commissioners to sign up to attend as well. To the extent possible, interviews
would be held during the workday, but he believed that some would be held after the workday.
Mr. McGiffin indicated that he would ask the Clerk’s Office staff to publish the schedule and
Commissioners could then let him know when they are available.
Mr. Henderson moved to accept the survey as written for the City staff, with a new draft to
be provided for the online survey. The motion was seconded by Mr. McGiffin and
unanimously carried.
Community Engagement Committee (Roach)
Mr. Roach stated that a community outreach event had been held in downtown Dover by the City
Police Department and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
on October 8, 2015. Turnout was good and the event was reported in the newspapers.
Mr. Roach indicated that he had been in communication with a couple of police officers regarding
an incident that had occurred with a young man with whom Mr. Roach was acquainted. Mr. Roach
also advised members that there had been another incident at Delaware State University (DSU)
where a young man who was intoxicated hit his vehicle’s gas pedal, rather than the brakes. His car
was in reverse and hit seven (7) people, wedging one (1) young lady between the door and a tree.
This occurred on Saturday, October 24, 2015, and all on-campus events were canceled because of
this. Mr. Roach planned to go to DSU to see what would be happening in this regard.
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Mr. Roach stated that construction of the new Boys and Girls Club was going well. He would be
touring the building soon and would discuss the transition to the new facility and transportation. He
indicated that there had been discussion about whether a non-profit group would be willing to take
over the existing Boys and Girls Club building so that it would not have to be shut down.
Education Committee (Henderson)
Mr. Henderson advised members that the State Human Relations Commission (SHRC) was planning
a series of films to be shown State-wide on various topics of interest to residents of Delaware. As
part of this initiative, a film entitled “Cracking the Codes,” would be shown on December 8, 2015
from 5:00 pm to 8:00 p.m. at the Dover Public Library. Mr. Henderson stated that members of the
DHRC were invited to attend.
Ms. Denise Devine, Assistant City Clerk, advised members that library staff were working with the
State Human Relations Commission (SHRC) on this project.
Ms. Smith questioned if there was a place for the DHRC to be a part of this panel or process. She
felt that the DHRC should be represented and endorse this program as part of its education goals and
that it would be a good chance for the DHRC to partner, serve on the panel, promote, or sponsor the
event. Ms. Smith indicated that she had been in communication with the SHRC about partnering
on projects and this might be an opportunity to forge that relationship, as well as build their
relationship with the community. Responding, Mr. Henderson stated that he would follow up and
let members know if a there was a need for a related meeting before the event.
Ms. Smith moved to approach and have conversation with the SHRC around what role the DHRC
could can play in sponsoring, being a part of, or promoting the event. The motion failed for lack of
a second.
Ms. Smith questioned if the event was being sponsored by the SHRC and hosted by the Dover Public
Library and suggested that Mr. Henderson reach out to either Ms. Romona Fullman, Director of the
Division of Human Relations, or Mr. Calvin Christopher, Chair of the SHRC.
Mrs. Sadusky suggested that members brainstorm to identify those people or organizations in the
community that members would want to ensure receive a personal invitation or letter, such as
schools and principals. Mr. Henderson suggested contacting ministerial associations. Ms. Griffith
mentioned the Delaware Commission for Women. Ms. Smith suggested the Interdenominational
Ministerial Alliance, the Capital School District Superintendent, various fraternity groups, and social
work departments of local colleges as possibilities. Mr. Henderson stated that he would first find
out what the distribution had been as well as the locations of all the events being offered. He
indicated that he would contact the SHRC on October 28, 2015.
Mr. Henderson advised members that he was registered to attend a symposium at Arsht Hall,
2700 Pennsylvania Avenue, Wilmington on October 28, 2015 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Dr. Andrew Sandoval-Strausz would be speaking on American and Hispanic culture and
Mr. Henderson offered to bring information back.
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TED Talk Meeting with Dan Young
Mr. Henderson stated that he had spoken to Dr. Dan Young, curator for TEDx at Wilmington
University, who indicated that he would have information related to holding a TED talk event in
Dover by the end of the week.
Meeting with Capital School District Superintendent Dr. Dan Shelton
Mr. Henderson advised members that he and Ms. Smith had met with Dr. Dan Shelton, the new
Superintendent of the Capital School District. He indicated that Dr. Shelton is a very candid,
approachable man who wants to work with the DHRC and with children from elementary school
through high school to help them achieve positive results as graduates, and future shareholders in
the City. He was also very much interested in students obtaining jobs and staying in the community.
