“Greetings to participants in the Southeast Dayton Weed and Seed program. I wish to express the Dayton Police Department's continued commitment to the Weed and Seed program. Since its inception six years ago, the Weed and Seed program has resulted in positive changes in the quality of life for those residing in the targeted neighborhoods. The staff of the First and Second Districts will continue their efforts to bring about even greater improvements throughout the upcoming year. I look forward to working closely with you in this endeavor and hope to meet all of you in the months ahead.”

“Weed and Seed has been a great asset to the four neighborhoods surrounding St. Paul United Methodist Church. The extra policing and housing inspections have improved the life of our residents, and the look and safety of our neighborhoods. The focus on the children and youth through the Safe Havens has been a benefit as young leaders are developing with a pride in their own accomplishments, as well as their heritage. We are looking forward to continuing our diversity programs which foster a sense of peace and respect for others. Weed and Seed has been a good partner for St. Paul UMC as we continue our work of healing and reconciliation to which we are called.”

“Southeast Weed and Seed provides KIND with access to other “Best Practices” and support services in the area. Through the teamwork that exists among the leadership and members, Weed and Seed eliminates duplication of services among the members within our target area. As a unified team, Weed and Seed is best positioned to win back the neighborhood through policing efforts and seeding programs like KIND that offer hope and a future to the next generation of Dayton. Weed and Seed is OK but Norma is awesome. I do mean that. Norma, Joanne (Hale, Director of Sunrise Center), and Maggie/Mark Barlow make the real difference. Each of you have taught us quite a bit and supported us all along the way. Without your support over the last year, it would have been difficult to battle back.”

“Based on my firsthand observations, I can state without reservation that Southeast Dayton Weed and Seed is wonderful! The positive impact on the lives of everyone touched by the program has been enormous. The 2.2 square miles served includes some of the most distressed neighborhoods in our community, and in this area Southeast Dayton Weed and Seed has skillfully and fearlessly addressed drug trafficking and addiction, prostitution, violence, teen pregnancy, and numerous other critical issues. The benefit to our community is equal to or greater than that of organizations with vastly larger budgets and greater resources. Southeast Dayton Weed and Seed is a saving grace in the lives of those most in need.”

“In all my years of working in and with organizational leaders whose sole purpose in life is to be the difference that will make a difference in others lives, few compare to the extraordinary work of Norma Ryan and SE Dayton’s Weed & Seed. The depth and breadth of Norma’s capacity for caring along with her commitment to engage her community as she challenges them to be responsible, accountable and concerned about each other is exceptional. Most people realize it will take significant commitment and support to make Dayton a safe place for all of its citizens but especially children and seniors and SE Dayton’s Weed & Seed is committed to exactly that cause. I salute the work of Norma Ryan and the SE Dayton Weed & Seed and as she continues to lead the challenge to create the type of future everyone feels welcomed and safe, I invite as many as will join her in the effort of this much needed organization.”

“Norma Ryan, manager of the Dayton Southeast Weed and Seed, asked me to tell you a little about our experience with her children that participate in our After School Club. Each week we provide opportunity for the children to learn about art in the galleries and then participate in a hands-on project in the studios. The kids are always excited to be here and they whole-heartedly take part in what our instructor has chosen to teach that day. I have seen a number of children who continue to come back week after week. These children have truly advanced in both their art skill and understanding as well as their etiquette in the museum and studio. I have noticed their self confidence and focus on the project rise as well. I cannot tell you in words what this program means to these children. I feel that by opening up the museum to them each week, we are making a great impact on their lives. Please do not hesitate to contact me should you have any questions.”

“The Dayton Southeast Weed and Seed has touched the lives of all ages of predominately unskilled-urban Appalachian families with small pockets of African American, Hispanic, and Muslim. These families are plagued with poverty, crime, drug trafficking and unemployment. Weed and Seed under the direction of Norma Ryan, has helped bring about positive changes to these serious problems facing inner city neighborhoods. As a long time educator in the city of Dayton, the option of expanding educational opportunities for our young people by enriching their outlook and feel for the arts is most gratifying. Participating in the Dayton Art Institute Afterschool Club, visiting famous historical sites of Dayton, and attending Muse Machine Performances at the Schuster Performing Arts Center, the Southeast Weed and Seed has given many a young person a glimpse of life that they would most likely not have experienced otherwise.”