Last week was my third week at Martha O'Bryan Center, and I love it more and more each day! Monday-Thursday, I worked in the classroom with my kids, and then, on Friday, I worked in the food bank. I absolutely love being with the kids, and I feel so blessed that I get to be a part of their lives. This past week, the kids started to listen to me more, and I feel like they have begun to respect me more. This is experience is great, not only because I've gotten to meet so many wonderful people and kids, but also because I'm beginning to discover if I have what it takes to become a teacher. Working in the food bank Friday really opened my eyes to how big of an impoverished area I am working in. There were many, many families that had to come get food, and a lot of the families consisted of 10 or 11 people. It also shocked me how ungrateful some of these people were of the services that Martha O'Bryan provides them. Many complained about minor things, instead of realizing how great it is that Martha O'Bryan Center is there to help them.
This week, one of the women who works in the classroom where I work left because she was moving to Georgia. It was really hard to say goodbye to her, and I was amazed to see how close I have become to the people that I work with. The kids got really upset when they heard that she wasn't going to come back, and they kept asking me if I was going to leave too. I told them that I wouldn't be there this week because I was going on vacation but that I would be back next week. One boy, Tyreese, got really upset and held onto me when he heard. Today was their first day at school without seeing me. I'm really worried that the kids will feel like I've abandoned them, and I keep thinking about them while on vacation. I pray that they stay safe and know that I will be back soon.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Week 3
Today, I was supposed to start my third week at Bethlehem Centers of Nashville, but I am taking this week off to go to Hilton Head with my family and several of my friends. I was astonished with how much I missed my Bethlehem Center family when I didn't go to work this morning! I miss the children, especially, and can't wait to return next Monday.
Last week was amazing - I grew much closer to the others working at Bethlehem Center and was blessed when several of them shared their life stories with me. They are caring enough to want to pass on these stories because they told me that they don't want me to make their same mistakes.
I worked all week in the thrift store after I worked in the GED program (before going to the Summer Discovery program) and three other girls who are actually campers at the Summer Jam program (for the older kids) have started coming in to work with me every day. Mrs. Heather had the four of us trying on the clothes and "modeling" them so they could advertise better to the teen community. It was so much fun! I also set up and have been posting items on The Shopping Bag's ebay account, and even set up a Groupon account for the store. The Shopping Bag is now officially online, and it is a very exciting process for the women who work in the store.
Finally, my day has continued to end at the children's Summer Discovery program, and I find myself leaving later and later each day. We have been playing more organized games, such as Kickball and Capture the Flag, and every time I become the target, which is so much fun when the kids are having a good time. Friday was "circus" day for the toddlers, so my kids got to participate in their circus. One of the other councilors, David, dressed as a clown and gave everyone face-paint and temporary tattoos - the kids had a blast! And of course, they were very hyper all day because of all the sugar they ate. It made for an awesome end of the week! When I had to say good-bye on Friday, it was sad because I knew that I wouldn't be there this week, but it's okay because I will be coming back.
Last week was amazing - I grew much closer to the others working at Bethlehem Center and was blessed when several of them shared their life stories with me. They are caring enough to want to pass on these stories because they told me that they don't want me to make their same mistakes.
I worked all week in the thrift store after I worked in the GED program (before going to the Summer Discovery program) and three other girls who are actually campers at the Summer Jam program (for the older kids) have started coming in to work with me every day. Mrs. Heather had the four of us trying on the clothes and "modeling" them so they could advertise better to the teen community. It was so much fun! I also set up and have been posting items on The Shopping Bag's ebay account, and even set up a Groupon account for the store. The Shopping Bag is now officially online, and it is a very exciting process for the women who work in the store.
Finally, my day has continued to end at the children's Summer Discovery program, and I find myself leaving later and later each day. We have been playing more organized games, such as Kickball and Capture the Flag, and every time I become the target, which is so much fun when the kids are having a good time. Friday was "circus" day for the toddlers, so my kids got to participate in their circus. One of the other councilors, David, dressed as a clown and gave everyone face-paint and temporary tattoos - the kids had a blast! And of course, they were very hyper all day because of all the sugar they ate. It made for an awesome end of the week! When I had to say good-bye on Friday, it was sad because I knew that I wouldn't be there this week, but it's okay because I will be coming back.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Week 3
Third week at PTM and loving it! What an awesome and easy-going week it's been. This week for my curriculum, I put together a "Business Project" lesson plan. I created a worksheet called "Creating My Own Business" in which the kids paired up and created their own fake business. They came up with a name, contact information, working hours, a slogan, and products and prices. I loved seeing the excitement that the students had in this project. I was somewhat surprised since I was apprehensive at first as to how interested the children would be, but their creativity thrived. We had several different companies including a pet shop, several car shops, clothing stores, restaurants, and even a Hollywood themed mall. We also went into the computer lab and created logos for the companies. The children were so excited to pick out pictures from google images and come up with their own design. Today we presented their creations and picked four winner (two boys and two girls) to film a commercial for their "business" next week. Unfortunately I won't be there since I'll be on vacation, but I can't wait to see their finished projects when I return!