Mr. Henderson stated that Dr. Shelton indicated that 60% of Dover High School students are African
American and 30% Caucasian. He had also advised that the school had a tremendous rate of
students who apply for college. Dr. Shelton had come from a much larger school district in
Wilmington but liked Dover and his focus was to become a part of the community and make the
community a positive one. Mr. Henderson felt that Dr. Shelton was committed to keeping kids
engaged and competitive and that the DHRC should hold further discussions with him, noting that
Dr. Shelton wants to stay engaged with the DHRC and discuss how he and the DHRC can help each
other.
Ms. Smith stated that Dr. Shelton was very enthusiastic and positive and had a lot of good statistical
data. She expressed concern regarding the positive statistics for the number of students applying for
college versus a statement that had been made by the Chief of Police that many young people cannot
be hired because they have a police record by age 13. Ms. Smith indicated that there was a gap
somewhere and questioned how it could be filled. She stated that she had asked Dr. Shelton what
was being done for elementary school students, who tend to do okay, to prepare them for middle
school, where they often get into trouble. His response was that the District works on the students’
mind set and offers a training program in this regard. He indicated that Mr. Malik Muhammad had
been brought on board with the District and was involved in this program.
Ms. Smith had advised Dr. Shelton that there may not currently be a solution; however, something
must be tried. She had indicated that there was a commitment to engage students around their
educational experience, but felt there also needed to be a commitment to engage parents around their
child's educational experience. Dr. Shelton had explained that the Capital School District provides
Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SATs) for free, as well as online training. He had expressed his opinion
that the digital divide was not that large anymore because kids have telephones; however, Ms. Smith
shared with him that her parents were high school drop outs, so they did not know about SATs.
Even though the training exists, it may not mean anything for certain classes or groups of people.
Mr. Henderson suggested that the Community Engagement Committee could let kids and parents
know that SAT preparation is available and free.
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Ms. Griffith advised members that she has children who were attending or had graduated from Dover
High School and she concurred with Dr. Shelton that a lot of information was provided by the
school; however, she felt that parents also need to be involved. Ms. Griffith indicated that Comcast
has a program whereby students who qualify for free lunches can have a low-cost computer, stating
her belief that the cost was approximately $100, and this was advertised on television. Ms. Griffith
felt that the school was doing a good job of communicating; however, she noted that not many
parents attended parents’ night at Dover High School.
Ms. Smith stated that a part of the DHRC’s role is to fill the gap and to assist the community in
decreasing crime, increasing employment, and creating hope for the City. Ms. Smith stated that her
role in the meeting with the Superintendent was to challenge and question him and to bring to life
this piece of hopelessness. She questioned what could be done to reach those students who fall
through the cracks and do not have parental involvement.
Ms. Griffith advised members that she had talked to Secretary Collins at the Department of
Technology about bringing in young people for a week or so on an unpaid basis, perhaps give them
lunch, and have them learn about technology. She felt there should be more community
involvement, noting that she encourages others to mentor young men at the high school who have
no one to look up to and nothing to look forward to. Ms. Griffith indicated that she had grown up
homeless, attending seven (7) or eight (8) different schools, and stated that young people needed
positive people in their lives. She indicated that, in June, she participated in the Code Purple
program, staying overnight at a homeless shelter, and found there were homeless young people there
who were not in school.
Ms. Smith stated that members could continue to brainstorm ideas to close the gap between parental
involvement and disengagement, which she felt was the key.
Mrs. Sadusky asked if members knew what was happening with the former Dover High School gym
and whether it would be torn down. Responding, Mr. Roach stated his belief that everything would
be torn down. He indicated that the athletic fields were still intact. Mr. Roach stated his belief that
these fields were all that would be kept by the District and offered to look into it.
Ms. Devine stated her belief that during the Parks, Recreation, and Community Enhancement
Committee meeting of October 12, 2015, Councilman Lewis had asked about this and City staff was
going to contact the District to find out specifically who was using the fields and the tracks. She
indicate her belief that all of the buildings had been torn down at this point. Ms. Devine stated that
she thought that continued use of the buildings on the old site was not permitted as part of the
arrangements for building the new Dover High School.
