Since its founding in 2000, the Coronado Human Relations Commission's efforts have been both school-focused and community-wide in terms of addressing communication issues that challenge relationships between and among our youth and our citizens.  The Mayor of Coronado, Tom Smisek, a member of the CHRC, offers his perspective: "The Coronado Human Relations Commission is the only forum in our city where people from churches, schools, the City [government, police and recreation departments], the Navy, parents and kids come together to discuss matters that influence the well-being of adults and youth.  Issues that people are reluctant to discuss in other circumstances are often brought to the table."

Towards fulfilling its mission, the CHRC:

• Reports to the Mayor and the City Council on the state of human relations between and among students and adults in Coronado and advises on appropriate remedies.

• COLLABORATES WITH COMMUNITY GROUPS to create comprehensive educational programs addressing interracial, inter-religious and intercultural understanding.

• CONDUCTS TOLERANCE TRAINING via:

• The Ambassador Club

• the Silver Strand Elementary School Peace Patrol

• The Village Elementary School Mediation Team

• Coronado School of the Arts Repertory Company

• Brownie Troop 5044

• Silver Strand Show Stoppers

• CORONADO FAMILY UNIVERSITY

  • "Developing Capable Young People"

  • "Parent to Parent"

• conducts it signature week-long event, 'TAKE MY HAND CORONADO', every spring consisting of several high profile activities:

• Each day, on every school campus, a different theme (with coordinating activities that teach) such as forgiveness, empathy, peaceful communication, tolerance, reaching out and the like.

• Its annual poster contest which typically attracts hundreds of entrants, the ten winners of which are officially honored at a City Council meeting.

• The student mediation teams from the four participating campuses are showcased.

• Students representing every school replant flowers in the "Take  My Hand Garden" on the median strip of Orange Avenue - Coronado's main street.

• Eight citizens of Coronado who value, model, and promote peaceful communication and the peaceful resolution of conflict are chosen to receive the "Peacemaker Award".  The winners represent eight categories - Business, Community Leader, Education, Faith, Health, Human Services, Military, Parent, and Youth and are honored at the closing evening event.

[PDF File]