This week Chan delegated a few more responsibilities to me concerning the non-profit organization. On Monday I wrote the blog for the PTM website and summarized the field trip we took to Thistle Famrs this past Friday. I also began work on a grant that I'm writing for PTM. I'm doing a grant for Lifeway Christian Store and continue to pray that it will come through. To complete the grant application I have been learning quite a bit about the funding of a non-profit organization and the sort of "behind the scenes" type of stuff. I'm not very good with the financial aspects, but I'm trying.
That pretty much sums up the week (I'm trying to shorten these blogs). All in all, another fantastic week with PTM! I love all of the kids so so so much! Everyday our friendships continue to grow and I love them more and more. I'm truly going to miss them while I'm on vacation and although it'll be relaxing, I can't wait to see them when I get back!
This week Chan delegated a few more responsibilities to me concerning the non-profit organization. On Monday I wrote the blog for the PTM website and summarized the field trip we took to Thistle Famrs this past Friday. I also began work on a grant that I'm writing for PTM. I'm doing a grant for Lifeway Christian Store and continue to pray that it will come through. To complete the grant application I have been learning quite a bit about the funding of a non-profit organization and the sort of "behind the scenes" type of stuff. I'm not very good with the financial aspects, but I'm trying.
That pretty much sums up the week (I'm trying to shorten these blogs). All in all, another fantastic week with PTM! I love all of the kids so so so much! Everyday our friendships continue to grow and I love them more and more. I'm truly going to miss them while I'm on vacation and although it'll be relaxing, I can't wait to see them when I get back!
Week 2 at YES
This was my second week of working at the Lindsley Youth Encouragement Center. Since M-FUGE did not come this week, I was able to become more accustomed to typical days at the camp. I have also gotten to know the campers better. For example, I have learned that many of the kids absolutely love the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson. On Tuesday, two of my fellow counselors and I allowed the younger campers to play on the center's Wii. The kids chose to play a game I'd never heard of called "Michael Jackson,the Experience." It was so fun dancing with them to hits like "Thriller" and discovering that they know basically all the lyrics to every Michael Jackson song by heart. One of the boys was such a Michael fan that he wore a glove on his hand whenever he danced to a song! I also learned that the little girls really enjoy doing people's hair, especially mine! Before it was their turn to play on the Wii, several of them crowded around my head and began to style my hair in cute little braids. I really enjoy small group times such as this because they allow me to really get to know more about the amazing kids at YES.
As mentioned in my last post, the kids enjoy playing basketball before camp officially starts. One of these athletes is my friend George. I truly admire his passion for the game and his incredible sportsmanship. Whenever I shoot hoops with him, he exclaims "All right!!" with the most adorable grin if I make a basket (which is rare) and always retrieves my basketball if it has gone astray. While I have learned more about many of the YES kids through more structured camp activities such as game time, I have really gotten to know George while hanging out on the basketball court. While we play, we talk about school, his love of Spongebob Squarepants, and the fun things we're doing outside of camp. It was awesome to see his eyes light up when he talked about the camping trip he took with his uncle last weekend and how he got to roast marshmallows. George's stories remind me of how the seemingly little experiences in life such as making s'mores or playing basketball with a new friend can become the best memories.
Final random thought: In the gymnasium there is a dedication plaque. Below the building dedication is Proverbs 22:6 - "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." It amazes me how perfectly this verse matches the mission of YES. I am so grateful to witness and contribute to the center's uplifting influence on the children. As I get to know the kids better, I continuously see this influence's success.
As mentioned in my last post, the kids enjoy playing basketball before camp officially starts. One of these athletes is my friend George. I truly admire his passion for the game and his incredible sportsmanship. Whenever I shoot hoops with him, he exclaims "All right!!" with the most adorable grin if I make a basket (which is rare) and always retrieves my basketball if it has gone astray. While I have learned more about many of the YES kids through more structured camp activities such as game time, I have really gotten to know George while hanging out on the basketball court. While we play, we talk about school, his love of Spongebob Squarepants, and the fun things we're doing outside of camp. It was awesome to see his eyes light up when he talked about the camping trip he took with his uncle last weekend and how he got to roast marshmallows. George's stories remind me of how the seemingly little experiences in life such as making s'mores or playing basketball with a new friend can become the best memories.
Final random thought: In the gymnasium there is a dedication plaque. Below the building dedication is Proverbs 22:6 - "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." It amazes me how perfectly this verse matches the mission of YES. I am so grateful to witness and contribute to the center's uplifting influence on the children. As I get to know the kids better, I continuously see this influence's success.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Week 2 at Bethlehem Center of Nashville
I am well into my second week here at Bethlehem Center, and I have become much more involved and emotionally attached to this wonderful place. I am continuing to work with Ms. Jaynie in the adult GED program and I have met one wonderful woman who comes to me everyday and just asks that I work on her reading skills and vocabulary. We sit and read stories together and answer questions about them, and when we are done she is so thankful for the help that it makes me feel blessed to be the one to get to work with her! This GED program is truly trying to help these people give themselves a better life, and I am proud to be apart of it.