Mrs. Sadusky felt it was too bad that they had to tear down a perfectly good gym that could have
been used by youth in the community. Mr. Roach stated his belief that this was needed to finance
the new Dover High School and that the Capital School District would find a way to make some
money from the former property.
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Communications Committee
Ms. Smith reminded members that former Commissioner Stewart had served on the
Communications Committee and that the Committee had nothing to report at this time.
Election of Committee Chairs
Government Policy, Programs, and Practices Committee
Ms. Devine advised members that Mr. McGiffin had indicated that he was interested in serving as
Chair of the Government Policy, Programs, and Practices (GPPP) Committee unless someone else
was interested.
Ms. Smith asked if anyone else would like to serve as Chair of the GPPP Committee, and no
members responded.
Ms. Smith moved to nominate Mr. McGiffin to serve as Chair of the Government Policy,
Programs, and Practices (GPPP) Committee. The motion was seconded by Ms. Griffith and
unanimously carried.
Communications Committee
Ms. Smith advised members that the Communications Committee was responsible for putting
together a strategic plan on how to communicate the things that the DHRC was doing and requested
a volunteer to serve as chair.
Mr. Roach indicated that no members were currently serving on this committee and Ms. Griffith
volunteered to serve as Chair.
Mrs. Sadusky moved to nominate Ms. Griffith to serve as Chair of the Communications
Committee, seconded by Mr. Roach and unanimously carried.
Ms. Devine advised members that the DHRC now had a webpage on the City of Dover website that
included the DHRC 2015-2018 Strategic Plan. She offered to make sure that Ms. Griffith received
the Strategic Plan, noting that it contained information about the Communications Committee.
Ms. Smith stated the need to make sure that people know that Ms. Griffith and Ms. Bogle have been
appointed to the Commission and that this be conveyed to the newspaper, along with photos, and that
photos and short bios be provided to the City Clerk’s Office. She noted that the bio should answer
the question of why members were serving on the DHRC.
Ms. Smith asked if any other members would like to serve with Commissioner Griffith. She noted
that members would support Ms. Griffith if she needed help.
Ms. Devine stated that any correspondence should be sent through the City Clerk’s Office, who
could ensure that all members receive it. She explained that this would avoid a serial meeting or
violations of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
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Old Business
City of Dover Police Department Ride Along Program and Citizen’s Police Academy
Mrs. Sadusky stated that she and another individual had scheduled an evening to participate in the
Police Department Ride Along Program on a Saturday night but were sent home because there was
a fight, and they were told that it was not a good time to participate. She had not called to reschedule
but planned to do so.
Mrs. Sadusky stated that she had asked about the Citizen’s Police Academy and Sergeant Glenn
Virdin indicated that the Academy had not been set up at this time.
Mrs. Sadusky stated that she was serving on the Education Committee.
Mr. Roach stated that Ms. Smith and Mr. Henderson were serving on the Education Committee,
Mr. McGiffin on the GPPP Committee, and himself and Ms. Hicks on the Community Engagement
Committee. Ms. Devine advised members that correspondence was received earlier in the day
indicating that Ms. Hicks had resigned from the DHRC.
Update - Four-Day Basic Mediation Training Conducted by the University of Delaware Institute for
Public Administration - School of Public Policy and Administration
Ms. Smith advised members that she attended the four (4) day mediation training and received a
certificate. She indicated that she would provide an informational session to share what she had
learned and felt that this training would be valuable for other members who wish to experience it.
She felt that this was a skill set that is learned by doing. Ms. Smith stated her belief that the training
would be offered again in the Spring.
Responding to Mr. Henderson, Ms. Smith stated that she felt the training was worthwhile. She
indicated that the approach was very deliberate and intentional, and that the mediation process
involves active listening and helping people to come up with their own conclusions, which is
different from her experience as a results-oriented coach. Ms. Smith explained that in mediation
training, the process belongs to the parties involved, who may or not agree, and the mediator just
listens and is removed from results. She noted that the investment that the City made in her would
not be in vain and that she would be volunteering with the Delaware Criminal Justice Council and
sit in on three (3) sessions before she can actually do a mediation.
