Kristina Champe
Alternative Spring Break
Reflection
Day 5
Today was our last day at the Nashville Rescue Mission. It was pretty sad but we all made the best of it. All of the groups split up to do different things and it was super fun. This time some of the girls went up to help teach the GED classes. They said they had a great time. The group that I was apart of was down in the basement, and we separated some canned goods into boxes to make it easier for them to see what they had. Some of the others cleared off shelves to make room for some cans because we had so many. I swear we had 3 huge boxes of green beans and 2 big boxes of corn. It was fun and chaotic all at the same time! We took a break and ate lunch which was actually really good so that was nice, and while we were eating we were wondering what we were going to be doing for dinner. A girl from the group said that she had heard that the people at the mission had made a special dinner for us. We were so excited. After lunch we went back to our duties in the basement and it was so much fun. I took pictures and everyone seemed to be in better spirits. Of course there were some people whose favorite spot happened to be the benches in the bathroom; they were dubbed the “texting benches”. They were for girls who were tired of ‘working’ and decided they would go hide out in the bathroom and text. This was disrespectful and lazy on so many levels. Anyway, after we got finished working we went upstairs to the dinning hall and waited a few minutes for dinner. To our surprise they took us out of the dinning hall and into a conference room where they had decorated it very nice and had amazing food. We were so happy, and they main guy who was there in charge, gave a little speech and said they were so thankful that we came that week and he thanked us for everything. I almost cried I was so happy! After we ate I was sad that we were leaving and not coming back the next day.
This trip has helped me in so many ways. I will never take anything I have for granted, and I will learn to enjoy life, because you never know what will happen. I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to attend this trip and I hope that Concord offers more trips like this for students in the future. I think that students could really benefit from this!
Thanks again to everyone who helped make this trip possible!
Monday, March 16, 2009
MeganWebber
Megan Webber
ASB Reflections
March 11, 2009
Today was spent at Campus for Human Development, and I absolutely loved it. If it ever crossed my mind to work in the community development area of Social Work this would be what I wanted to do, and more than likely I’d want to return and work with Wendy and Campus for Human Development. Compared to the Nashville Rescue Mission, it was a 110% difference and change in atmosphere. When we first entered the building today it just seemed so much homier. There were people hanging out outside just sitting on benches and chairs enjoy the nice day, while people inside were watching TV or talking to others. It was like there was a level of freedom there that gave them the opportunity to just take a load off and enjoy some free time off the streets of Nashville.
Wendy has worked at CHD for a year and a half now, but volunteered for about 7 years before this. With this being said, you can really tell that the men and women that come through the doors of the establishment truly respect her. Someone asked how she gained so much respect and the main thing she said when responding was that she gives the people their respect back. While at CHD a couple of our group members were sorting books and making sure they were in good condition. While we were all sitting outside doing this there was a conflict between one of the workers and a homeless man. I’m not sure about the exact details, but the homeless man acted like he was going to jump at the worker. Wendy walked over just to ask what was going on and the homeless man walked away and didn’t even pursue the confrontation with the other man. To me, that showed a definite level of respect for Wendy. He respected her enough to just walk away, even though he was obviously very angry, and not just ignore her concerns.
I got a chance to talk to some of the women entering CDH, and spent a lot of time talking to this one woman in particular. When I asked if she would be willing to tell me her story she opened right up and said she was a domestic violence victim. She talked a lot about how, although she’s homeless and her life isn’t wonderful, she needed to leave her boyfriend to save her life. She, also, talked about previous times she had run away from her boyfriend he had found her even when she had gone to a different state. It was just really scary, and made me feel hopeless just listening to her story. I can’t imagine how she feels, but she did the right thing by leaving her husband, and hopefully it ends up being that her life is saved. She really impacted me a lot and I was very grateful to be able to have the opportunity to hear her story.
Today was an awesome day! Wendy took time to explain why we were doing certain things so it really felt like we were making small differences and accomplishing small tasks that would eventually go towards something in the bigger picture. The mission statement for Campus for Human Development is the following: “Through the power of spirituality and the practice of love, the Campus for Human Development provides hospitality with respect that offers hope in a community or non-violence.” The seven bolded words are the core values they believe in. I experienced something I could relate to each of these seven words today. The atmosphere and power that the Campus of Human Development generates is amazing, and the people that enter through the doors of that small building are truly blessed.
ASB Reflections
March 11, 2009
Today was spent at Campus for Human Development, and I absolutely loved it. If it ever crossed my mind to work in the community development area of Social Work this would be what I wanted to do, and more than likely I’d want to return and work with Wendy and Campus for Human Development. Compared to the Nashville Rescue Mission, it was a 110% difference and change in atmosphere. When we first entered the building today it just seemed so much homier. There were people hanging out outside just sitting on benches and chairs enjoy the nice day, while people inside were watching TV or talking to others. It was like there was a level of freedom there that gave them the opportunity to just take a load off and enjoy some free time off the streets of Nashville.
Wendy has worked at CHD for a year and a half now, but volunteered for about 7 years before this. With this being said, you can really tell that the men and women that come through the doors of the establishment truly respect her. Someone asked how she gained so much respect and the main thing she said when responding was that she gives the people their respect back. While at CHD a couple of our group members were sorting books and making sure they were in good condition. While we were all sitting outside doing this there was a conflict between one of the workers and a homeless man. I’m not sure about the exact details, but the homeless man acted like he was going to jump at the worker. Wendy walked over just to ask what was going on and the homeless man walked away and didn’t even pursue the confrontation with the other man. To me, that showed a definite level of respect for Wendy. He respected her enough to just walk away, even though he was obviously very angry, and not just ignore her concerns.
I got a chance to talk to some of the women entering CDH, and spent a lot of time talking to this one woman in particular. When I asked if she would be willing to tell me her story she opened right up and said she was a domestic violence victim. She talked a lot about how, although she’s homeless and her life isn’t wonderful, she needed to leave her boyfriend to save her life. She, also, talked about previous times she had run away from her boyfriend he had found her even when she had gone to a different state. It was just really scary, and made me feel hopeless just listening to her story. I can’t imagine how she feels, but she did the right thing by leaving her husband, and hopefully it ends up being that her life is saved. She really impacted me a lot and I was very grateful to be able to have the opportunity to hear her story.
Today was an awesome day! Wendy took time to explain why we were doing certain things so it really felt like we were making small differences and accomplishing small tasks that would eventually go towards something in the bigger picture. The mission statement for Campus for Human Development is the following: “Through the power of spirituality and the practice of love, the Campus for Human Development provides hospitality with respect that offers hope in a community or non-violence.” The seven bolded words are the core values they believe in. I experienced something I could relate to each of these seven words today. The atmosphere and power that the Campus of Human Development generates is amazing, and the people that enter through the doors of that small building are truly blessed.
VanVu
Entry for March 8th, 2009
2:00 a.m, we were still awake! After a hard-working day, nobody wanted to go to bed soon. Our roommates were chatting on Facebook and listening to music while Mai, Tung and I were playing cards. We offered a funny rule that each loser will be drawn one thing on his or her face by the winner. Unfortunately, it turned out that I was the only person who had so many pictures that I bet you couldn’t find any free space left on my face. That was the time we decided to stop the game. However, we still did not go to bed after that. Tung and Mai watched movies when I was chatting with my friends back home. Today is International Women’s day in Vietnam. On this day, we celebrate it; all the women (and the girls as well) are received all the priorities, the presents, the colorful flowers and the best greetings from the men and from the other girls who care about them (It’s normally their children, sisters or colleagues). I was so happy to receive my friends’ greetings and to send mine to the others.
4:00 a.m, I finally wanted to go to bed. My eyes were so tired and so hurt that they even didn’t want to open. Mai and Tung have felt asleep. Tung slept so smoothly that I didn’t want to wake him up. “Ok! It’s fine, so today we have an extra roommate and an extra bedmate”, I thought, “at least, 3 of us (Mai, Tung and I) were all so skinny that we could fit in one bed”.
11:50 a.m, I woke up after hearing something a little bit noisy. Our roommates have waken up and had breakfast. “Oh, man!!! I miss my breakfast again!”, I said. We were going to have a meeting at 12:30pm so I had to dress up quickly. Today we would go to the Nashville Visual Art. We had lunch at there. When lining up, I read the menu. They had nothing but salads, sandwiches and some kids’ choices. I don’t like any salads as well as sandwiches. I had no idea what I would offer but French fries. After seeing the table which wrote all today’s special offers, I almost jumped up because they had Cheese pizza, one of my favorite food. However, it might not be my good-luck day after all when the salesman said that my cheese pizza had totally gone. I was so mad and reluctantly changed my order to something called Grilled chicken wrap. I thought that it was a kind of chicken tender and almost forgot about the “wrap” word. The only thing that I concentrated on is that my empty stomach was going on strike and my powerless body was playing the crazily hungry dancing. After ten minutes waiting for the food, the beautiful waitress finally brought my meal to my table. The Grilled chicken wrap is totally green, cold and absolutely pukable (at least is with me). I only ate French fries to fill my stomach and keep me alive until the dinner.
After lunch, we went into the Visual art. The first floor had nothing but the pictures & sculptures. It’s almost about the sacrifice of Christ, the sacred of Jesus, the purity of the Virgin and the baby. The artworks are collected mostly from French and Germany. I’m not a religious person and I have no idea about Jesus as well as the Christians. However, when I looked at the artworks and their descriptions, I knew that Jesus was betrayed because of posing as God’s son and finally was nailed up on a cross. I saw many sculptures which craved the death of Jesus. They all were so precise and show up the sacred, proud and grave feeling of the death. I only feel excited with & interesting in the sculptures, which could attract my eyes & my attention, which are something that I can look at all the small details and having a visual feeling of material & 3- dimensions structure. Therefore I only spend my time before the big sculptures and keep watching them with ease.
After finish watching all the sculptures in the first floor, I climbed upstairs and did some artwork by myself. It’s extremely a blast when I could draw, print and design whatever I want to. We left the Nashville Visual Art around 5:00 pm and burst out. Some of my friends who live in Nashville came to pick Mai, Tung and I up to a Vietnamese restaurant called “Kien Giang”. We had a great dinner, and then went around Nashville to enjoy the beautiful sight at night since all the Malls and entertainment place were closed at 6:00pm. Enjoying the rest of Sunday by playing some cards and pokers with my friends, I actually had so much fun as well as plentiful of great pictures for today (that couldn’t be written in only two pages, of course)!
2:00 a.m, we were still awake! After a hard-working day, nobody wanted to go to bed soon. Our roommates were chatting on Facebook and listening to music while Mai, Tung and I were playing cards. We offered a funny rule that each loser will be drawn one thing on his or her face by the winner. Unfortunately, it turned out that I was the only person who had so many pictures that I bet you couldn’t find any free space left on my face. That was the time we decided to stop the game. However, we still did not go to bed after that. Tung and Mai watched movies when I was chatting with my friends back home. Today is International Women’s day in Vietnam. On this day, we celebrate it; all the women (and the girls as well) are received all the priorities, the presents, the colorful flowers and the best greetings from the men and from the other girls who care about them (It’s normally their children, sisters or colleagues). I was so happy to receive my friends’ greetings and to send mine to the others.
4:00 a.m, I finally wanted to go to bed. My eyes were so tired and so hurt that they even didn’t want to open. Mai and Tung have felt asleep. Tung slept so smoothly that I didn’t want to wake him up. “Ok! It’s fine, so today we have an extra roommate and an extra bedmate”, I thought, “at least, 3 of us (Mai, Tung and I) were all so skinny that we could fit in one bed”.