Now, in the afternoons from 12:30 to 2:00, I have been assigned to The Shopping Bag, which is the thrift store affiliated with Bethlehem Center. It relies solely on donations, and all profits go directly towards Bethlehem Center so as to improve other programs, such as child care and adult education. I have been working with Heather, the manager of The Shopping Bag, to set up an Ebay account for the store, and we have been listing different items in the hopes of making more of a profit to help Bethlehem Center. I also work in the back, sorting and ironing clothes so that they are ready to be sold. After only working there for several days, one of the women, Mrs. Sarah, smiled at me and told me "Girl, you're already apart of the family" - and they have been treating me as such. I love the relationships I am forming with these wonderful people!
Finally, at the end of my day, from 2:00 until 3:30 (though I always leave much later than that because I am enjoying myself too much), I continue to work with the children. It amazes me to be able to put names with all of the faces, and to be able to have a personal relationship with the individual children. They smile and wave as I walk into the gym, and it fills me with so much joy that I know I wouldn't want to be anywhere else for this summer. We play games inside or outside, and mostly the kids beg me to play basketball with them, or race them. I am tired at the end of the day, but it is always worth it. The kids bring me so much joy just by getting to see them having fun every day in an environment where they feel comfortable. It is truly a blessing to be working at Bethlehem Centers of Nashville.
Now, in the afternoons from 12:30 to 2:00, I have been assigned to The Shopping Bag, which is the thrift store affiliated with Bethlehem Center. It relies solely on donations, and all profits go directly towards Bethlehem Center so as to improve other programs, such as child care and adult education. I have been working with Heather, the manager of The Shopping Bag, to set up an Ebay account for the store, and we have been listing different items in the hopes of making more of a profit to help Bethlehem Center. I also work in the back, sorting and ironing clothes so that they are ready to be sold. After only working there for several days, one of the women, Mrs. Sarah, smiled at me and told me "Girl, you're already apart of the family" - and they have been treating me as such. I love the relationships I am forming with these wonderful people!
Finally, at the end of my day, from 2:00 until 3:30 (though I always leave much later than that because I am enjoying myself too much), I continue to work with the children. It amazes me to be able to put names with all of the faces, and to be able to have a personal relationship with the individual children. They smile and wave as I walk into the gym, and it fills me with so much joy that I know I wouldn't want to be anywhere else for this summer. We play games inside or outside, and mostly the kids beg me to play basketball with them, or race them. I am tired at the end of the day, but it is always worth it. The kids bring me so much joy just by getting to see them having fun every day in an environment where they feel comfortable. It is truly a blessing to be working at Bethlehem Centers of Nashville.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Week 3
My third week at Habitat was a lot like the first two. Monday through Friday, we worked in our "cave" on flyers and advertisements. Things move fast at Habitat for Humanity, so they really benefit from our extra hands. Scott and I do a lot of tasks that need to be done, but no one here really has time to do. For example, in May there was a golf tournament for sponsors, and on Thursday Scott and I put photos from the event in picture frames and shipped them out to the respective sponsors.
On Friday we went to the HomeStore and began to work on inventory once again. Donations are brought into the HomeStore every day, so the inventory keeps changing. Everyone should come and check out the HomeStore. There are some really great deals on furniture and other home related items.
This week is a big one, as the quarterly newsletter needs to be ready to be sent out by next week. After this week, I will be taking a three week break to go to India, Singapore, and Thailand to meet family.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Weeks 1 and 2
At the Salvation Army, I have really enjoyed working with the kids each day. The first week of camp was a little bit of an adjustment period just because of having to learn what the kids like to do and each ones name. It is amazing to see how each kid is so different yet so many come from similar backgrounds. The kids we work with range from ages 6-13 with 4 different groups with each group having two ages respectively.
Each day is relatively similar. I arrive at work around 8:45 each morning and leave around 4. The day begins with an informational session at 9 for the kids. I was put in charge of the competitive sports aspect of the camp in the rotation. It is similar to the PE of any school. I begin my day working with the 6 and 7 year old kids. These kids are so energetic to start the day and I have noticed that they really just enjoy any sort of competition. Next group rotation, the 12-13 year old group comes in. Most of these kids LOVE to play basketball and soon, a full game of basketball or "gotcha" breaks out. The next period I have the 10-11 group and this group is composed of mostly girls who like to either play volleyball or tether ball. Then i have a 30 minute lunch break at 12 and after lunch comes the 8-9 year old group. This group really does love competition and sometimes the competition gets to heated and the I am forced to put the kids in time out or send them to Carlos.
