Last night I was amazed and inspired by the young women at Excelsior Youth Center. After practicing the game and their teaching methods the night before, the girls taught us one of their favorite card games –phase 10.
While we were at Excelsior I was struck by the openness and honesty of both the girls and the staff. At a center where young women go because of behavior difficulties, I would imagine that this is not easy, yet I also think it is probably one of the reasons for their successful treatment rate. Excelsior had a very positive atmosphere where the girls felt comfortable to talk about their situations and the staff gave them the opportunity to do so.
For the other volunteers who were at Excelsior:
-What was your favorite aspect of volunteering at Excelsior?
-Do you think we helped create change in our time volunteering? Why or why not? If not, how do you think we could create change in the future?
-What are your thoughts on Excelsior in comparison to the other organizations we have volunteered at?
-Nancy
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1 comments:
I was impressed with the girls, esp the one we played the Phase 10 game with. She seemed very poised and centered; being at Excelsior has obviously been good for her. She was excited about completing her time there, and ready for a career in cosmetology.
I was also impressed with the Excelsior Coordinator. She gave a very good presentation, she obviously knows her business, and is a good advocate for the cause.
It's a tough business they're in, my hat's off to them. They have to be compassionate and caring at the same time as being no-nonsense and tough about the girls' behavior and their progress at Excelsior. That was highlighted for me when a couple of the girls who were supposed to join us were not allowed to do so, because of disciplinary reasons.
I was there to have fun, and I did! The Phase 10 game was very enjoyable, she taught us well, and we learned more as the game progressed. If only I had not put down the nine card at the end! :-)
I hope I had a positive effect, that was my intention certainly. Warren Village had many children, whereas Excelsior had only the two girls for us to work with. But they were great, and I'm glad I went.
Looking forward to the Boys and Girls Club next week.
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