11:50 a.m, I woke up after hearing something a little bit noisy. Our roommates have waken up and had breakfast. “Oh, man!!! I miss my breakfast again!”, I said. We were going to have a meeting at 12:30pm so I had to dress up quickly. Today we would go to the Nashville Visual Art. We had lunch at there. When lining up, I read the menu. They had nothing but salads, sandwiches and some kids’ choices. I don’t like any salads as well as sandwiches. I had no idea what I would offer but French fries. After seeing the table which wrote all today’s special offers, I almost jumped up because they had Cheese pizza, one of my favorite food. However, it might not be my good-luck day after all when the salesman said that my cheese pizza had totally gone. I was so mad and reluctantly changed my order to something called Grilled chicken wrap. I thought that it was a kind of chicken tender and almost forgot about the “wrap” word. The only thing that I concentrated on is that my empty stomach was going on strike and my powerless body was playing the crazily hungry dancing. After ten minutes waiting for the food, the beautiful waitress finally brought my meal to my table. The Grilled chicken wrap is totally green, cold and absolutely pukable (at least is with me). I only ate French fries to fill my stomach and keep me alive until the dinner.
After lunch, we went into the Visual art. The first floor had nothing but the pictures & sculptures. It’s almost about the sacrifice of Christ, the sacred of Jesus, the purity of the Virgin and the baby. The artworks are collected mostly from French and Germany. I’m not a religious person and I have no idea about Jesus as well as the Christians. However, when I looked at the artworks and their descriptions, I knew that Jesus was betrayed because of posing as God’s son and finally was nailed up on a cross. I saw many sculptures which craved the death of Jesus. They all were so precise and show up the sacred, proud and grave feeling of the death. I only feel excited with & interesting in the sculptures, which could attract my eyes & my attention, which are something that I can look at all the small details and having a visual feeling of material & 3- dimensions structure. Therefore I only spend my time before the big sculptures and keep watching them with ease.
After finish watching all the sculptures in the first floor, I climbed upstairs and did some artwork by myself. It’s extremely a blast when I could draw, print and design whatever I want to. We left the Nashville Visual Art around 5:00 pm and burst out. Some of my friends who live in Nashville came to pick Mai, Tung and I up to a Vietnamese restaurant called “Kien Giang”. We had a great dinner, and then went around Nashville to enjoy the beautiful sight at night since all the Malls and entertainment place were closed at 6:00pm. Enjoying the rest of Sunday by playing some cards and pokers with my friends, I actually had so much fun as well as plentiful of great pictures for today (that couldn’t be written in only two pages, of course)!
SamanthaThomas
Samantha Thomas
2-10-09
Reflection 3
Today was a day of clarification for a couple of teammates and I today. We were assigned to work in the clothing closet where the men of the program at the Nashville Rescue Mission can receive any needed clothing for six out of the seven days. Today, we had to sort tee shirts, dress shirts, pullovers, jackets, pants, dress pants and shoes into their corresponding sizes. While sorting through the second-hand clothing, I realized how much better I had life than almost 500 homeless that live in Nashville. I couldn’t imagine how it would feel to come from wearing decent clothing with no holes, no stains, and no wear to wearing what these men wore every day. While so many of the girls on the trip wear their Aeropostale and Gucci and still find discontent in their appearances.
Speaking of which, I must vent because to be quite frankly honest, I don’t believe many of those girls feel any different than when they arrived. They signed up for the free trip and not the free mission trip. Sometimes I have found myself becoming quite frustrated when I see how lightly they are taking the situation. It’s as if they aren’t even here in Nashville with us, but rather with each other on some joy ride. Some of them seem almost afraid of the individuals in the program because they won’t so much as make eye contact or say hello. And even though sometimes the workload varies from group to group from day to day, there should be an equal impact. It really doesn’t matter whether that impact is on a personal level with some of the individuals of the program or whether it affects the large group of homeless through the sorting we have done in the warehouse. I’m just hoping to see more out of these girls by the end of the week.
However, back to my initial reflection, I have found that these people that work at the shelter are the people who will remember your name the next time they see you. They aren’t like those who see your face and then immediately after can’t remember what letter your name began with. But also in addition to your name and your personality, these people are genuinely thankful for every minute of work that we have put in at their shelter. The difference is clear when taking a glance around in the once extremely cluttered and unsorted basement we were working in. Now, there are general locations for every item. Everyone knows where the sheets, blankets, toiletries, general appliances, etc belong. Everything is beginning to find its place in this huge space. Everything is finally beginning to make sense. Why we are here. What our purpose is. How we are affecting these peoples’ lives.
2-10-09
Reflection 3
Today was a day of clarification for a couple of teammates and I today. We were assigned to work in the clothing closet where the men of the program at the Nashville Rescue Mission can receive any needed clothing for six out of the seven days. Today, we had to sort tee shirts, dress shirts, pullovers, jackets, pants, dress pants and shoes into their corresponding sizes. While sorting through the second-hand clothing, I realized how much better I had life than almost 500 homeless that live in Nashville. I couldn’t imagine how it would feel to come from wearing decent clothing with no holes, no stains, and no wear to wearing what these men wore every day. While so many of the girls on the trip wear their Aeropostale and Gucci and still find discontent in their appearances.
Speaking of which, I must vent because to be quite frankly honest, I don’t believe many of those girls feel any different than when they arrived. They signed up for the free trip and not the free mission trip. Sometimes I have found myself becoming quite frustrated when I see how lightly they are taking the situation. It’s as if they aren’t even here in Nashville with us, but rather with each other on some joy ride. Some of them seem almost afraid of the individuals in the program because they won’t so much as make eye contact or say hello. And even though sometimes the workload varies from group to group from day to day, there should be an equal impact. It really doesn’t matter whether that impact is on a personal level with some of the individuals of the program or whether it affects the large group of homeless through the sorting we have done in the warehouse. I’m just hoping to see more out of these girls by the end of the week.
However, back to my initial reflection, I have found that these people that work at the shelter are the people who will remember your name the next time they see you. They aren’t like those who see your face and then immediately after can’t remember what letter your name began with. But also in addition to your name and your personality, these people are genuinely thankful for every minute of work that we have put in at their shelter. The difference is clear when taking a glance around in the once extremely cluttered and unsorted basement we were working in. Now, there are general locations for every item. Everyone knows where the sheets, blankets, toiletries, general appliances, etc belong. Everything is beginning to find its place in this huge space. Everything is finally beginning to make sense. Why we are here. What our purpose is. How we are affecting these peoples’ lives.
VanessaAustin
Today was definitely better than all of the other days that we have been here. We went to the Campus for Human Development. Today was really the first day that I have really had any interaction with some of the homeless. We took a tour of the building first. She told us all of the history of how the program got started and what some of their programs are. They try to help the people that come into the shelter better their lives through art, cultural activities, and other classes that teach them how to live better. I really enjoyed today.
My favorite part of the day was when we went to the art room. A few of the guys were in there for a class. When we walked in the room, the guys were so proud of their work. They were really eager to show us what they were working on and to show us what they had already done. The men were just so proud of themselves and it made me really happy to see that a program like this has made such an impact on their lives and how they feel about themselves. One of the men actually said that being homeless has been more of a blessing than the rest of his life. I’m sure that the campus has a huge part in that statement. It showed me that these programs do make a difference.
One of the other guys urged us to go and look down the alleys and see how the homeless really live. He said that someone found a homeless guy shot to death in an alley on one of the streets close to where we were. He wanted us to really experience and see how the homeless really live and what their surroundings really look like. It would be nice to see that but I highly doubt that its going to happen.
I helped paint some of the bathrooms and cubicles that the people can keep their belongings in a safe way. I was covered in paint by the end of the day but I had fun doing it. It was nice to be able to actually see the improvement of the appearance of the campus.
My favorite part of the day was when we went to the art room. A few of the guys were in there for a class. When we walked in the room, the guys were so proud of their work. They were really eager to show us what they were working on and to show us what they had already done. The men were just so proud of themselves and it made me really happy to see that a program like this has made such an impact on their lives and how they feel about themselves. One of the men actually said that being homeless has been more of a blessing than the rest of his life. I’m sure that the campus has a huge part in that statement. It showed me that these programs do make a difference.
One of the other guys urged us to go and look down the alleys and see how the homeless really live. He said that someone found a homeless guy shot to death in an alley on one of the streets close to where we were. He wanted us to really experience and see how the homeless really live and what their surroundings really look like. It would be nice to see that but I highly doubt that its going to happen.
I helped paint some of the bathrooms and cubicles that the people can keep their belongings in a safe way. I was covered in paint by the end of the day but I had fun doing it. It was nice to be able to actually see the improvement of the appearance of the campus.
TacyPyles
Tacy Pyles
Dr. Campbell
TN Alternative Spring Break
Journal Entry 4
11 March 2009
Today was our last day of volunteering - a day of last-minute goodbyes, words of appreciation, hugs, laughter and pictures. We went back to the Nashville Rescue Mission and once again divided up, with some people working in the education department, some working in the basement and some (including me) working in the kitchen.
While in the kitchen, we were finally given the opportunity I had long awaited - the chance to be behind the counter serving as both the program participants and homeless men went through the line. Team work became essential as the line quickly grew and the people kept coming faster. But, what really hit me hard was watching the men from the program - standing in line before they got their food - watching them pray for us. We need to serve them. We need to love them. We came to be a blessing and I stood and watched them pour prayers over us.
We watched man after man walk by - beginning first with those that were disabled. Just to get a chance to smile at them and say, “Have a good day” or ask how they was a privilege I will not get. Many with downcast eyes and pained expressions of embarrassment walked by while others smiled at us with all the joy in the world painted on their faces. I just wanted them to know we were there because we loved them and we had hope for their futures.
At the end of our work day, Billy (one of the men who works there) had prepared, with the help of a few others working at the mission, a wonderful meal for all of us in the conference room - gumbo, salad, sweet potatoes, deserts, chicken, cheese sticks and other delicious foods. As soon as we walked in, I thought I was going to cry. I just don’t understand how these people who gives their lives to this service of helping people are so touched by us taking one short week to come down and help. I don’t understand the beauty of grace. I cannot fathom the depths of love.
All throughout the day, I had wonderful opportunities to talk with man of the men at the mission and multiple times I was humbled by their selfless generosity, their desire to serve us and their passion for life. I know I have many thoughts running through my mind, but this is one of those days where words don’t do justice to emotions. We came to serve and I’m walking away from this covered in blessings.
I have tears running down my face and a broken heart. I don’t know what its like to walk in their shoes everyday, but I have gotten the chance to give them my smile and listen to their voice. I have had the opportunity to hear their stories and wrap my arms around them. I’ve been blessed to join in laughter and meal times with the homeless and the hurting. Now where do I go from here? Where will this take my life?
What has to change…?
Give me your eyes for just one second,
Give me your eyes so I can see,
Everything that I keep missing.
Give me your love for humanity.
Give me your arms for the brokenhearted -
The ones who are far beyond my reach.
Give me your eyes for just one second,
Give me your eyes so I can see.
Dr. Campbell
TN Alternative Spring Break
Journal Entry 4
11 March 2009
Today was our last day of volunteering - a day of last-minute goodbyes, words of appreciation, hugs, laughter and pictures. We went back to the Nashville Rescue Mission and once again divided up, with some people working in the education department, some working in the basement and some (including me) working in the kitchen.
While in the kitchen, we were finally given the opportunity I had long awaited - the chance to be behind the counter serving as both the program participants and homeless men went through the line. Team work became essential as the line quickly grew and the people kept coming faster. But, what really hit me hard was watching the men from the program - standing in line before they got their food - watching them pray for us. We need to serve them. We need to love them. We came to be a blessing and I stood and watched them pour prayers over us.
We watched man after man walk by - beginning first with those that were disabled. Just to get a chance to smile at them and say, “Have a good day” or ask how they was a privilege I will not get. Many with downcast eyes and pained expressions of embarrassment walked by while others smiled at us with all the joy in the world painted on their faces. I just wanted them to know we were there because we loved them and we had hope for their futures.