My favorite part of the day is free time from 3-4 because it is during this time that I can play with the kids of all age groups together. It is good to teach the older kids to play with the younger kids as well.
So far I have really enjoyed this experience and look forward to the rest of the summer!!
James
Each day is relatively similar. I arrive at work around 8:45 each morning and leave around 4. The day begins with an informational session at 9 for the kids. I was put in charge of the competitive sports aspect of the camp in the rotation. It is similar to the PE of any school. I begin my day working with the 6 and 7 year old kids. These kids are so energetic to start the day and I have noticed that they really just enjoy any sort of competition. Next group rotation, the 12-13 year old group comes in. Most of these kids LOVE to play basketball and soon, a full game of basketball or "gotcha" breaks out. The next period I have the 10-11 group and this group is composed of mostly girls who like to either play volleyball or tether ball. Then i have a 30 minute lunch break at 12 and after lunch comes the 8-9 year old group. This group really does love competition and sometimes the competition gets to heated and the I am forced to put the kids in time out or send them to Carlos.
My favorite part of the day is free time from 3-4 because it is during this time that I can play with the kids of all age groups together. It is good to teach the older kids to play with the younger kids as well.
So far I have really enjoyed this experience and look forward to the rest of the summer!!
James
Friday, June 17, 2011
Week 2
Second week at PTM and I'm wiped out! This past week we have done our summer JAM (Jesus and me) program from 6-8 in the evening, so I've spent all day at PTM this week. But I can't say that I haven't love every second of it! JAM, held in a park down the road from PTM, is a time for worship, games, bible stories, snacks, crafts, and FUN! After my regular work day at PTM, I head over to the park and set up for JAM - tents, tables, sound system, and anything else that needs to be done. Around 5:30 the kids start arriving and the fun begins. Once everyone is there, we worship as a whole with upbeat hip hop songs that have been stuck in my head all week. Then we split into crews (four crews for each grade level), about 16 crews total (we have about 150+ kids at summer JAM every night). Most all of my PTM summer camp students come to JAM, but JAM is open to the entire community, so there are plenty that I don't know. Each crew then rotates through the four stations (crafts, snack/dinner, games, and bible skits). About 7:30 we round back up for closing worship. I loved JAM, since it was a time for play and fun. Hearing the kids sing and seeing them jump around to the music reminds me how blessed I am to be apart of this program.
Along with JAM, I continue to teach my problem solving class. Along with my 3rd grade girls and my 4/5th boys and girls, I now teach 3rd grade boys too. Our curriculum grows and I continue to try and brainstorm on exciting ways to tie in leadership, team building, and problem solving. The kids especially enjoyed a game we did this week called Mission Impossible. Zach and I set up a room with string coming from each wall (acting as lasers). The kids then had to guide their blindfolded classmate through the strings without touching them. We laughed as many students completely ran through the strings. On Friday, we took a field trip to Thistle Farms with our 4/5th graders, which I organized last week. Thistle Farms is a half way house for women who have been abused, been in jail, been on the streets, etc, where they get back on their feet and work by making organic bath/body products. We heard two of the women's stories and even got a tour of how they make their products. The kids showed such an interest in the women's stories and asked great questions such as what advice could you give, were you teased when you were younger, and what hopes do you have. I was so proud of their behavior and look forward to more field trips!
This second week has also allowed the kids and I to form a greater bond. Like Mary Katherine, PTM works with M-FUGE. We get a new set of about 15 mission trip volunteers each week from around the south that help take the children from class to class - we call them "shepherds". When new volunteers arrive weekly, and the volunteers that the kids became close with the previous week are gone, the kids are wary. They continue to ask if I'm leaving with the volunteers and it joys me to see their happiness when I tell them I'm staying the entire summer. The kids and I have become attached to each other and I hate leaving work every afternoon.
Although the majority of my work is very rewarding, it isn't like that all the time. Many of the older boys and girls have behavior issues and disciplining is necessary. On Friday on our field trip, two boys got into a huge fist fight and it fell on me to resolve the issue. I hate seeing any of the children sad or angry. The girls also had problems with some new classmates this week. We had a new student join us this week and a group of about 4 girls picked on her. I hope that they accept this sweet new student and learn that talking about other people hurts just as much as a punch. We did an exercise where the entire group of 4/5th girls had to find 5 things they all had in common, which opened some of their eyes that they aren't as different from each other as it seems. I loved hearing that one of their 5 things in common was that they all loved God.
Overall its been a great second week! I can't explain how much I love each one of these kids, especially the ones in my class. Each day we become closer and I feel so completely blessed to share friendships with these children. I can't wait to go back to work next week!
