Emmy Johnson's Blog
May Update. / 05.22.08, 01:56 PM
SCHOOL’S OUT FOR SUMMER…
As of Wednesday, May 14th summer has officially begun. This was the last day of our S.A.Y. Yes! program for the academic year, and I have to admit there were times when I felt like this day could not come fast enough.
This might come as a surprise to some of you, considering my choice of major in college, but part of my motivation to do this program was to try things that did not necessarily involve kids. However, I am thankful for how my year has played out and for the variety of service sites at which I volunteer. Working with these kids has opened my eyes to the disadvantages inner-city children face — but I am a strong believer that this should not be an excuse for them. I think it’s important to have the same expectations of these kids that I do of middle to upper-class, suburban kids, but at the same time allowing inner-city kids more grace as they strive to meet those expectations.
The center overcame a number of challenges this year. We went through two directors as well as various curriculum and discipline systems. But even with all of the transitions we were able to have a number of fun activities for the kids that included: a Block Party, a Multicultural Thanksgiving, a Christmas Program, a Good Friday Service and a Year-End Cookout.
Since it was such a good year, New Life decided to try and run its first Summer Program that starts June 2nd. We will meet three days a week for two hours. Two of the days will rotate between fun, educational activities and bringing plans of a community garden to life on Echo street. We will be able to see the garden from our apartment! The other day will be our field trip day. We plan on taking the kids to the following places: The King Center, Botanical Gardens, Piedmont Park, The Natural History Museum, Atlanta Zoo, Atlanta History Center, and Center for Puppetry Arts.
The program will run for the months of June and July and we have the next two weeks to get ready. It should be a fun and challenging summer of which I am excited to be a part!
PRAISES
~Our team has less than $10,000 to raise!
~The scorching heat seems to be holding off a bit.
~Conversations with neighbors are deepening.
PRAYER REQUESTS
~Pray for our team to be fully funded by the end of our year.
~Pray for the S.A.Y. Yes! summer program starting June 2nd.
~Pray for me as I continue to think about and make decisions concerning life after Mission Year.
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