After school inner-city program
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the problem:
Cabrini Green is one of the worst neighborhoods in Chicago, and The Wayman Alliance for Community Peace provides a safe learning environment for students kindergarten through high school to attend. I found that the students were some of the roughest, wildest, and hostile children I have ever witnessed, and I was helping the third graders. Is there a way to discipline children correctly, and how could the economically-challenged environment change to provide a safe habitat for children and adults?
vital stats:
people impacted:
150people involved:
20why it's important:
As an encouragement of my class Wealth, Poverty, and God in Chicago, The Wayman Alliance for Community Peace (WACP) was an opportunity to volunteer at an after school inner-city program in Cabrini Green. I helped Although this is hectic, and I have little control over the students, I know I am helping children stay in a safe environment, providing their parents a little more time to themselves, and helping a children learn. Although I cannot specifically change everything I addressed by myself, I do believe I helped children stay out of trouble. In fact, continuing to return and providing a positive influence may inspire a child to strive to his or her fullest potential, improving the next generation of lives in Cabrini Green.
the plan of action:
I attended a meeting to inquire the volunteer project. It seemed hectic and time consuming, but I decided to help. I volunteered for three separate days. At the end of the first day, I did not want to return, yet I did. The second service date was a little easier, now that the children knew me, but it still drained my energy, helping multiple children with homework and breaking up fights. Finally, my most recent date was incredibly easy. The children knew me, listened to me, and respected me. Perhaps so many volunteers come and go that the children take advantage of them, but when someone decides to stay, they learn to respect that person. One child kept holding my hand and asking, "Will you come back tomorrow?" I know that I have made an impact, at least in his life, which is why I must return.
how you can get involved:
The Wayman Alliance for Community Peace is always looking for volunteers, but if you do not live in the Chicago area, volunteer anywhere. No place will turn you away, and you can make a difference. It is rewarding and provides cultural diversity.