Along with JAM, I continue to teach my problem solving class. Along with my 3rd grade girls and my 4/5th boys and girls, I now teach 3rd grade boys too. Our curriculum grows and I continue to try and brainstorm on exciting ways to tie in leadership, team building, and problem solving. The kids especially enjoyed a game we did this week called Mission Impossible. Zach and I set up a room with string coming from each wall (acting as lasers). The kids then had to guide their blindfolded classmate through the strings without touching them. We laughed as many students completely ran through the strings. On Friday, we took a field trip to Thistle Farms with our 4/5th graders, which I organized last week. Thistle Farms is a half way house for women who have been abused, been in jail, been on the streets, etc, where they get back on their feet and work by making organic bath/body products. We heard two of the women's stories and even got a tour of how they make their products. The kids showed such an interest in the women's stories and asked great questions such as what advice could you give, were you teased when you were younger, and what hopes do you have. I was so proud of their behavior and look forward to more field trips!
This second week has also allowed the kids and I to form a greater bond. Like Mary Katherine, PTM works with M-FUGE. We get a new set of about 15 mission trip volunteers each week from around the south that help take the children from class to class - we call them "shepherds". When new volunteers arrive weekly, and the volunteers that the kids became close with the previous week are gone, the kids are wary. They continue to ask if I'm leaving with the volunteers and it joys me to see their happiness when I tell them I'm staying the entire summer. The kids and I have become attached to each other and I hate leaving work every afternoon.
Although the majority of my work is very rewarding, it isn't like that all the time. Many of the older boys and girls have behavior issues and disciplining is necessary. On Friday on our field trip, two boys got into a huge fist fight and it fell on me to resolve the issue. I hate seeing any of the children sad or angry. The girls also had problems with some new classmates this week. We had a new student join us this week and a group of about 4 girls picked on her. I hope that they accept this sweet new student and learn that talking about other people hurts just as much as a punch. We did an exercise where the entire group of 4/5th girls had to find 5 things they all had in common, which opened some of their eyes that they aren't as different from each other as it seems. I loved hearing that one of their 5 things in common was that they all loved God.
Overall its been a great second week! I can't explain how much I love each one of these kids, especially the ones in my class. Each day we become closer and I feel so completely blessed to share friendships with these children. I can't wait to go back to work next week!
Week 1 at YES
I have just completed my first week of working at the Youth Encouragement Services' Lindsley Center. During the summer, YES runs a toddler daycare program as well as a summer camp for grade school children. I work as a counselor at the latter.
Here is a glimpse of my typical day at YES: At around 8:30 in the morning, I arrive at YES, sign in, and say hello to Mr. Elliot, my supervisor. I am so lucky to have him as a boss because he is friendly, down-to-earth, and displays an awesome passion for his work. For the next several hours, I monitor the gym while the arriving kids begin to play. To my delight, the campers are obsessed with the basketball game "Gotcha," my all-time favorite PE/Extended Care activity from Lower School. My fellow counselors and I have such a fun time playing this with the kids. At 10:00 I help lead worship songs in the auditorium and then Mr. Elliot or his assistant counselor gives a devotional. After this, the kids are divided into three age groups and are sent to participate in various activities. I am usually assigned to help lead activities for the youngest children whose ages range from around four to eight. Our activity for Monday was arts and crafts. My fellow counselor Jereka and I drew pictures of the kids with sidewalk chalk and later we helped the kids make pictures with foam decorations. I help serve lunch at around 12:00, continue the pre-lunch activity afterwards, and then the counselors and I hand out snacks. Beginning at 3:00, the kids begin to leave for home, and I leave at 4:00.
My first week at YES was especially memorable because a mission trip group called M-FUGE visited us Tuesday through Friday. This team was composed of around twenty teenagers and chaperones from across the country who traveled to Nashville this week to pursue God's work. During their visit, M-FUGE led worship time for the kids every afternoon, led games, and performed puppet shows. All the YES counselors were assigned to help with various M-FUGE activities, and I assisted the mission team by preparing the arts and crafts projects they brought with them. On M-FUGE's last day with YES, we all took the kids on a field trip to Centennial Park. I had such wonderful fun with my new YES and M-FUGE friends there when we played catch, Connect Four, and parachute games (M-FUGE brought a giant, colorful parachute for the children to play with). When we said good-bye to the mission team, I felt sorry for them because they would not have the chance to spend more time with the amazing kids at YES; unlike me, they wouldn't be coming back to the Lindsley Center on Monday. This revelation reminded me of the devotional Antoine, Mr. Elliott's assistant counselor, gave on Monday. He reminded the kids of the blessings they receive daily such as food, clothing, and love which others in the world lack, and then he encouraged them to be grateful always. Personally, I am incredibly thankful that I have five more weeks to spend at YES. The campers and counselors act as one big family, and they have graciously welcomed me in as a new member. I can't wait to continue my work at YES and write all about it here!