At the end of our work day, Billy (one of the men who works there) had prepared, with the help of a few others working at the mission, a wonderful meal for all of us in the conference room - gumbo, salad, sweet potatoes, deserts, chicken, cheese sticks and other delicious foods. As soon as we walked in, I thought I was going to cry. I just don’t understand how these people who gives their lives to this service of helping people are so touched by us taking one short week to come down and help. I don’t understand the beauty of grace. I cannot fathom the depths of love.
All throughout the day, I had wonderful opportunities to talk with man of the men at the mission and multiple times I was humbled by their selfless generosity, their desire to serve us and their passion for life. I know I have many thoughts running through my mind, but this is one of those days where words don’t do justice to emotions. We came to serve and I’m walking away from this covered in blessings.
I have tears running down my face and a broken heart. I don’t know what its like to walk in their shoes everyday, but I have gotten the chance to give them my smile and listen to their voice. I have had the opportunity to hear their stories and wrap my arms around them. I’ve been blessed to join in laughter and meal times with the homeless and the hurting. Now where do I go from here? Where will this take my life?
What has to change…?
Give me your eyes for just one second,
Give me your eyes so I can see,
Everything that I keep missing.
Give me your love for humanity.
Give me your arms for the brokenhearted -
The ones who are far beyond my reach.
Give me your eyes for just one second,
Give me your eyes so I can see.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
AkeyaCarterBozman
Akeya Carter-Bozman
Reflection Day 5
March 11, 2009
Sadly, today was our last day of service here in Nashville performing service. My day began with tutoring second level math (Algebra 1 and 2, Geometry and Trigonometry). I had a class of five wonderful selfless men with hearts so meek and kind. While the men worked on their GED study guides we discussed their dreams and goals upon graduating from the missions program. One man told us of his fifteen year addiction and his struggle to stay clean and sober. He told us how God and the directors of the mission stepped in helping him grow in life to become the man he is today. All week long I flocked to a man named Frank, when we met he said that he loved crack more than he loved his children and family at one time. Something inside me just couldn’t stop thinking of what he said.
Today as we discussed everything under the sun from religion to the economy that Frank was is some way like my biological father, because he too loved crack more than he loved being around for me. As Frank told me about his daughter Diamond who is my age, my expression turned from interest and concern to anger and hurt. I have never even told my mother about my feelings for my father, but here his man is in front of me that I barley knew and I’m opening up to him. Frank prayed that God would help me find peace of mind in my anger and that one day I would be able to forgive my father. He hugged me and thanked me for listening and I thanked helping me understand from an addicted father’s perspective.
I cried as I left the mission, not because I felt sorry for the men who lived their as I did on my first day there, but because they had given so much of themselves to me and the other volunteers. The men at the mission made a special dinner for us at the end of our day to thank us for all of our help throughout the week. The food was amazing but the friendships we made are priceless. As far as meeting Frank I am grateful for everything learned from them both about myself and them.
Reflection Day 5
March 11, 2009
Sadly, today was our last day of service here in Nashville performing service. My day began with tutoring second level math (Algebra 1 and 2, Geometry and Trigonometry). I had a class of five wonderful selfless men with hearts so meek and kind. While the men worked on their GED study guides we discussed their dreams and goals upon graduating from the missions program. One man told us of his fifteen year addiction and his struggle to stay clean and sober. He told us how God and the directors of the mission stepped in helping him grow in life to become the man he is today. All week long I flocked to a man named Frank, when we met he said that he loved crack more than he loved his children and family at one time. Something inside me just couldn’t stop thinking of what he said.
Today as we discussed everything under the sun from religion to the economy that Frank was is some way like my biological father, because he too loved crack more than he loved being around for me. As Frank told me about his daughter Diamond who is my age, my expression turned from interest and concern to anger and hurt. I have never even told my mother about my feelings for my father, but here his man is in front of me that I barley knew and I’m opening up to him. Frank prayed that God would help me find peace of mind in my anger and that one day I would be able to forgive my father. He hugged me and thanked me for listening and I thanked helping me understand from an addicted father’s perspective.
I cried as I left the mission, not because I felt sorry for the men who lived their as I did on my first day there, but because they had given so much of themselves to me and the other volunteers. The men at the mission made a special dinner for us at the end of our day to thank us for all of our help throughout the week. The food was amazing but the friendships we made are priceless. As far as meeting Frank I am grateful for everything learned from them both about myself and them.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
KaylaGreen
Kayla Green
Today was our last service day at the Nashville Mission and it was a nice day to end with. Today I started by helping teach one of the classes they have so people can work towards their GEDs. I really enjoyed helping the men in the class better understand the problems that as they explained to me were harder to understand the way the other people explained them. After I helped with the class I got to go back up and do some paper work and organizing for one of the people over the education department at the center. My high point of the day was when I talked a stubborn and lazy man into doing his math problems and helped another man figure out how to round up. My low point of the day was when I saw the appreciation dinner that the mission had for us and all I could think of was that I’d rather the men at the mission had gotten it because I could afford to buy my own food, I appreciated it and it was nice but I felt guilty eating it. My story of the day was when a man walked in and talked to one of the girls and gave her a picture with a saying on the back and then prayed for all of us in the room I really appreciated it. While I was in the room filing stuff and doing stuff the man we were doing it for talked to us about how he used to be on drugs really bad and how he was in college now and working at the program it was a very real example of how the program could turn someone’s life around so well. He encouraged us to join the other trip concord students are going on in april and said that he and one of his friends tried it for one night and ended up sleeping in a slide in a park. Oh and another funny story I wanted to share was that on our way home Jesse about hit three homeless looking people who tried to run across the road and we all joked about him going home from a service trip to help the homeless to admit that he had ran over three of them while there. This trip was an excellent way for me to have a fun rewarding experience over my break and I really appreciate that I got to come here and meet all of the wonderful people that we have worked with here in Nashville.
Today was our last service day at the Nashville Mission and it was a nice day to end with. Today I started by helping teach one of the classes they have so people can work towards their GEDs. I really enjoyed helping the men in the class better understand the problems that as they explained to me were harder to understand the way the other people explained them. After I helped with the class I got to go back up and do some paper work and organizing for one of the people over the education department at the center. My high point of the day was when I talked a stubborn and lazy man into doing his math problems and helped another man figure out how to round up. My low point of the day was when I saw the appreciation dinner that the mission had for us and all I could think of was that I’d rather the men at the mission had gotten it because I could afford to buy my own food, I appreciated it and it was nice but I felt guilty eating it. My story of the day was when a man walked in and talked to one of the girls and gave her a picture with a saying on the back and then prayed for all of us in the room I really appreciated it. While I was in the room filing stuff and doing stuff the man we were doing it for talked to us about how he used to be on drugs really bad and how he was in college now and working at the program it was a very real example of how the program could turn someone’s life around so well. He encouraged us to join the other trip concord students are going on in april and said that he and one of his friends tried it for one night and ended up sleeping in a slide in a park. Oh and another funny story I wanted to share was that on our way home Jesse about hit three homeless looking people who tried to run across the road and we all joked about him going home from a service trip to help the homeless to admit that he had ran over three of them while there. This trip was an excellent way for me to have a fun rewarding experience over my break and I really appreciate that I got to come here and meet all of the wonderful people that we have worked with here in Nashville.
KaylaGreen
Kayla Green
Today we went to the Music City Mission which was ran by the church next door. They handed out free clothes and food to people who needed it. They were very organized and when we arrived had jobs for all of us lined up to do. They were organizing clothes, and food, and cleaning up outside. At the beginning I was helping to wash out the trash cans and recycle bins, and then I cleaned up trash in the yard and raked up leaves. My low point of the day came when I was helping to organize the clothes and after the head of the Mission told me I couldn’t let people look through the clothes I was organizing a woman kept asking to look at the baby clothes, I’m not someone who usually tells people no they can’t do something so it was really hard to tell her that I couldn’t let her. My high point of today was when I was able to compile an email list of all the past volunteers for the mission and got to see they amount of other people willing to help. A lot of the people who came to the mission for help today spoke Spanish and I got to watch one of my friends who had taken Spanish class interact with them and get to help a little girl find something that she wanted. My random story was when we were at mall later tonight and one of our groups saw some of the people who visited there in newer nicer clothes looking better and with lots of shopping bags it just shows that some people will take advantage of good programs just to get more. The fact that small of a church had the initiative to do something on such a scale gave me a real respect for them. They were very organized and seemed to be very efficient with very little waste compared to the other programs we visited it might have been because it was smaller but I believe that it also said something about the level of leadership that was present. They said that they provided food and clothing for a lot of people who were illegal immigrants and I found that interesting cause I always pictured that illegal immigrants to be something that happened mainly near the coasts and not a lot inland.
Today we went to the Music City Mission which was ran by the church next door. They handed out free clothes and food to people who needed it. They were very organized and when we arrived had jobs for all of us lined up to do. They were organizing clothes, and food, and cleaning up outside. At the beginning I was helping to wash out the trash cans and recycle bins, and then I cleaned up trash in the yard and raked up leaves. My low point of the day came when I was helping to organize the clothes and after the head of the Mission told me I couldn’t let people look through the clothes I was organizing a woman kept asking to look at the baby clothes, I’m not someone who usually tells people no they can’t do something so it was really hard to tell her that I couldn’t let her. My high point of today was when I was able to compile an email list of all the past volunteers for the mission and got to see they amount of other people willing to help. A lot of the people who came to the mission for help today spoke Spanish and I got to watch one of my friends who had taken Spanish class interact with them and get to help a little girl find something that she wanted. My random story was when we were at mall later tonight and one of our groups saw some of the people who visited there in newer nicer clothes looking better and with lots of shopping bags it just shows that some people will take advantage of good programs just to get more. The fact that small of a church had the initiative to do something on such a scale gave me a real respect for them. They were very organized and seemed to be very efficient with very little waste compared to the other programs we visited it might have been because it was smaller but I believe that it also said something about the level of leadership that was present. They said that they provided food and clothing for a lot of people who were illegal immigrants and I found that interesting cause I always pictured that illegal immigrants to be something that happened mainly near the coasts and not a lot inland.
KaylaGreen
Kayla Green
Today we worked at the Nashville Rescue Mission and I had a good time. Unlike some of the volunteers who had to go down to the basement to organize and didn’t get much interactions with the participants I got to go up to a classroom and interact with the men of the Mission. I was in a math class room for men trying to build up their knowledge high enough to get their GEDs and I helped them work out problems that they had trouble with. The men in the class were very nice but took a few minutes to work up the courage to ask for help. My highlight was when this huge man who looked like he could break me was needing help and said when I went to sit down “you can move my puppy dog folder” it ticked me pink lol and kinda made me see him a different light. My down moment of the day was when I was put in the basement because classes were over and all I had to do was fold boxes up or blankets. My story of the day was when one of the guys from the class the same one as the puppy dog folder decided that when there was a break he was going to go out and smoke and tried to convince me that smoking was good for him and that it would turn his insides black to match his outside. Another story I’d like to share that made me sad was when a black man passed by us as we were on our way to the movie night at the center for human development and told us that we needed to “watch out for those monkeys that all black people were monkeys including him”, that kind of talk from anyone let alone about themselves is something that just kind of bothers me because it not only shows a general lack of respect for other but also for themselves. Another high part in my day and one that I was extremely grateful for was when one of the men in the class I was in stood up to pray and thanked me and the other person in the classroom for coming out to help them, and the fact that other people throughout the day took the time to genially thank us for coming out made me feel like I was really making a difference no matter how small.