DHRC Vacancies
Ms. Smith reminded members that there were two (2) vacancies on the Commission. She welcomed
Ms. Griffith and thanked her for joining the DHRC, noting that her appointment was confirmed by
Council on October 26, 2015. Ms. Smith stated that Ms. Griffith had filled the First District seat
vacated by Mr. Cecil Wilson. She advised members that Ms. Diane Bogle would be taking the seat
vacated by Mr. Eugene Ruane in the Second District.
At Ms. Smith’s request, Ms. Griffith introduced herself and advised members that she came to Dover
as a result of her military service and was originally from Charlotte. She indicated that she had been
with the State of Delaware for over 16 years and for approximately four-and-one-half years had been
employed as a Senior Legislative Analyst at Legislative Hall. Prior to that, she worked at the
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Delaware Department of Transportation as a Legislative Projects Manager. Ms. Griffith stated that
she was serving on the Delaware Commission for Women, the Delaware Professional Regulation
Board, and the Wesley College Alumni Board of Directors. She stated that she had been married
for 22 years and has two (2) children.
Ms. Smith reminded members that there were vacancies in the Third and Fourth Districts for seats
vacated by Ms. Courtney Stewart and Ms. Jane Hicks, respectively. She stated that they could make
recommendations for the appointment of new members; however, appointments would ultimately
be up to Council. Ms. Smith advised members that Mr. Fred Neil and Mr. Scott Cole were the
Council representatives for the Third District and Mr. David Anderson and Mr. Roy Sudler
represented the Fourth Council District. She suggested that members appeal to them if they had any
recommendations.
Follow Up - Meet and Greet with Council President Timothy Slavin
Ms. Smith questioned members regarding their perceptions and opinions regarding the meet and
greet session with Council President Tim Slavin during the DHRC meeting of September 29, 2015.
Mr. Henderson stated that Mr. Slavin had charged the DHRC with helping Council to have better
eyes and ears. He had offered a series of challenges in terms of things going on in the City and how
the Commission could better help Council by finding out information and funneling it to back to
them. Mr. Henderson felt that Mr. Slavin would listen and also follow through.
Mr. Roach expressed his opinion that his taking the time to come and speak to the DHRC reflected
that Mr. Slavin was invested in what the Commission is charged to do. Mr. Roach, who represents
the Fourth District, indicated that he also tries to communicate with Mr. Sudler and Mr. Anderson,
the Fourth District Council Representatives.
Ms. Smith reminded members that Mr. Slavin had expressed his hope that young people carrying
guns would not be the new normal and that the City and Commission would do what it takes to
ensure that future generations would not believe this was the norm. He had stated that the charge
to the DHRC would be to offer hope, compassion, understanding, and engagement.
Mrs. Sadusky advised members that she volunteers in the Alternatives to Violence Program in the
prisons and questioned if this program could be offered to teens in the community, noting that those
men who go through the program find it very helpful. She offered to find out if the program could
be brought to the middle school or high school in the summer. Mrs. Sadusky stated her belief that
it was a six (6) weekend program.
Ms. Smith felt that this was a great idea and suggested that Mrs. Sadusky also coordinate a time and
date for someone to come in and explain the program to the DHRC so they can make a better
decision.
Ms. Smith expressed her opinion that the DHRC needed to know where they would make an impact
and what they would be known for. She noted that several projects had been discussed, such as the
Alternatives to Violence Program, the diversity study, and the TED talk. Ms. Smith questioned what
the DHRC would be known for, noting that they could support other organizations, but she felt it
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important to create a brand, since this is the way that “buzz” is created, which creates a following.
She questioned what one (1) thing they would focus on, work hard on, and be known for. For
example, she stated that if the focus would be on supporting the police and dealing with related
issues, there should be a strategic plan to do this.
New Business
Reach One, Teach One Challenge (Roach)
Mr. Roach stated that he would like to work on issuing a personal challenge to City of Dover
employees to “Reach one, Teach One.” He explained that there are mentoring programs in the
Capital School District and City of Dover and suggested that everyone take the time to reach out to
one (1) child. He mentioned the need to reach kids in the 13-to-18-year-old age group. Mr. Roach
suggested that employees would be challenged to go to one (1) of the schools and volunteer, perhaps
by taking 30 minutes at lunch to show a child that the employee cares about him or her. He stated
the possibility of also reaching out to other organizations so that there would be a pool of mentors
for any child in the Capital School District who needs a mentor.