Here is a glimpse of my typical day at YES: At around 8:30 in the morning, I arrive at YES, sign in, and say hello to Mr. Elliot, my supervisor. I am so lucky to have him as a boss because he is friendly, down-to-earth, and displays an awesome passion for his work. For the next several hours, I monitor the gym while the arriving kids begin to play. To my delight, the campers are obsessed with the basketball game "Gotcha," my all-time favorite PE/Extended Care activity from Lower School. My fellow counselors and I have such a fun time playing this with the kids. At 10:00 I help lead worship songs in the auditorium and then Mr. Elliot or his assistant counselor gives a devotional. After this, the kids are divided into three age groups and are sent to participate in various activities. I am usually assigned to help lead activities for the youngest children whose ages range from around four to eight. Our activity for Monday was arts and crafts. My fellow counselor Jereka and I drew pictures of the kids with sidewalk chalk and later we helped the kids make pictures with foam decorations. I help serve lunch at around 12:00, continue the pre-lunch activity afterwards, and then the counselors and I hand out snacks. Beginning at 3:00, the kids begin to leave for home, and I leave at 4:00.
My first week at YES was especially memorable because a mission trip group called M-FUGE visited us Tuesday through Friday. This team was composed of around twenty teenagers and chaperones from across the country who traveled to Nashville this week to pursue God's work. During their visit, M-FUGE led worship time for the kids every afternoon, led games, and performed puppet shows. All the YES counselors were assigned to help with various M-FUGE activities, and I assisted the mission team by preparing the arts and crafts projects they brought with them. On M-FUGE's last day with YES, we all took the kids on a field trip to Centennial Park. I had such wonderful fun with my new YES and M-FUGE friends there when we played catch, Connect Four, and parachute games (M-FUGE brought a giant, colorful parachute for the children to play with). When we said good-bye to the mission team, I felt sorry for them because they would not have the chance to spend more time with the amazing kids at YES; unlike me, they wouldn't be coming back to the Lindsley Center on Monday. This revelation reminded me of the devotional Antoine, Mr. Elliott's assistant counselor, gave on Monday. He reminded the kids of the blessings they receive daily such as food, clothing, and love which others in the world lack, and then he encouraged them to be grateful always. Personally, I am incredibly thankful that I have five more weeks to spend at YES. The campers and counselors act as one big family, and they have graciously welcomed me in as a new member. I can't wait to continue my work at YES and write all about it here!
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Week 2
This week was my second week at Martha O'Bryan Center (I am taking Thursday and Friday off for college visits). I worked with the kids all this week, and I have already begun to care deeply for them. I work in the classroom for the 3-5 year olds, and their innocence and imagination brings me so much joy. Often, I worry about their safety and future because of the environment that they are growing up in. I just hope that I can be a positive, loving influence on their lives.
I love the people that I am working with in the Early Learning Center. They genuinely care about the kids, and they have welcomed me with open arms into their classrooms. The teachers are so happy for the extra help, and I am so thankful that I was place at Martha O'Bryan Center because they truly appreciate and need the extra pair of hands.
I have been considering getting a degree in education when I go to college, and this experience is helping me to realize all aspects of teaching. I have learned the good, the bad, and that there is much I need to work on. I have trouble being strict with the kids because I want to keep them happy all of the time. However, the other teachers have taught me that being strict is necessary in order to properly teach these children.
I've been told that I will be working in the Early Learning Center for most of my time at Martha O'Bryan Center, and I could not be any happier! I will also be working with the adult education program, and I am excited to become a part of that as well. I am so thankful and blessed to have been chosen to be a part of this, and I can already see and feel my life being changed. I just hope that I can positively change others lives like this experience has changed mine.
I love the people that I am working with in the Early Learning Center. They genuinely care about the kids, and they have welcomed me with open arms into their classrooms. The teachers are so happy for the extra help, and I am so thankful that I was place at Martha O'Bryan Center because they truly appreciate and need the extra pair of hands.
I have been considering getting a degree in education when I go to college, and this experience is helping me to realize all aspects of teaching. I have learned the good, the bad, and that there is much I need to work on. I have trouble being strict with the kids because I want to keep them happy all of the time. However, the other teachers have taught me that being strict is necessary in order to properly teach these children.
I've been told that I will be working in the Early Learning Center for most of my time at Martha O'Bryan Center, and I could not be any happier! I will also be working with the adult education program, and I am excited to become a part of that as well. I am so thankful and blessed to have been chosen to be a part of this, and I can already see and feel my life being changed. I just hope that I can positively change others lives like this experience has changed mine.
Monday, June 13, 2011
First Week at Bethlehem Center of Nashville
This is my first full week working as an intern at the Bethlehem Center of Nashville (I worked Thursday and Friday of the previous week). I have been here for such a short time, but already it has opened my eyes to a whole new culture and way of life. Every morning, I work in the GED program with Mrs. Jaynie helping teenage to middle-aged adults learn the necessary skills in order to pass their GED test.
The first day, I worked with a man from Mexico who struggled on his reading section of his test. He missed several questions, but going back and re-reading the passage with him, it turns out his main problem was simple vocabulary words. When our two hour tutoring session was over, the man was so grateful. I realized how privileged I am to have the exceptional education that I have received through Franklin Road Academy, and I am particularly thankful to God for giving me this education so that I may turn around and help others.
