[img_assist|nid=495|title=CAN Center|desc=|link=node|align=center|width=251|height=165]
Since 1971, the 49/63 Neighborhood Coalition has represented the area of 49th to 63rd, The Paseo to Oak. Its purpose is to bridge Troost Avenue, stabilize the community, and protect and maintain a good quality of life for residents in the area. The Community Action Network (CAN) Center was established in the early 90's to supplement this effort and to address negative issues attacking the community. Two Metro Patrol Officers and a city Codes Officer were assigned to be part of the CAN Center. COMBAT funded a person to help combat the proliferation of drug usage and sales.
For the past few years, the space housing 49/63 was outside the boundaries of the 49/63 Neighborhood. Early in 2010, in keeping with the Rockhurst University goal to support the neighborhood stabilization efforts, the University offered help by providing office space. The house at 5418 Lydia was built in 1919, and had been sitting empty for the past few years. Rockhurst installed new plumbing and electrical systems; painted the inside and out; added new storm windows, security systems and lighting; and is in the process of removing and installing fencing in the back yard. CAN volunteers have a landscape plan in the hopper as soon as the weather breaks.
The area selected for the office was known for constant calls to the police, was host to a number of unsupervised youth, and had a large number of burglaries. Landlords along the block were having difficulty keeping good renters, and the chaos was spreading to other nearby blocks. Thanks to Rockhurst and the 49/63 Coalition and CAN Center, the area is already transitioning and the disruptiveness, for which the area was known, has already decreased. Area property owners are following suit and improving their property. Congratulations to Rockhurst University, 49/63 Neighborhood Coalition and the 49/63 CAN Center for the investment made and for helping Southtown sparkle!