Today we worked at the Nashville Rescue Mission and I had a good time. Unlike some of the volunteers who had to go down to the basement to organize and didn’t get much interactions with the participants I got to go up to a classroom and interact with the men of the Mission. I was in a math class room for men trying to build up their knowledge high enough to get their GEDs and I helped them work out problems that they had trouble with. The men in the class were very nice but took a few minutes to work up the courage to ask for help. My highlight was when this huge man who looked like he could break me was needing help and said when I went to sit down “you can move my puppy dog folder” it ticked me pink lol and kinda made me see him a different light. My down moment of the day was when I was put in the basement because classes were over and all I had to do was fold boxes up or blankets. My story of the day was when one of the guys from the class the same one as the puppy dog folder decided that when there was a break he was going to go out and smoke and tried to convince me that smoking was good for him and that it would turn his insides black to match his outside. Another story I’d like to share that made me sad was when a black man passed by us as we were on our way to the movie night at the center for human development and told us that we needed to “watch out for those monkeys that all black people were monkeys including him”, that kind of talk from anyone let alone about themselves is something that just kind of bothers me because it not only shows a general lack of respect for other but also for themselves. Another high part in my day and one that I was extremely grateful for was when one of the men in the class I was in stood up to pray and thanked me and the other person in the classroom for coming out to help them, and the fact that other people throughout the day took the time to genially thank us for coming out made me feel like I was really making a difference no matter how small.
JonathanWilliams
Jonathan Williams
Reflection for Nashville ASB
March 10 2009
Our group arrived at the Campus for human development 8:00 am .Wendy the director for the participants took the group on a tour of the campus. On the floor there is a day room were the homeless meet from 6:30 to 7:30 for showers. The showers take in about 100 people every morning Monday thru Friday. There is also a mailroom were the participants of the pre-odyssey program can receive mail from family members and employers. The program is for participants to learn to find a job and to develop the skills to be successful in everyday life. There are G.E.D classes to give the people the ability to fill-out job applications. In the odyssey program there are about 75 participants living on campus some are required to get a full-time job and stay clean from addiction for seven months. The campus offers a safe house for intoxicated homeless arrested instead of the officers taken them to jail. Chapel offered m to allow god into their hearts and live in a more positive state.” Through the power of spirituality and the practice of love ,the Campus for Human Development provides hospitality with respect that offers hope in a community of non-violence.” This quote is the campus’ mission statement they believe the seven core values Spirituality, Love, Hospitality, Respect, Hope and a community of non-violence the goals can and will be met. The work started after the tour our group painted bathrooms, shelves for storage and cleared brush from a fence line.
Reflection for Nashville ASB
March 10 2009
Our group arrived at the Campus for human development 8:00 am .Wendy the director for the participants took the group on a tour of the campus. On the floor there is a day room were the homeless meet from 6:30 to 7:30 for showers. The showers take in about 100 people every morning Monday thru Friday. There is also a mailroom were the participants of the pre-odyssey program can receive mail from family members and employers. The program is for participants to learn to find a job and to develop the skills to be successful in everyday life. There are G.E.D classes to give the people the ability to fill-out job applications. In the odyssey program there are about 75 participants living on campus some are required to get a full-time job and stay clean from addiction for seven months. The campus offers a safe house for intoxicated homeless arrested instead of the officers taken them to jail. Chapel offered m to allow god into their hearts and live in a more positive state.” Through the power of spirituality and the practice of love ,the Campus for Human Development provides hospitality with respect that offers hope in a community of non-violence.” This quote is the campus’ mission statement they believe the seven core values Spirituality, Love, Hospitality, Respect, Hope and a community of non-violence the goals can and will be met. The work started after the tour our group painted bathrooms, shelves for storage and cleared brush from a fence line.
AnneEndres
Anne Endres
Dr. Sally Campbell
PSY 350
7 March 2009
Alternative Spring Break
I have volunteered at different agencies aimed at helping the less fortunate around my hometown of Charleston, West Virginia, but none of my prior experiences compared to that which I experienced today. We arrived at the Campus for Human Development in Nashville, Tennessee, around 7:30AM and began working shortly after Wendy, one of the directors, gave us a tour of the facility. Wow, was it a large facility! During our tour I learned that there are numerous programs designed to help people on several levels. These people, more specifically, participants, are encouraged to participate in classes such as writing, literature, art, spirituality, and drugs and alcohol awareness that are scheduled throughout the weekdays. Additionally, the participants are awarded points based on different aspects. The encouragement of the people to participate was evident today, although there were no scheduled classes since it is the weekend. I was amazed at the art displayed throughout the campus – each work of art has been accomplished by the participants! It was nice to see how the participants are applying their newly learned skills.
Today I learned a few things. First, I learned that many of the participants at this agency are men, and many of whom suffer chronic homelessness. Second, I learned the true definition of chronic homelessness – it is defined by having been homeless for at least one year, or by having been homeless at least three times in the past four years. Third, I learned that my perception of homeless people caused me to be almost fearful of working with them – when our van pulled up through the alley and entered the parking lot of the campus, we were almost all kind of frantic and worried what we should do with our (valuable) belongings. However, after meeting some people at the campus and learning more about things going on, my stereotypical fears disappeared and I began to realize how much of an eye-opening experience this week would be.
I wasn’t sure what to expect food-wise, either. We went to the Nashville Rescue Mission for lunch, and it was really crowded with participants. Sill being a bit fearful of what was on my plate, I just sampled a little bit of everything. I felt bad doing this, but at the same time I was prepared; I stashed a few granola bars in my pockets. I also felt bad for wasting this food, but maybe tomorrow will bring different food. Overall, I am happy to be here and eager to help many homeless people in Nashville.
Dr. Sally Campbell
PSY 350
7 March 2009
Alternative Spring Break
I have volunteered at different agencies aimed at helping the less fortunate around my hometown of Charleston, West Virginia, but none of my prior experiences compared to that which I experienced today. We arrived at the Campus for Human Development in Nashville, Tennessee, around 7:30AM and began working shortly after Wendy, one of the directors, gave us a tour of the facility. Wow, was it a large facility! During our tour I learned that there are numerous programs designed to help people on several levels. These people, more specifically, participants, are encouraged to participate in classes such as writing, literature, art, spirituality, and drugs and alcohol awareness that are scheduled throughout the weekdays. Additionally, the participants are awarded points based on different aspects. The encouragement of the people to participate was evident today, although there were no scheduled classes since it is the weekend. I was amazed at the art displayed throughout the campus – each work of art has been accomplished by the participants! It was nice to see how the participants are applying their newly learned skills.
Today I learned a few things. First, I learned that many of the participants at this agency are men, and many of whom suffer chronic homelessness. Second, I learned the true definition of chronic homelessness – it is defined by having been homeless for at least one year, or by having been homeless at least three times in the past four years. Third, I learned that my perception of homeless people caused me to be almost fearful of working with them – when our van pulled up through the alley and entered the parking lot of the campus, we were almost all kind of frantic and worried what we should do with our (valuable) belongings. However, after meeting some people at the campus and learning more about things going on, my stereotypical fears disappeared and I began to realize how much of an eye-opening experience this week would be.
I wasn’t sure what to expect food-wise, either. We went to the Nashville Rescue Mission for lunch, and it was really crowded with participants. Sill being a bit fearful of what was on my plate, I just sampled a little bit of everything. I felt bad doing this, but at the same time I was prepared; I stashed a few granola bars in my pockets. I also felt bad for wasting this food, but maybe tomorrow will bring different food. Overall, I am happy to be here and eager to help many homeless people in Nashville.
AnneEndres
Anne Endres
Wednesday March 11, 2009
Today we worked at the Nashville Rescue Mission – for my group this was our second day here, and for the other group it was their third day. I am happy to be in the group that travels to other places more frequently. In addition to helping at the Nashville Rescue Mission, we have volunteered at The Campus for Human Development and the Music City Mission. It seems like the other CU group is almost stationed at the Nashville Rescue Mission. I enjoy helping at all three places, but my time spent at the Music City Mission was one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. I think it helped because I was able to interact with the Spanish mothers and children. This morning at the NRM I was able to interact with the male participants who are studying to take the GED exam. I helped teach English, and we more or less focused on the reading comprehension branch of English. I was assigned to help one male student who seemed to be not much older than me; he may be in his early twenties. We read passages and then answered questions about each passage. It was sad to realize the level of the passages we read were pretty simple, and that a man this age was struggling to read such passages. However, it was rewarding to be able to help him gain a better understanding of certain words and phrases throughout the passages. At times we took breathers from reading and I tried to teach him some grammar skills. I focused on trying to deter him from saying ‘ain’t’ and tried to do so in a friendly manner. Also, I asked him if he knew any Spanish words and I taught him some basic Spanish language and grammar. I think he enjoyed taking these few small breaks from reading to do some learning in other areas of grammar and language.
It was almost difficult to parallel the lives of two people around the same age. My student told me that he is going through the GED program for the second time, but I did not ask for any details. I don’t really know how to describe it, but I have been blessed with so many things that I sometimes take for granted, such as a proper education. It struck me this morning how valuable a K-12 education is, and I can almost assume that the student I helped today did not receive such. I really hope he gets back on track and obtains his GED, because I’m sure job opportunities will arise and he will really be able to turn his life around.
This morning it displeased me when the students I helped teach took a fifteen minute smoke break. I know smoking habits are probably hard to break because of the attached addiction, but they should still try to wean themselves away from smoking. It makes me wonder if the NRM has any classes on smoking awareness and the effects of drugs and alcohol. I remember Wendy, one of the directors at the Campus for Human Development, telling us about the variety of classes for the participants, such as drug prevention.
In addition to being able to teach, it was rewarding to be fed a feast this afternoon at NRM. Billy, one of the men who successfully completed the turnaround program, showed his true appreciation for the CU volunteers. In a way I felt bad for being able to eat this delicious and extremely well-prepared food while the homeless men were eating fractions of this food downstairs.
Wednesday March 11, 2009
Today we worked at the Nashville Rescue Mission – for my group this was our second day here, and for the other group it was their third day. I am happy to be in the group that travels to other places more frequently. In addition to helping at the Nashville Rescue Mission, we have volunteered at The Campus for Human Development and the Music City Mission. It seems like the other CU group is almost stationed at the Nashville Rescue Mission. I enjoy helping at all three places, but my time spent at the Music City Mission was one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. I think it helped because I was able to interact with the Spanish mothers and children. This morning at the NRM I was able to interact with the male participants who are studying to take the GED exam. I helped teach English, and we more or less focused on the reading comprehension branch of English. I was assigned to help one male student who seemed to be not much older than me; he may be in his early twenties. We read passages and then answered questions about each passage. It was sad to realize the level of the passages we read were pretty simple, and that a man this age was struggling to read such passages. However, it was rewarding to be able to help him gain a better understanding of certain words and phrases throughout the passages. At times we took breathers from reading and I tried to teach him some grammar skills. I focused on trying to deter him from saying ‘ain’t’ and tried to do so in a friendly manner. Also, I asked him if he knew any Spanish words and I taught him some basic Spanish language and grammar. I think he enjoyed taking these few small breaks from reading to do some learning in other areas of grammar and language.
It was almost difficult to parallel the lives of two people around the same age. My student told me that he is going through the GED program for the second time, but I did not ask for any details. I don’t really know how to describe it, but I have been blessed with so many things that I sometimes take for granted, such as a proper education. It struck me this morning how valuable a K-12 education is, and I can almost assume that the student I helped today did not receive such. I really hope he gets back on track and obtains his GED, because I’m sure job opportunities will arise and he will really be able to turn his life around.
This morning it displeased me when the students I helped teach took a fifteen minute smoke break. I know smoking habits are probably hard to break because of the attached addiction, but they should still try to wean themselves away from smoking. It makes me wonder if the NRM has any classes on smoking awareness and the effects of drugs and alcohol. I remember Wendy, one of the directors at the Campus for Human Development, telling us about the variety of classes for the participants, such as drug prevention.