The second half of my day is spent in the “Summer Discovery” program which is basically the 6-11 year old child care program at Bethlehem Center. There are about 28 kids there a day, and my job as a counselor is basically to play with them and make sure they are safe and happy. It is so rewarding when I walk in the gym and receive hugs from all of the children. Slowly, I am learning their names – I don’t have them all yet!
I have not been at Bethlehem Center long enough to see a significant change in the children, but I am so excited to spend the rest of my summer with these kids – they’re great! I love spending my afternoons at Discovery, and am very hopeful for the rest of the summer.
Scott and Aditya's Photo Blog
This is a joint blog by Aditya Thawardas and Scott Looney. We will take you through an average day as an intern at Habitat for Humanity.
We arrive at around 9:00 every morning.
This is usually where we work. It's a computer supply closet transformed into a workplace. We've nicknamed it "The Cave."
Scott is currently working on a grant.
Aditya is creating an 8x3 foot banner for the front of the building to announce that the offices will soon be relocating.
A lot of Aditya's day is spent making advertisements and merchandise for Habitat, like the examples above.
A lot of our day is filled with simple office tasks, like copying documents and compiling facts.
Sometimes, we get a cubicle to work in. Here, Scott is working on employee manuals.
Across the street from the Habitat offices lies the HomeStore, which sells new and used home-related items to the public to fund houses.
We go to the HomeStore almost every day, and we always make sure to look both ways before crossing the street.
Every Friday we work the full day in the HomeStore. Here we are helping with inventory.
Be sure to become a fan of Nashville Area Habitat for Humanity on Facebook, a page both of us have been working on.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Week 1
This week was my first week working with the Martha O'Bryan Center (MOBC), and I absolutely loved it! Monday and Tuesday I worked in the Early Learning Center with the kids which was an eye-opening experience. A three year old named Melvin started cussing, and it made me realize just how different of an environment these kids are raised in. Nevertheless, every time I see the kids, they brighten my day with their hugs and smiles.
Miss Martha's Ice Cream Crankin' is this Sunday, and it's one of the biggest events that MOBC puts on all year. So, I helped get ready for that Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. I put together tote bags, cash boxes, and whatever else needed to be done. Everyone in the office was so appreciative of my help and were extremely nice. I'm also helping out with the Crankin' this Sunday and can't wait to be a part of the event that raises so much money every year.
I'm told that this summer I will continue to work in the Early Learning Center, and I will also help tutor the GED students and work in the food bank. I can't wait to learn about all of the aspects of MOBC and help out in any way that I can!
Miss Martha's Ice Cream Crankin' is this Sunday, and it's one of the biggest events that MOBC puts on all year. So, I helped get ready for that Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. I put together tote bags, cash boxes, and whatever else needed to be done. Everyone in the office was so appreciative of my help and were extremely nice. I'm also helping out with the Crankin' this Sunday and can't wait to be a part of the event that raises so much money every year.
I'm told that this summer I will continue to work in the Early Learning Center, and I will also help tutor the GED students and work in the food bank. I can't wait to learn about all of the aspects of MOBC and help out in any way that I can!
Friday, June 10, 2011
Week 1
Woo! First week of Turner Fellowship. I have been working with Preston Taylor Ministries (PTM) for the past week with Zach. Chan, our contact person, has dealt us quite a bit of responsibilities. Zach and I teach a problem solving class for PTM's summer program for children K-5th grade. We teach about 8 3rd grade girls and about 16 4/5th grade boys and girls. Chan has placed the 4/5th boys and girls into our hands - Zach responsible for the boys, and I for the girls. I'm constructing a curriculum for the 6 weeks that I'll be working at PTM with these girls. We have done activities such as music appreciation, hula hoop passes, and my personal favorite so far, a blindfolded cone game. I have even planned a field trip for the kids next week to visit Thistle Farms, which I'm super excited about. The responsibilities that I have with PTM are sometimes overwhelming, but with each day, I become more comfortable and confident in the children and my curriculum. I continue to learn and brainstorm for new and creative ways to engage the children in problem solving, team building, and leadership.
Chan has asked us to specifically to instill leadership values into these young children's minds. Zach and I held leadership elections today for the girls and boys. We will have 3 boys and 3 girls on a leadership committee. The committee will have important responsibilties at PTM (picking up trash) and even meet with Chan, Zach, and me plan and discuss ideas for the class. I LOVED seeing the girls step up and distinguish themselves as leaders. I ended up having 4 girls presenting speeches today and was so proud to see them share their hopes with their classmates. I can't wait to see what happens with this group.
