Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: WEDNESDAY, June 7, 1995 TAG: 9506070019
SECTION: EXTRA PAGE: 1 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: STACY JONES STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
Keith Farmer runs the Roanoke chapter.
Most of its gatherings offer a mix of activities. There are bands, pool tables, dancing, chess, swimming, basketball, volleyball and a host of other diversions. The most recent event was promoted as a ``Beach Blast'' and included a limbo and human ring-toss contest.
With his slight frame, impeccable manners and unbridled benevolence, Farmer is the picture of choirboy-perfect. He also is the picture of success.
Farmer began the Roanoke chapter of Straight Street last August by broadcasting public service announcements on local Christian radio stations. The PSAs asked anyone interested in serving youth to meet at Parker's Seafood restaurant. Forty-two people showed up.
The group's first event was held at Farmer's church, Grace Baptist Temple, and attracted 141 kids.
Never allowed to consider city funding because of Straight Street's religious orientation, Farmer, a licensed nursing home administrator with a master's degree, learned the art of networking and negotiation. He has solidified working relationships with the Family YMCA, which opens its facilities at the Jefferson Center for Straight Street events. Star City Roller Skating Center in Roanoke also has made arrangements with Farmer that permit the kids to visit at reduced rates. Furthermore, businesses provide beverages and snacks for the events.
``You can get a good youth program started without city funding,'' said Farmer, whose monthly activities attract about 20 volunteers.
After his non-profit status becomes official, Farmer hopes to hold weekend events every Friday and Saturday night during the school year. He envisions no support problems and claims to have verbal commitments from a number of sources.
Farmer summed up his approach to the young in one sentence: ``Children go where there is excitement, but they will stay where there is love.''
by CNB