In addition to being able to teach, it was rewarding to be fed a feast this afternoon at NRM. Billy, one of the men who successfully completed the turnaround program, showed his true appreciation for the CU volunteers. In a way I felt bad for being able to eat this delicious and extremely well-prepared food while the homeless men were eating fractions of this food downstairs.
AnneEndres
Anne Endres
Tuesday 3/10/09
Today we spent the day at Music City Mission in Nashville. So far, today has been my favorite work day, and there are a few reasons why. Music City Mission is located in the Spanish district of Nashville, or at least it seems to be. When we drove to and from lunch (we got to go to CiCi’s Pizza!) we passed many buildings with Spanish titles – these included restaurants, Laundromats, and clothing shops. The Mission is right next door to a Nazarene church, where a retired pastor ministered; his son now ministers. They opened up this shelter next door in a building that used to be a church. This facility is the cleanest and best kept one that we have volunteered in all week. I think the cleaner environment created a more positive atmosphere for many people in the group, myself included. I spent the morning in an upstairs room with Ginny folding and sorting sheets, pillows, pillowcases, etc. Many of the sheets were in good condition and we threw out any that were not in acceptable condition and that were stained. After we finished upstairs, we shifted downstairs and helped various people with their duties. Little did I know that one of the most rewarding moments of my life was soon to take place.
Upon greeting a few of the women and children who came to the shelter in need of food or clothing, I immediately noticed how much Spanish was being spoken, and this observation tickled me pink. I began speaking to the mothers in Spanish, and then with their permission started talking to the small children in their native language. Soon after playing with and speaking to two small girls, one of the mothers asked me if I could help her. She led me over to a table where one of the Caucasian gentlemen who were in charge of the facility was stationed. He spoke no Spanish, and the Spanish woman understood little English. The problem at hand was that one of the Spanish women’s friends, who stood almost hesitantly behind her, wanted some diapers for her baby boy. It was confusing because the more outgoing Spanish woman kept saying “Numero uno, numero uno!” and the man in charge falsely understood that they wanted one diaper. Instead, the woman was requesting size one diapers for her shyer friend’s son. The man kept asking in English things like, “Where’s the boy? How old is he? Do you have any other children?” My Spanish knowledge helped me facilitate this transaction by interpreting and translating from English to Spanish and vice versa. This was the first of several translating encounters that took place today.
After the diaper situation was figured out, I explored the facility and discovered two more Spanish mothers and their children browsing through the clothing sections. This was where another rewarding experience would take place. One mother acknowledged me and we began chatting in Spanish. After realizing I spoke fairly fluently, she introduced me to her two-year-old daughter, Adellin (Spanish version of Adeline). Adellin and I began interacting and picking out what clothes and accessories she liked. Her mother realized what we were doing and asked if I could help them find a pair of shoes for her daughter, since tomorrow is her third birthday. I gladly accepted the invitation to help these people and apply my Spanish-speaking skills and began sorting through shoes. Grace noticed what I was doing and began looking for ‘Talla siete,’ or size seven. We found a pair of bright red rain boots with ladybug faces. Boy, was Adellin impressed! I helped her take her sandals off and put these boots on, all the while trying to talk to her in Spanish. Her mother was ever so pleased that we had found these ‘botas’ in the correct ‘talla’ and graciously thanked us. She and he friend then asked me details about the volunteer group such as where we are from, if many others speak Spanish, and if we were paid for our work. I later found out that she was born in Mexico, and the first woman was from El Salvador. I told both of them my plans to study abroad in the future.
It was so rewarding that I could help these women and children obtain necessities like diapers and the birthday present for Adellin. I do not know any details of how these families are doing financially, but the fact that they came here to this church to get these things shows that they may be suffering in some way. Nevertheless, the look on Adellin’s face when she saw the boots and realized that they fit was priceless, and I really appreciated being a part of this success. Today I enjoyed applying my Spanish skills in order to help the less fortunate obtain things that sometimes I take for granted.
Today was great; I’m sure I’ve already made that clear. The best part of the day was being able to help the Spanish mothers and their children. Another nice thing about today was that we were treated to lunch at CiCi’s Pizza.
The majority of the day went extremely well and parts were really rewarding. I think many of the other CU volunteers felt the same way. However, throughout the day I noticed that some students were sitting, texting, and not really contributing to the group work effort. It was frustrating to know that while many students were putting in effort to help the less fortunate and took a reasonable amount of breaks, others joked around and took lots of breaks. The past few days I’ve kept these thoughts to myself, but they’re beginning to build up. Tomorrow’s our last day at work, and we’re returning to the Nashville Rescue Mission.
Tuesday 3/10/09
Today we spent the day at Music City Mission in Nashville. So far, today has been my favorite work day, and there are a few reasons why. Music City Mission is located in the Spanish district of Nashville, or at least it seems to be. When we drove to and from lunch (we got to go to CiCi’s Pizza!) we passed many buildings with Spanish titles – these included restaurants, Laundromats, and clothing shops. The Mission is right next door to a Nazarene church, where a retired pastor ministered; his son now ministers. They opened up this shelter next door in a building that used to be a church. This facility is the cleanest and best kept one that we have volunteered in all week. I think the cleaner environment created a more positive atmosphere for many people in the group, myself included. I spent the morning in an upstairs room with Ginny folding and sorting sheets, pillows, pillowcases, etc. Many of the sheets were in good condition and we threw out any that were not in acceptable condition and that were stained. After we finished upstairs, we shifted downstairs and helped various people with their duties. Little did I know that one of the most rewarding moments of my life was soon to take place.
Upon greeting a few of the women and children who came to the shelter in need of food or clothing, I immediately noticed how much Spanish was being spoken, and this observation tickled me pink. I began speaking to the mothers in Spanish, and then with their permission started talking to the small children in their native language. Soon after playing with and speaking to two small girls, one of the mothers asked me if I could help her. She led me over to a table where one of the Caucasian gentlemen who were in charge of the facility was stationed. He spoke no Spanish, and the Spanish woman understood little English. The problem at hand was that one of the Spanish women’s friends, who stood almost hesitantly behind her, wanted some diapers for her baby boy. It was confusing because the more outgoing Spanish woman kept saying “Numero uno, numero uno!” and the man in charge falsely understood that they wanted one diaper. Instead, the woman was requesting size one diapers for her shyer friend’s son. The man kept asking in English things like, “Where’s the boy? How old is he? Do you have any other children?” My Spanish knowledge helped me facilitate this transaction by interpreting and translating from English to Spanish and vice versa. This was the first of several translating encounters that took place today.
After the diaper situation was figured out, I explored the facility and discovered two more Spanish mothers and their children browsing through the clothing sections. This was where another rewarding experience would take place. One mother acknowledged me and we began chatting in Spanish. After realizing I spoke fairly fluently, she introduced me to her two-year-old daughter, Adellin (Spanish version of Adeline). Adellin and I began interacting and picking out what clothes and accessories she liked. Her mother realized what we were doing and asked if I could help them find a pair of shoes for her daughter, since tomorrow is her third birthday. I gladly accepted the invitation to help these people and apply my Spanish-speaking skills and began sorting through shoes. Grace noticed what I was doing and began looking for ‘Talla siete,’ or size seven. We found a pair of bright red rain boots with ladybug faces. Boy, was Adellin impressed! I helped her take her sandals off and put these boots on, all the while trying to talk to her in Spanish. Her mother was ever so pleased that we had found these ‘botas’ in the correct ‘talla’ and graciously thanked us. She and he friend then asked me details about the volunteer group such as where we are from, if many others speak Spanish, and if we were paid for our work. I later found out that she was born in Mexico, and the first woman was from El Salvador. I told both of them my plans to study abroad in the future.
It was so rewarding that I could help these women and children obtain necessities like diapers and the birthday present for Adellin. I do not know any details of how these families are doing financially, but the fact that they came here to this church to get these things shows that they may be suffering in some way. Nevertheless, the look on Adellin’s face when she saw the boots and realized that they fit was priceless, and I really appreciated being a part of this success. Today I enjoyed applying my Spanish skills in order to help the less fortunate obtain things that sometimes I take for granted.
Today was great; I’m sure I’ve already made that clear. The best part of the day was being able to help the Spanish mothers and their children. Another nice thing about today was that we were treated to lunch at CiCi’s Pizza.
The majority of the day went extremely well and parts were really rewarding. I think many of the other CU volunteers felt the same way. However, throughout the day I noticed that some students were sitting, texting, and not really contributing to the group work effort. It was frustrating to know that while many students were putting in effort to help the less fortunate and took a reasonable amount of breaks, others joked around and took lots of breaks. The past few days I’ve kept these thoughts to myself, but they’re beginning to build up. Tomorrow’s our last day at work, and we’re returning to the Nashville Rescue Mission.
Friday, March 13, 2009
StephenReed
Today was the last day of our volunteer service. We went to Nashville Rescue Mission again which has been my favorite place to help out. The group that I was in went down to the Basement where they store most of there donations that they receive that has to be sorted before they can give them out. We sorted and sorted rest of the stuff that we had worked on for the 3 days that we had been there earlier in the week. After lunch we met up with Brother Thomas again who is always a happy go lucky kind of guy. He sent us out on more work which is what we were sent here to do. Im so glad we were of service to these nice mean though im sure that lots of the girls in our group would like to have worked in the womens center. We worked on folding sheets trying to fix the miss communitcation we had earlier in the week. With so many things going on at the same time from time to time people make mistakes but you can’t get upset when it happens for if you do you won’t get anything done. I must say this trip has been good on most of the people though there were some that don’t seem to have come on the trip for the right reasons but I suppose you will always have a few of them on a trip. At the end of our evening with NRM they did something special for us which blessed us all. Im sure most of us didn’t do this type of work for thank you’s or for pats on the back but when they do happen its nice to get them.. They fixed us a nice dinner with lots of food from shrimp to chicken. We all enjoyed it and filled our stomachs up though a few of us felt bad cause we were getting some really nice food and the people that don’t get lots of food weren’t getting that type of food. Oh and by the way in my first paper I wrote that I met a guy named Pittman well we found out it was his birthday and wished him a happy birthday he just turned 37. He told us that we blessed his heart and hopes that we come back. I do hope I get to come back and help out for if you give your time you will fill good about yourself and make peoples lives better. Im so glad I came and I thank all who made this trip possible. Thank you all!!!!
NicoleDuvall
Tuesday, March 9, 2009
Today we got to sleep in a little longer and then it was off to the Campus for Human Development, which isn’t too far from the Nashville Rescue Mission. Luckily, the weather was nice today- no too hot, not too cold. When we got there we met, Ms. Wendy, who is, I guess the director of the Campus. She seemed very friendly and eager to have us help work around the campus. First, she gave us a tour around the building, which looked a little rough on the outside but was actually pretty nice on the inside. It seemed to be a happier place to me than the Rescue Mission, which, don’t get me wrong, is a really nice place, but Campus seemed to have more life to it and activities for its participants. Ms. Wendy said that everyone that walks through the front doors has to have respect for everyone otherwise, there will be problems. Later on in the day when we were working outside, we saw a little quarrel break out between two male participants- I don’t know what was going on-just saw one spit on the other and then Ms. Wendy went over to investigate and they immediately backed off. It seems to me that she has a very good influence over the participants of the campus and that they look up to her-like a mentor.
My job for the day was to help clear out a building that had survived a fire but it’s contents were pretty messed up. I had to throw away a lot of canned foods that were old and in the fire about a year ago. I also cleaned up some scrap that was laying around. When I took the canned garbage over to the dumpster, a gentlemen asked me why I was throwing it away; that we should donate it to a food bank or something. I told him that I was told to throw it away; that the food was not good for anyone to eat. Later on when I came back, I saw him digging through the dumpster, picking various canned items out. I guess he was desperate, but I hope that he doesn’t get sick-I did tell Ms. Wendy about it. She said that was normal behavior of his.