Ms. Devine stated that she mentors at South Dover Elementary School, as does Ms. Traci McDowell,
City Clerk, and that the City Manager had previously put out an invitation for employees to mentor
and would probably be willing to do this again. She indicated that there is a need for mentors,
especially for students above the elementary school level, and there is currently a waiting list with
over 80 children at William Henry Middle School; therefore, the need was great.
Mr. Roach stated that, in terms of accountability, it would be desired for everyone to do this, noting
that children need someone to look up to since their role models are those who are selling drugs and
shooting guns.
Mr. Henderson stated that he had been involved in the Read-Aloud Program and that there are many
children who are not exposed to books. He advised members that this is an opportunity to touch
lives, noting that the children involved want to learn, read, and be more educated. Mr. Henderson
indicated that the program is sponsored by the Corporate Kids Learning Center near the Blue Hen
Mall, and the headquarters is located at Treadway Towers. He explained that volunteers must be
certified, and this certification is retained once achieved. He stated that preschoolers aged three (3),
four (4), and five (5) are in the program.
Mr. Roach stated that it would not matter in which program mentors serve; however, he noted that
the DHRC was trying to build a relationship with the Capital School District and felt that the
District’s mentoring program would be a good bridge for this relationship.
Ms. Smith questioned what this effort would look like in terms of engaging people. Responding,
Mr. Roach stated that it could be as simple as drafting an email to City Council. Council could then
make an announcement about the challenge and the DHRC could ask to have a draft read at a
Council meeting and dispersed to the different departments. Mr. Roach suggested that volunteers
could be asked to send pictures of their mentees, noting that a waiver may be needed. He stated that
the results would be tangible and measurable and Dr. Dan Shelton, Superintendent, Capital School
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District, could track the participants from the Reach One, Teach One Challenge. The challenge
would continue to be pushed to new employees and those who did not have the time to participate
the first time around.
Ms. Smith questioned what the legal implications were in terms of parental permission or other
issues with respect to working with underage kids. Responding, Mr. Roach stated that the Capital
School District has a standard volunteer packet and manages the liability issues.
Ms. Devine advised members that a company called “Connecting Generations” receives applications
for the Capital School District and does background checks. Four (4) hours of free training are
provided at various locations after the background check is passed, and this training is available
online. Ms. Devine stated that this organization could track how many people from the City of
Dover sign up, noting that if a large enough group of employees signs up, Connecting Generations
may come to the City and conduct the training. She noted that volunteers can indicate the
organization that they are from, as well as the grade level and school where they would like to
mentor. Ms. Devine advised members that if the DHRC was interested in the mentoring project,
they would made a recommendation to Council, which would be included in the DHRC meeting
minutes. Council would consider the recommendation and, if they approve it, members could move
forward, possibly working with the City Manager to get word out about the challenge.
Mr. Roach moved to recommend that Council consider having a “Reach One, Teach One
Challenge” for the City of Dover, seconded by Mr. Henderson and unanimously carried.
City Police and National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Community
Outreach Event of October 8, 2015
Ms. Smith stated that she had attended the Community Outreach event, which she indicated was
incredible, noting that there was music, basketball, football, and dancing and pizza, soda, and
chicken wings were served. She applauded the organizers, noting that the Police Department did an
amazing job, taking money out of their budget for the event and setting up tables. The NAACP was
responsible for bringing in people. Ms. Smith stated that the event was like a huge block party. She
mentioned that Councilmen Anderson and Sudler had attended.
Ms. Smith noted that there was a member of the public present who wished to comment.
Mr. Roach moved to allow Ms. Joyce Wilson to comment, seconded by Mr. Henderson and
unanimously carried.
Ms. Joyce Wilson, 500 Persimmon Tree Lane, stated that she came to the DHRC meeting to listen
and see how things were going, noting that she found it interesting and was sure she would come
back. She thanked members for allowing her to sit in. Ms. Wilson indicated that she works at the
Early College High School and expressed her belief that discipline was needed for ninth and tenth
graders and she was interested in seeing how some of the DHRC programs go, especially with regard
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to the police. Ms. Wilson advised members that she would like to see something like a “Scared
Straight” program. She stated that the Early College High School was a good program that allows
students to graduate from high school with an Associate’s Degree.
Mr. Roach moved for adjournment, seconded by Mr. Henderson and unanimously carried.
Meeting adjourned at 7:04 p.m.
S. Renee Smith
Chairwoman
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