On a typical day, I arrive and have an hour to prepare for the day and/or plan for the coming week. Then, the children arrive and I get to play with the kids outside and play games inside. I love seeing all the little kids that I don't get to teach during this time. We then circle around and have worship with all 80 or so kids enrolled in the PTM summer camp. Then the kids are dismissed and I teach my 3rd grade girls and help Zach with the 4/5th boys. After that, I eat lunch and then have planning time. Then I teach my 4/5th girls. I have one more planning time, which has recently been replaced with working with the girls on their speeches for the election. After my last class we have closing time when we pass out awards to the kids. After about half of the kids go home I have an enrichment hour with the other half. So far, I have taught crafts, tennis, fitness, and today, we went to the YMCA. This is one of my favorite parts of the day since we have so much fun with the kids. After the enrichment kids go home, Zach and I either stay to talk with Chan or head home.
Even though its only been a week, I am totally in love with PTM. The staff is so welcoming and helpful and the kids are so loving. It's been a bit challenging with all my responsibilities, but as I said, I continue to learn. It's heartbreaking to know that the children I work with have unstable homes and haven't grown up in a home where they have everything they want and need like I have. I can only pray that I am making a difference in these kids' lives in the short time I have with them this summer. I can't say how much all the kids at PTM have already grown on me and I can't imagine how much more I am going to fall in love with them. I am especially looking forward to helping out with the evening JAM (Jesus and me) evening camp next week. Until then, I hope all my other fellows are having as much fun as I am and am praying that God changes our lives this summer.
Chan has asked us to specifically to instill leadership values into these young children's minds. Zach and I held leadership elections today for the girls and boys. We will have 3 boys and 3 girls on a leadership committee. The committee will have important responsibilties at PTM (picking up trash) and even meet with Chan, Zach, and me plan and discuss ideas for the class. I LOVED seeing the girls step up and distinguish themselves as leaders. I ended up having 4 girls presenting speeches today and was so proud to see them share their hopes with their classmates. I can't wait to see what happens with this group.
On a typical day, I arrive and have an hour to prepare for the day and/or plan for the coming week. Then, the children arrive and I get to play with the kids outside and play games inside. I love seeing all the little kids that I don't get to teach during this time. We then circle around and have worship with all 80 or so kids enrolled in the PTM summer camp. Then the kids are dismissed and I teach my 3rd grade girls and help Zach with the 4/5th boys. After that, I eat lunch and then have planning time. Then I teach my 4/5th girls. I have one more planning time, which has recently been replaced with working with the girls on their speeches for the election. After my last class we have closing time when we pass out awards to the kids. After about half of the kids go home I have an enrichment hour with the other half. So far, I have taught crafts, tennis, fitness, and today, we went to the YMCA. This is one of my favorite parts of the day since we have so much fun with the kids. After the enrichment kids go home, Zach and I either stay to talk with Chan or head home.
Even though its only been a week, I am totally in love with PTM. The staff is so welcoming and helpful and the kids are so loving. It's been a bit challenging with all my responsibilities, but as I said, I continue to learn. It's heartbreaking to know that the children I work with have unstable homes and haven't grown up in a home where they have everything they want and need like I have. I can only pray that I am making a difference in these kids' lives in the short time I have with them this summer. I can't say how much all the kids at PTM have already grown on me and I can't imagine how much more I am going to fall in love with them. I am especially looking forward to helping out with the evening JAM (Jesus and me) evening camp next week. Until then, I hope all my other fellows are having as much fun as I am and am praying that God changes our lives this summer.
Friday, June 3, 2011
First Week
I, like Scott, have been working at Nashville Area Habitat for Humanity. The first week has been very interesting. I have been matched with Mrs. Stinson in the marketing department of Habitat, and it seems that I will be working in marketing all summer.
We started the week with a "communications audit". In other words, every media piece that goes to the public was examined, and the staff decided whether each was still useful. I think this was a great way to get me started in the marketing department of Habitat, and set up a full summer of editing and improving these documents.
The last dedication of houses for the summer is this weekend. Sadly, I won't be able to make it due to my SAT, but Mrs. Stinson allowed me to create the dedication program that will be given to all who attend. I was very grateful that she allowed me to take on such an important task, which included designing ads that will be used in future programs.
At the end of the week, Scott and I worked on assembling some light fixtures at the HomeStore. We also began inventory.
In the coming week, I will be tasked of creating some t-shirts and other apparel to start selling at builds. It really enjoyed my first week at Habitat, and I'm looking forward to the weeks ahead.
We started the week with a "communications audit". In other words, every media piece that goes to the public was examined, and the staff decided whether each was still useful. I think this was a great way to get me started in the marketing department of Habitat, and set up a full summer of editing and improving these documents.
The last dedication of houses for the summer is this weekend. Sadly, I won't be able to make it due to my SAT, but Mrs. Stinson allowed me to create the dedication program that will be given to all who attend. I was very grateful that she allowed me to take on such an important task, which included designing ads that will be used in future programs.
At the end of the week, Scott and I worked on assembling some light fixtures at the HomeStore. We also began inventory.
In the coming week, I will be tasked of creating some t-shirts and other apparel to start selling at builds. It really enjoyed my first week at Habitat, and I'm looking forward to the weeks ahead.
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