Later on after lunch I went outside again to help clean out the shed and clean up dirty laundry baskets and after that I went inside to help paint cubby holes different colors for the participants to put their belongings in. it was definitely harder than I thought it was going to be. I learned that I am a terrible painter. I noticed that Campus didn’t have security outside at all but inside, it seemed like their was a gazillon doors and they all were locked-as safety measures-which made me feel kinda weird, like a was trapped and had no way out. Later I realized it was for everyone’s own safety, because you just don’t know what someone is capable of doing to hurt someone else, even though Campus is a very peaceful-non violent facility. I also learned that both these programs help people out in different ways but I’ m glad that Nashville has both The Mission and The Campus to help the homeless find a way to get back on their feet and into a normal life.
Today we got to sleep in a little longer and then it was off to the Campus for Human Development, which isn’t too far from the Nashville Rescue Mission. Luckily, the weather was nice today- no too hot, not too cold. When we got there we met, Ms. Wendy, who is, I guess the director of the Campus. She seemed very friendly and eager to have us help work around the campus. First, she gave us a tour around the building, which looked a little rough on the outside but was actually pretty nice on the inside. It seemed to be a happier place to me than the Rescue Mission, which, don’t get me wrong, is a really nice place, but Campus seemed to have more life to it and activities for its participants. Ms. Wendy said that everyone that walks through the front doors has to have respect for everyone otherwise, there will be problems. Later on in the day when we were working outside, we saw a little quarrel break out between two male participants- I don’t know what was going on-just saw one spit on the other and then Ms. Wendy went over to investigate and they immediately backed off. It seems to me that she has a very good influence over the participants of the campus and that they look up to her-like a mentor.
My job for the day was to help clear out a building that had survived a fire but it’s contents were pretty messed up. I had to throw away a lot of canned foods that were old and in the fire about a year ago. I also cleaned up some scrap that was laying around. When I took the canned garbage over to the dumpster, a gentlemen asked me why I was throwing it away; that we should donate it to a food bank or something. I told him that I was told to throw it away; that the food was not good for anyone to eat. Later on when I came back, I saw him digging through the dumpster, picking various canned items out. I guess he was desperate, but I hope that he doesn’t get sick-I did tell Ms. Wendy about it. She said that was normal behavior of his.
Later on after lunch I went outside again to help clean out the shed and clean up dirty laundry baskets and after that I went inside to help paint cubby holes different colors for the participants to put their belongings in. it was definitely harder than I thought it was going to be. I learned that I am a terrible painter. I noticed that Campus didn’t have security outside at all but inside, it seemed like their was a gazillon doors and they all were locked-as safety measures-which made me feel kinda weird, like a was trapped and had no way out. Later I realized it was for everyone’s own safety, because you just don’t know what someone is capable of doing to hurt someone else, even though Campus is a very peaceful-non violent facility. I also learned that both these programs help people out in different ways but I’ m glad that Nashville has both The Mission and The Campus to help the homeless find a way to get back on their feet and into a normal life.
StephenReed
So today we were at the Campus for Human Development. It was a little different from the other shelter we have been to. We first met Wendy the director of the Campus; she took us on a tour of the grounds. She showed us all that the Campus has to offer, from classes to living areas. Once we finished with the tour we went off into different groups to help out around the Campus from improving the outside to finishing some of the projects she had the other group start. In our group we worked on painting the bathrooms that so desperately needed some touch ups. While we worked there were all kinds of people coming in and out of the Campus. While we were working on the bathrooms we kind of took up some space in the hallway when an older gentlemen came down the hallway with a guide helping him navigate the mess we had made. The man that was his guide told us that he couldn’t see well so we cleared the way so he wouldn’t trip so he could get into the laundry room they have for them there. We went back to working and had some stuff strung out in the hallway yet again so when he came out of the laundry room I stopped what I was doing so I could guide him through. He was a nice guy and thanked us for all the work we were doing. Then again a few of the gentlemen there thanked us for our time. I don’t think I have done that much work but I still have gotten a lot of thank you’s. I guess though it is a lot of work considering that they don’t have a lot of people that do work around the shelter without them having to pay them. I think people should give more of their time I mean if a person gave an hour of their time from time to time it would make the world a better place. Which is why I think people like us are here. We give up our time to show other people that there are kinds of people out there so perhaps they will do something nice for there community when people from another state come and give of theie time making there place a better place.
NicoleDuvall
Today we started early and we went back over to the Nashville Mission to volunteer our services. I was real excited today because we were able to choose where we wanted to work-basement, kitchen, folding clothes, etc. I chose to work in the kitchen because I really wanted to help serve and I figured that would be a good opportunity to talk one on one with the mission’s program participants. I didn’t get a chance to work on the serving line but I did get to help get desserts ready and chop up some ham. It was fun, but still kind of tiring but I was definitely more exhausted yesterday working in the basement.
While I was picking up trays in the dining area, a gentlemen by the name of Mike, asked me if I would mind getting him a cup of ice and I told him that sure, I didn’t mind and then he asked for some water. He seemed really friendly and was asking me what brought me to TN. I told him that we were a group of college students, my major, and a few other facts about me. Then, what I found really interesting was that when I got ready to leave, he said “Pleas don’t leave me,” and I just immediately sat back down. Sitting across from us was a middle aged guy who was just talking nonstop… to himself… Mike said that he does that just to get attention and that I shouldn’t feel uncomfortable, because I guess it was obvious that I looked a little uncomfortable. Then he told me a little bit about his life, that he had a son that he hadn’t seen in a while and that he has been in the program for a couple months trying to get his life back on track. He also said that the Mission has really helped him come through a lot of hard times.
I also talked to another guy named Willie also. He told us that he had a son and a daughter back in Alabama and that he missed them greatly but doesn’t want to go back until he gets his life turned back around- he had a drug problem evidently- I didn’t want to ask too much. He seemed to know a lot of people for having had been there since December 2008. I almost cried when he was telling us that he had lost his wife, mother, and father last year and it just sent him into a downward spiral. I really almost cried-it was very depressing-I get so emotional. That is one thing that I ‘m really worried about-is just breaking down and bawling-so far, I’ve been able to control myself.
Later on I went back downstairs and sorted through shampoo and different hygiene products. There is endless stuff to sort through downstairs and we certainly made a dent, but most of the day I spent upstairs.
In the evening we went over to the Campus for Human Development-which was the first time for me- for game/movie/pizza night. I played a Pictionary sort of game while others watched Stomp the Yard. The campus definitely was definitely not as nice as the mission-building wise. We really didn’t get to interact with some of the people but Ms. Wendy seemed pretty nice. I’m a little nervous about tomorrow thought, because I hear she is a little rough and demanding. Hopefully tomorrow will be fun and we will get to meet some really cool people.
While I was picking up trays in the dining area, a gentlemen by the name of Mike, asked me if I would mind getting him a cup of ice and I told him that sure, I didn’t mind and then he asked for some water. He seemed really friendly and was asking me what brought me to TN. I told him that we were a group of college students, my major, and a few other facts about me. Then, what I found really interesting was that when I got ready to leave, he said “Pleas don’t leave me,” and I just immediately sat back down. Sitting across from us was a middle aged guy who was just talking nonstop… to himself… Mike said that he does that just to get attention and that I shouldn’t feel uncomfortable, because I guess it was obvious that I looked a little uncomfortable. Then he told me a little bit about his life, that he had a son that he hadn’t seen in a while and that he has been in the program for a couple months trying to get his life back on track. He also said that the Mission has really helped him come through a lot of hard times.
I also talked to another guy named Willie also. He told us that he had a son and a daughter back in Alabama and that he missed them greatly but doesn’t want to go back until he gets his life turned back around- he had a drug problem evidently- I didn’t want to ask too much. He seemed to know a lot of people for having had been there since December 2008. I almost cried when he was telling us that he had lost his wife, mother, and father last year and it just sent him into a downward spiral. I really almost cried-it was very depressing-I get so emotional. That is one thing that I ‘m really worried about-is just breaking down and bawling-so far, I’ve been able to control myself.
Later on I went back downstairs and sorted through shampoo and different hygiene products. There is endless stuff to sort through downstairs and we certainly made a dent, but most of the day I spent upstairs.
In the evening we went over to the Campus for Human Development-which was the first time for me- for game/movie/pizza night. I played a Pictionary sort of game while others watched Stomp the Yard. The campus definitely was definitely not as nice as the mission-building wise. We really didn’t get to interact with some of the people but Ms. Wendy seemed pretty nice. I’m a little nervous about tomorrow thought, because I hear she is a little rough and demanding. Hopefully tomorrow will be fun and we will get to meet some really cool people.
TiffanyMcMahan
Tiffany McMahan
March 09, 2009
Today at the Nashville Mission we took a tour of the building. The dorms were very interesting because there were so many beds that were very close together. We were told that on an average night that almost all the beds if not all beds were full. We also got to help in the kitchen by doing the desserts and meats for the dinner. We got to see how much they cook for lunch and dinner. We also helped in the dinning hall with the homeless and the halfway residents. We had interaction with the homeless and halfway residents by helping take up their trays. We met a guy named Willie that had been there for 6 to 7 months after leaving Alabama (leaving behind his entire family) to kick a drug addiction. He told us how at one point he took so many drugs that he prayed to never wake up; then he went on to explain how the mission changed his life and that he had been passing all of the drug tests. This actually gave us insight into how they feel about the mission and how much appreciation they have for the mission. He expressed how thankful he was that we came to help during our spring break. Many of the residents were very appreciative of us giving up our spring break for volunteering.
Later tonight, we visited the Campus Center and got to watch a movie and play games. We got to see how different it was from the Mission and we also got to have interaction with our entire group. I think this was a good idea because we learned more about each other as a group, and it gave us time to get to know each other. This is important because the more we know about each other the better we will work together as a group; therefore, we will make more progress.
March 09, 2009
Today at the Nashville Mission we took a tour of the building. The dorms were very interesting because there were so many beds that were very close together. We were told that on an average night that almost all the beds if not all beds were full. We also got to help in the kitchen by doing the desserts and meats for the dinner. We got to see how much they cook for lunch and dinner. We also helped in the dinning hall with the homeless and the halfway residents. We had interaction with the homeless and halfway residents by helping take up their trays. We met a guy named Willie that had been there for 6 to 7 months after leaving Alabama (leaving behind his entire family) to kick a drug addiction. He told us how at one point he took so many drugs that he prayed to never wake up; then he went on to explain how the mission changed his life and that he had been passing all of the drug tests. This actually gave us insight into how they feel about the mission and how much appreciation they have for the mission. He expressed how thankful he was that we came to help during our spring break. Many of the residents were very appreciative of us giving up our spring break for volunteering.
Later tonight, we visited the Campus Center and got to watch a movie and play games. We got to see how different it was from the Mission and we also got to have interaction with our entire group. I think this was a good idea because we learned more about each other as a group, and it gave us time to get to know each other. This is important because the more we know about each other the better we will work together as a group; therefore, we will make more progress.
TiffanyMcMahan
Tiffany McMahan
March 11, 2009
Today was very sad because we all knew that it was our last day at the Mission. I worked down in the basement sorting items such as shampoo and conditioner. I also took many pictures of the staff and residents there, so that I would have some memory to take back with me. During lunch time there was another volunteer group there to help. After lunch some of the residents asked us if we would be coming back; since we wouldn’t be going back down to the dinning hall for dinner we all said our good byes and it was very sad for us.
