Assets

Outsiders' Views

Outsiders often stated that human resources are the primary assets of Fuquay-Varina. The "small town feel" is seen as comforting, and "people generally care for each other." Outsiders consistently referred to the local churches as being very supportive and willing to assist needy families and those in transition, such as the Latino community. Furthermore, outsiders appreciate the support of local town officials, as well as the police and fire departments, all of whom "rally toward improvements." The Southern Regional Center (SRC), a regional office of Wake County Human Services, is viewed as an asset, because of the broad range of services it provides. (See Appendix J for an extensive description of these services).

Within the community at large, great strides have been made in collective action and community activism. In the 1990s, a move began toward revitalization of the traditionally African- American area of Fuquay-Varina, termed by residents as "the south side." There had been extensive drug dealing in and around some dilapidated, abandoned homes in the area. The community joined forces, formed the Community Development Corporation and initiated the Citizens Against Drugs organization. As a result, the dilapidated houses were destroyed, and new affordable housing is being constructed. Furthermore, a formerly consolidated African-American elementary school has been renovated to become the Early Learning Center, a place for preschool children to learn and develop. This center was the site of the forum.

The assets within the Latino community are noted to "lie within the people...many have chosen to live here and want to make it their home. [For some], their home is still Mexico, but they are starting to become more established and stable, and this might lead them to taking more ownership." In an effort to join together, a group of Latinos have been meeting at St. Bernadette Catholic Church to discuss the possibility of developing a Latino center, similar to the ones located in Durham and Carrboro that would serve as a resource to the Latino community and promote its concerns and general welfare.

Insiders' Views

Insiders consistently stated that Fuquay-Varina is a peaceful, tranquil area. They expressed that the shopping areas are major assets, mentioning Wal-Mart specifically. Some believe that the commercial growth and development occurring in Fuquay-Varina is another asset, because it provides many opportunities for employment and community life. They also reported that the police are cooperative within the community and tough on crime, which is something that they appreciate. Insiders repeatedly emphasized that community outreach by the churches, specifically the Catholic and Methodist churches, is a strong asset. They described this outreach as the provision of clothing, transportation, and opportunities to learn English. Furthermore, the churches were described as the starting point for indigenous Latino leadership to develop. While insiders identified church-based leadership as an asset, they also noted that if a more community-wide leadership existed among the Latinos of Fuquay-Varina, then all Latinos could organize for collective action. Another asset valued by insiders is the variety of clinics available: the SRC, as well as clinics in Lillington and Newton Grove provide care regardless of legal status.

Insiders also mentioned various assets found among the members of the Latino community. One such asset was described as a willingness to rally together during crises. The team consistently heard stories of the community raising money to return the deceased back to their country of origin for burial. Insiders also described the assistance they received from other community members in terms of housing, employment opportunities, and general advice on how to adapt to life in Fuquay-Varina. This willingness to help others in need was often mentioned as an additional asset.

Comparison

Outsiders and insiders alike recognize the asset of human resources as a major strength in Fuquay-Varina. The "small town feel" is desirable to both sides, because it provides them with a sense of peace. Various services provided in the community, both public and private, are widely appreciated and respected.

The revitalization project created momentum to address issues affecting a traditionally underserved population within Fuquay-Varina. If this momentum were to spread to other underserved populations, such as the Latino community, then change would be more likely. In order to capitalize on the identified human assets, both outsiders and insiders must reach out to each other and work together. The readiness for action exhibited by both insiders and outsiders is a major strength. For the most part, outsiders desire for Latinos to contribute to the community life; likewise, insiders desire to acclimate and gain more understanding of the systems of Fuquay-Varina and the United States in general.

Secondary Data

Public Services