An innovative program at Westmoreland Village in Eugene may have positive impacts for families and property managers. Today (Friday) marks the launch of "Uncle Bear."
The program is the brainchild of Amy Price, the resident manager of Westmoreland Village. She was looking for a way to improve community at the 450-unit complex near 16th and Arthur.
Kids can earn points for helping out around the apartments. They can redeem them for books and toys at the on-site Uncle Bear store. Darren Stone is with the Jennings Group, which manages the property. He says there are benefits for the owners as well:
Stone: “When tenants stay and they don’t move as frequently, you make more money. When kids have something to do and their positive behavior is supported, there’s less stuff to fix.”
Stone hopes the program will help the entire community. Teenagers can earn volunteer hours staffing the store and adults can donate merchandise and give out points for good deeds. If the program succeeds, the group would love to see the concept spread to other housing complexes.