I don’t think any of us expected what happened at the end of the day. We all were very tired from working and thought that we would just have our normal dinner in the dinning hall with the rest of the halfway residents. We did not expect the meal that they prepared for us. It was very well prepared and much appreciated. We all thanked them for the meal, and it made me very sad but yet happy at the same time. I knew that we made a huge impression at the Mission and our efforts really helped out, but it was also very sad because this was the end of our service.
When I got back to the room, it all kind of hit me; I became very sad because I got thinking that not many people especially students would give up their spring breaks to volunteer at homeless shelters. This trip really showed me how the homeless lives and what their lives are like. I never thought about many of the things that I seen on this trip. I think that this opened all of our eyes and taught us a lesson that none of us will forget. I would love to be able to do this type of service more often. Since we are all college students, I feel that this trip was a good experience for us because some of us if not all have never had to deal with such things and live in the conditions that they live in. I think the Mission, the Campus, and the homeless that were involved with our service volunteering really appreciated it.. We may not be able to see the impact we made, but I know that just the small things that we did made a huge impact of them. If only everyone took the time to do a small part in helping someone else then everyone in America would have a safe place to stay and a warm meal to eat.
March 11, 2009
Today was very sad because we all knew that it was our last day at the Mission. I worked down in the basement sorting items such as shampoo and conditioner. I also took many pictures of the staff and residents there, so that I would have some memory to take back with me. During lunch time there was another volunteer group there to help. After lunch some of the residents asked us if we would be coming back; since we wouldn’t be going back down to the dinning hall for dinner we all said our good byes and it was very sad for us.
I don’t think any of us expected what happened at the end of the day. We all were very tired from working and thought that we would just have our normal dinner in the dinning hall with the rest of the halfway residents. We did not expect the meal that they prepared for us. It was very well prepared and much appreciated. We all thanked them for the meal, and it made me very sad but yet happy at the same time. I knew that we made a huge impression at the Mission and our efforts really helped out, but it was also very sad because this was the end of our service.
When I got back to the room, it all kind of hit me; I became very sad because I got thinking that not many people especially students would give up their spring breaks to volunteer at homeless shelters. This trip really showed me how the homeless lives and what their lives are like. I never thought about many of the things that I seen on this trip. I think that this opened all of our eyes and taught us a lesson that none of us will forget. I would love to be able to do this type of service more often. Since we are all college students, I feel that this trip was a good experience for us because some of us if not all have never had to deal with such things and live in the conditions that they live in. I think the Mission, the Campus, and the homeless that were involved with our service volunteering really appreciated it.. We may not be able to see the impact we made, but I know that just the small things that we did made a huge impact of them. If only everyone took the time to do a small part in helping someone else then everyone in America would have a safe place to stay and a warm meal to eat.
NicoleDuvall
Today was our last day at the Nashville Rescue Mission and it was kinda sad. The people there were really nice and so appreciated all of our efforts and help. When we got there, a bunch of us went straight down to the basement again to sort canned food items and crushed boxes for a couple of hours.
During lunch we said “bye” to Pittman and wished him happy birthday –Willie told us because we asked where he was because we wanted to say goodbye. Stephen and I really liked him-he was really genuine and friendly. I hope things go well for him.
Later on, we moved over towards the shampoo, lotions , & toothpastes, (toiletries) etc. into boxes for the Mission to distribute to the participants. It seemed like a never-ending process, but we did make the area a lot neater and got rid of a lot of unnecessary stuff. There is still a lot of work to be done, but I am very proud of all the hard work we did. We definitely made a difference. It was fun too, working with everyone helped the time pass by faster.
Before we left, the people at the Mission decided to do something special for us- they served us a really nice dinner in a special conference like room. I don’t think any of us were expecting them to go to that extreme for us because we were there to help, not to earn food. I mean there are other people there who were more deserving of that food that we were. I was in Heaven-2 kinds of chicken! Can’t beat that! They even had dessert! I was really excited!
After that, we said our goodbyes and thank you’s and I’m pretty sure some people got a little teary eyed, since we did get pretty used to being there and they were very hospitable.
After we got back to the hotel, I took a nap and then it was off to the Bicentennial Park to at nighttime. It was a little dark, but still pretty and the Parthenon was gorgeous. After the park we went back Downtown and walked around the streets to do some sightseeing. It was really cold, but I’m glad I went because all the little shops are so neat. We even got serenaded by two gentlemen on the street playing the guitar. They were really talented. A few people gave them money and they were very appreciative, saying that it was going to go towards a hotel room, since the temperature was dropping.
I am definitely very thankful for the opportunity to come to Nashville to visit the Campus for Human Development and The Nashville Rescue Mission. I was glad to make a difference helping clean up as well as getting to meet new people and hear their stories. It really made me realize how lucky we all are and that when a group a people come together, a lot can be accomplished to help better others. I hope that the Bonner Program will be able to do this again next year. Even though I will have graduated, I think it was a very successful trip and that most people did enjoy making a difference. Thanks Jesse and Alex for making this trip possible, successful, and for keeping us safe! :)
During lunch we said “bye” to Pittman and wished him happy birthday –Willie told us because we asked where he was because we wanted to say goodbye. Stephen and I really liked him-he was really genuine and friendly. I hope things go well for him.
Later on, we moved over towards the shampoo, lotions , & toothpastes, (toiletries) etc. into boxes for the Mission to distribute to the participants. It seemed like a never-ending process, but we did make the area a lot neater and got rid of a lot of unnecessary stuff. There is still a lot of work to be done, but I am very proud of all the hard work we did. We definitely made a difference. It was fun too, working with everyone helped the time pass by faster.
Before we left, the people at the Mission decided to do something special for us- they served us a really nice dinner in a special conference like room. I don’t think any of us were expecting them to go to that extreme for us because we were there to help, not to earn food. I mean there are other people there who were more deserving of that food that we were. I was in Heaven-2 kinds of chicken! Can’t beat that! They even had dessert! I was really excited!
After that, we said our goodbyes and thank you’s and I’m pretty sure some people got a little teary eyed, since we did get pretty used to being there and they were very hospitable.
After we got back to the hotel, I took a nap and then it was off to the Bicentennial Park to at nighttime. It was a little dark, but still pretty and the Parthenon was gorgeous. After the park we went back Downtown and walked around the streets to do some sightseeing. It was really cold, but I’m glad I went because all the little shops are so neat. We even got serenaded by two gentlemen on the street playing the guitar. They were really talented. A few people gave them money and they were very appreciative, saying that it was going to go towards a hotel room, since the temperature was dropping.
I am definitely very thankful for the opportunity to come to Nashville to visit the Campus for Human Development and The Nashville Rescue Mission. I was glad to make a difference helping clean up as well as getting to meet new people and hear their stories. It really made me realize how lucky we all are and that when a group a people come together, a lot can be accomplished to help better others. I hope that the Bonner Program will be able to do this again next year. Even though I will have graduated, I think it was a very successful trip and that most people did enjoy making a difference. Thanks Jesse and Alex for making this trip possible, successful, and for keeping us safe! :)
TiffanyShaver
Tiffany Shaver
Dr. Campbell
3-11-09
Reflection Journal- Day Five
It is the last day we are working at the Nashville Rescue Mission and I have so many mixed emotions right now. I am sad that today is the last day because this has been one of the most rewarding weeks of my life yet I am happy because I know that I have made a difference this week. This week I have had the opportunity to work with two agencies, the Nashville Rescue Mission and the Campus for Human Development and I can honestly say that I am a different person.
This week has been such a humbling experience. I have always known that homelessness was a horrible problem, but I have never has the chance to see that firsthand; this week changed that. Like I said before, today was the last day working at the Mission and the whole day I had to keep myself from crying. I worked in the kitchen today and it was an absolute blast. I became very skilled at potato peeling and de-boning turkey. Working in the kitchen can be very tiresome, but you get the chance to interact with all of the staff and people in the program. It’s an amazing experience to serve them their food as well, because you can just see the happiness in their face as they walk by. Working in the kitchen is probably my favorite because you do have that interaction and you have the chance to see the homeless face to face and it makes you realize just how blessed you are. I have learned that lesson a lot this week.
After working in the kitchen all day, it was time for goodbyes, which was the hardest part. You can tell that they were so appreciative of having us there and I feel blessed to be there. The men that I came to know fairly well was Willie, James, Len, and Keith. We were able to get our pictures with them and their contact information which was really awesome. Willie is the man whose daughter has been missing since Friday, so we wanted to keep in touch with him to get updates on his situations. As he was talking about it, you could just see the pain in his eyes and how hard he was trying not to show it. I almost lost it then and there. Earlier, they prayed for us and was asking God to bless us and it blew my mind away. These people are in need of so much and yet they ask God to bless us. It blew my mind on how unselfish these men are and how I need to learn from them.
Later on in the day, Billy and some other men at the mission cooked us a fancy dinner. They had tables set up with centerpieces and amazing food. However, as I was walking through the line I noticed how familiar some of the food look. The sweet potatoes that we had peeled were cooked on the table. I had watched the desserts being placed on the crystal plate while I was in the kitchen and I remembered how Billy was telling the workers how the desserts needed to be placed so it would look good. It broke my heart to think how much effort they put into making us feel welcome. It also broke my heart to know what the Mission people were eating while we had a fancy dinner. I can honestly say that I will never look at anything the same again. Its been the most frustrating yet rewarding week of my life and I truly mean that. Life and the way I see it has changed and I know its for the better. I will miss the Mission and the Campus, but mostly the Mission because I came so close to that place and the people there. I have already cried once since coming back to the hotel because I didn’t want to leave. I will miss this place and the Mission, with the people there, has changed my life.
Dr. Campbell
3-11-09
Reflection Journal- Day Five
It is the last day we are working at the Nashville Rescue Mission and I have so many mixed emotions right now. I am sad that today is the last day because this has been one of the most rewarding weeks of my life yet I am happy because I know that I have made a difference this week. This week I have had the opportunity to work with two agencies, the Nashville Rescue Mission and the Campus for Human Development and I can honestly say that I am a different person.
This week has been such a humbling experience. I have always known that homelessness was a horrible problem, but I have never has the chance to see that firsthand; this week changed that. Like I said before, today was the last day working at the Mission and the whole day I had to keep myself from crying. I worked in the kitchen today and it was an absolute blast. I became very skilled at potato peeling and de-boning turkey. Working in the kitchen can be very tiresome, but you get the chance to interact with all of the staff and people in the program. It’s an amazing experience to serve them their food as well, because you can just see the happiness in their face as they walk by. Working in the kitchen is probably my favorite because you do have that interaction and you have the chance to see the homeless face to face and it makes you realize just how blessed you are. I have learned that lesson a lot this week.
After working in the kitchen all day, it was time for goodbyes, which was the hardest part. You can tell that they were so appreciative of having us there and I feel blessed to be there. The men that I came to know fairly well was Willie, James, Len, and Keith. We were able to get our pictures with them and their contact information which was really awesome. Willie is the man whose daughter has been missing since Friday, so we wanted to keep in touch with him to get updates on his situations. As he was talking about it, you could just see the pain in his eyes and how hard he was trying not to show it. I almost lost it then and there. Earlier, they prayed for us and was asking God to bless us and it blew my mind away. These people are in need of so much and yet they ask God to bless us. It blew my mind on how unselfish these men are and how I need to learn from them.
Later on in the day, Billy and some other men at the mission cooked us a fancy dinner. They had tables set up with centerpieces and amazing food. However, as I was walking through the line I noticed how familiar some of the food look. The sweet potatoes that we had peeled were cooked on the table. I had watched the desserts being placed on the crystal plate while I was in the kitchen and I remembered how Billy was telling the workers how the desserts needed to be placed so it would look good. It broke my heart to think how much effort they put into making us feel welcome. It also broke my heart to know what the Mission people were eating while we had a fancy dinner. I can honestly say that I will never look at anything the same again. Its been the most frustrating yet rewarding week of my life and I truly mean that. Life and the way I see it has changed and I know its for the better. I will miss the Mission and the Campus, but mostly the Mission because I came so close to that place and the people there. I have already cried once since coming back to the hotel because I didn’t want to leave. I will miss this place and the Mission, with the people there, has changed my life.
