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The views expressed on this page are soley
those of the author and do not
necessarily represent the views of County
News Online
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Edison students
speak out about After School Program
By Bob Robinson
“This program was a phenomenal experience. It helped me grow as a
person; some days I didn't want to be there or had a bad day and I
would have to put all that aside because some of the kids could be
having a rough day and I’d need to be there for them.”
“In my personal opinion I believe that the After School Program
could make the difference for a child who may be on the edge at a
crucial point in childhood.”
“Given a chance to grow and thrive in a positive environment, I see
these children blossoming before my eyes. I feel blessed that I have
become a bright spot in their day and they look forward to spending
time with me as much as I do with them.”
“The program wasn’t just about helping the students; it has also
evolved me as a volunteer. The After School Program has rededicated my
commitment to learning…”
These are just a few of the comments from Edison students who have been
working in the Empowering Darke County Youth After School Program. All
students, whether they chose this or other options for their
Fundamentals of Communications term project, had to write an evaluation
of the program or project of their choice. A little over a third of the
students chose Empowering Darke County Youth’s After School Program…
and the impact on many of them has been dramatic.
“I’ve always wanted to make a difference in the world,” said one
student. “Finally, I am.”
“It was a great experience to have and I will remember it forever,”
said another.
The After School Program uses (and requires) one or more licensed
tutors on site at all times, however Edison students are its backbone.
The program couldn’t exist without them. Over the next week or two,
County News Online will be publishing some of the evaluations these
students have written.
This program has not only had a huge impact on the participating kids,
but also on the “big kids” they look up to.
While nearly all students indicated growth in themselves or
considerable value in the program – or both – they all were required to
relate the experience to Edison’s Core Values, and to suggest
improvements that could be made. Most found that knowledge and the
ability to use the Core Values – Communication, Critical Thinking,
Ethics, Respect for Learning, Human Diversity and Teamwork – were
essential in successfully working with these children. They also noted
one serious need… more volunteers!!
If you would like the same rewarding experience these students
discovered, please contact Empowering Darke County Youth at empoweringdarkecountyyouth@gmail.com.
You can also communicate with the organization through Facebook Empowering Darke County Youth. Find out
more about the organization and the program at http://www.countynewsonline.org/empowering.html
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