The construction on Jefferson Avenue is a visible part of a push to rebuild a neighborhood that has struggled with crime and poverty. It's a step toward improving the area's appearance and the work has provided jobs for some people who live in the neighborhood. | A group of community leaders and organizations, however, sees an opportunity to do more. County Legislator Willie Joe Lightfoot says much of the neighborhood's crime is committed by high school dropouts. Helping the dropouts get their high school equivalency diplomas could help reduce crime, he says, while also improving residents' job prospects. | Lightfoot's part of the Jefferson Avenue Revive Education Initiative, a collaborative group that also involves the Rochester Educational Opportunity Center and Monroe Community College. | The collaboration will offer mentoring to participants to help them navigate the G.E.D. process. It'll also connect participants with an REOC program that assesses their readiness for the exam and then offers free preparation classes if needed. | Group leaders say they hope successful participants will enroll in college or a vocational program. | Anyone interested in the program can call 232-2730 Ext. 235.