TiffanyShaver
Tiffany Shaver
Dr. Campbell
3-9-09
Reflection Journal-Day Three
It is the third day of the ABS and so far it has been my most rewarding day. We worked at the Nashville Rescue Mission once again with our entire group. Where there were so many of us, the staff divided us into different groups, some working in the kitchen, some working downstairs in the warehouse, and some of us working in classrooms. Since I am an education major, I joined the group that went to the classrooms. The Rescue Mission is certified to offer courses in order for their residents to obtain their GED. The course that I went into was the literacy class. During that time, I graded their essays based upon the question, “What are your favorite sections to read in the newspaper?” It was sad to read them, because the level of their grammar was that of grade school. It made me realize how lucky I am and how blessed I am to have the opportunity to obtain an education. These men have trouble reading and writing and you can see in their eyes how much they want to accomplish. They also read from newspaper sections about the economy and stem cell research. It was extremely interesting to hear their opinions and discussions about these topics. These men are very intelligent, they just have never been told so or had the opportunity to enhance that. It was hard to look and them and to hear them as they read, because at times they would get frustrated. Like I said before, you can see it in their eyes on how much they want to succeed through this program.
After lunch, I stayed in the kitchen to help prepare dinner. One guy that I met was named Willy, one of the main kitchen staff. Talking to him was probably one of the most humbling experiences. He has been through the program and you can see it in his eyes and hear it in his voice how passionate he is about that place. He loves those men and wants to see them succeed so much. He said that he knows he could be somewhere else making six times more money that he is at the Mission, yet he chooses to be there because he feels that he has so much to offer. As we were leaving, he thanked us and then asked for a favor. He asked the five of us to pray for him; his 13 year old daughter has been missing since Friday and they have put an amber alert out for her. I asked if it would be okay if we went ahead and prayed for him then, he said yes and so we did. Before we did however, he told us something else. This is the part where I start tearing up because I can still see the pain in his eyes. He told us that he had been through the program and had learned to put situations in God’s hands, but this time was so hard. Willy starting crying and said that he really wanted to trust God, but it was hard. That experience was so humbling and it made me realize how selfish I am at times. So many times I complain about how incontinent helping others may be; I come up with so many excuses like I’m tired or I have too much homework. I had a slap in the face today, because I realized if this man can still help others while his daughter is missing, then was is my excuse? I have no excuses because Willy is making no excuses.
So all in all, today has been the best so far. I was very humbled and realized how blessed I am to have an education, to have a loving family, to have the opportunity to spend my spring break helping others. I now know that every time I start to make excuses about helping others, I’ll always remember Willy.
Dr. Campbell
3-9-09
Reflection Journal-Day Three
It is the third day of the ABS and so far it has been my most rewarding day. We worked at the Nashville Rescue Mission once again with our entire group. Where there were so many of us, the staff divided us into different groups, some working in the kitchen, some working downstairs in the warehouse, and some of us working in classrooms. Since I am an education major, I joined the group that went to the classrooms. The Rescue Mission is certified to offer courses in order for their residents to obtain their GED. The course that I went into was the literacy class. During that time, I graded their essays based upon the question, “What are your favorite sections to read in the newspaper?” It was sad to read them, because the level of their grammar was that of grade school. It made me realize how lucky I am and how blessed I am to have the opportunity to obtain an education. These men have trouble reading and writing and you can see in their eyes how much they want to accomplish. They also read from newspaper sections about the economy and stem cell research. It was extremely interesting to hear their opinions and discussions about these topics. These men are very intelligent, they just have never been told so or had the opportunity to enhance that. It was hard to look and them and to hear them as they read, because at times they would get frustrated. Like I said before, you can see it in their eyes on how much they want to succeed through this program.
After lunch, I stayed in the kitchen to help prepare dinner. One guy that I met was named Willy, one of the main kitchen staff. Talking to him was probably one of the most humbling experiences. He has been through the program and you can see it in his eyes and hear it in his voice how passionate he is about that place. He loves those men and wants to see them succeed so much. He said that he knows he could be somewhere else making six times more money that he is at the Mission, yet he chooses to be there because he feels that he has so much to offer. As we were leaving, he thanked us and then asked for a favor. He asked the five of us to pray for him; his 13 year old daughter has been missing since Friday and they have put an amber alert out for her. I asked if it would be okay if we went ahead and prayed for him then, he said yes and so we did. Before we did however, he told us something else. This is the part where I start tearing up because I can still see the pain in his eyes. He told us that he had been through the program and had learned to put situations in God’s hands, but this time was so hard. Willy starting crying and said that he really wanted to trust God, but it was hard. That experience was so humbling and it made me realize how selfish I am at times. So many times I complain about how incontinent helping others may be; I come up with so many excuses like I’m tired or I have too much homework. I had a slap in the face today, because I realized if this man can still help others while his daughter is missing, then was is my excuse? I have no excuses because Willy is making no excuses.
So all in all, today has been the best so far. I was very humbled and realized how blessed I am to have an education, to have a loving family, to have the opportunity to spend my spring break helping others. I now know that every time I start to make excuses about helping others, I’ll always remember Willy.
TreskaDunbar
Treska Dunbar
SOWK 350
Journal/Reflection
March 11, 2009
Today we worked at the Nashville Rescue Mission. I worked downstairs in the storage room. At first we were organizing can food, so that the kitchen staff will have an easier time finding what they need when they need it. Next, we sorted bed linens and bagged them. After we had them all sorted and bagged, another gentleman who works at the mission told us that they didn’t need them bagged and that we needed to take them out of the bags and place them in bins. This was frustrating. We had spent most of our day bagging these linens only to take them out and place them in bins. This miscommunication among staff caused the work ethic of the group to change. Everyone was in a good mood and had good work ethic until we were asked to move the linens and then everyone became annoyed and the work ethic shifted drastically.
Many of the homeless people mentioned that they could see the difference that we were making. They all were constantly thanking us for giving up our time to work for and with them. The staff at the Nashville Rescue Mission served us a delicious appreciation dinner. They were so thankful for the work that we have been doing there. However, I had mixed feelings about eating the appreciation dinner. It was a buffet of about ten different choices. It was hard knowing that I had all of these options of food upstairs, and the homeless were eating the cafeteria food downstairs.
I noticed on the first day that we ate at the mission that they don’t offer the clients any salt or pepper to season their food. I know they have plenty of salt and pepper, because when we were organizing non-perishable foods there was a large amount of salt and pepper. They provided us with salt and pepper at our appreciation dinner, so why can they not provide them with salt and pepper upstairs?
I am still amazed at the faith in God that these homeless individuals have. Today I spoke with a homeless individual and he asked about my faith in God. We were able to have a good conversation about God. It amazes me that he can have such a strong faith in God after all he has been through. Overall, today was a good day and I enjoyed serving this population.
SOWK 350
Journal/Reflection
March 11, 2009
Today we worked at the Nashville Rescue Mission. I worked downstairs in the storage room. At first we were organizing can food, so that the kitchen staff will have an easier time finding what they need when they need it. Next, we sorted bed linens and bagged them. After we had them all sorted and bagged, another gentleman who works at the mission told us that they didn’t need them bagged and that we needed to take them out of the bags and place them in bins. This was frustrating. We had spent most of our day bagging these linens only to take them out and place them in bins. This miscommunication among staff caused the work ethic of the group to change. Everyone was in a good mood and had good work ethic until we were asked to move the linens and then everyone became annoyed and the work ethic shifted drastically.
Many of the homeless people mentioned that they could see the difference that we were making. They all were constantly thanking us for giving up our time to work for and with them. The staff at the Nashville Rescue Mission served us a delicious appreciation dinner. They were so thankful for the work that we have been doing there. However, I had mixed feelings about eating the appreciation dinner. It was a buffet of about ten different choices. It was hard knowing that I had all of these options of food upstairs, and the homeless were eating the cafeteria food downstairs.
I noticed on the first day that we ate at the mission that they don’t offer the clients any salt or pepper to season their food. I know they have plenty of salt and pepper, because when we were organizing non-perishable foods there was a large amount of salt and pepper. They provided us with salt and pepper at our appreciation dinner, so why can they not provide them with salt and pepper upstairs?
I am still amazed at the faith in God that these homeless individuals have. Today I spoke with a homeless individual and he asked about my faith in God. We were able to have a good conversation about God. It amazes me that he can have such a strong faith in God after all he has been through. Overall, today was a good day and I enjoyed serving this population.
BrianCaulkins
Brian Caulkins
March 11, 2009
Psychology 350
Reflection for Alternative Spring Break – Day #5
Today was our last of volunteer work. Our last day of work was to be volunteered at the Nashville Rescue Mission. Our group had already been their once before and knew what to expect. Our objective for most of the morning was organizing and shelving canned foods. It is hard for the mission to give out the food if they do not know what they have. It didn’t seem like much to shelve the canned food and organize it but it meant a lot to the rescue mission. The last day to me was more of a relaxing one. We did work but the work was not strenuous and everlasting. One of the funniest things that I thought happened today was having so much canned pumpkin. I have never seen caned pumpkin and the mission had boxes and boxes of it. After our morning work of shelving and organizing canned foods we went to lunch.
One of the more rewarding things that happened today was the fact that every time a full-time worker made eye contact he knew who you were and spoke right away. They recognized us and were still appreciative of our hard work. Some even started talking right away. After lunch we went back down to the basement to work. Our job for the rest of the evening was organizing bed linens and putting them in the right bins. Although this was easy and boring work, it was still productive. We also had fun while working too. Every half-hour the employees would offer us a drink or ask if we needed anything. It was almost if they were catering us. One of the distinct phrases I remember one of them saying was “you are a blessing from God.” At first I thought to myself how weird it was to hear such a thing but then I realized that some people might not get as many blessing as me. They appreciate every little blessing that they can get.
One exciting thing that happened to me today was having the feeling of accomplishment. It was our last day of work and I can honestly say that my work during the whole week was productive and helpful. I can tell people that I made a difference in some peoples live because I took a little of my time to help out a lot of people. There is no way to measure how many people will benefit from our help but it is rewarding just to know that I helped just one person in need.
The frustrating thing that I experienced today was how some people took advantage of the last day of volunteering and didn’t do anything. They sat around all day and would do absolutely nothing. It didn’t make me mad that they were not working; it made me mad that they would not work for other people who needed their help. There is a different feeling you get when you help somebody cause they ask and when you help somebody who doesn’t ask and really needs it. I just wish that they would realize that just a little bit of work would help the organization out tremendously.
March 11, 2009
Psychology 350
Reflection for Alternative Spring Break – Day #5
Today was our last of volunteer work. Our last day of work was to be volunteered at the Nashville Rescue Mission. Our group had already been their once before and knew what to expect. Our objective for most of the morning was organizing and shelving canned foods. It is hard for the mission to give out the food if they do not know what they have. It didn’t seem like much to shelve the canned food and organize it but it meant a lot to the rescue mission. The last day to me was more of a relaxing one. We did work but the work was not strenuous and everlasting. One of the funniest things that I thought happened today was having so much canned pumpkin. I have never seen caned pumpkin and the mission had boxes and boxes of it. After our morning work of shelving and organizing canned foods we went to lunch.
One of the more rewarding things that happened today was the fact that every time a full-time worker made eye contact he knew who you were and spoke right away. They recognized us and were still appreciative of our hard work. Some even started talking right away. After lunch we went back down to the basement to work. Our job for the rest of the evening was organizing bed linens and putting them in the right bins. Although this was easy and boring work, it was still productive. We also had fun while working too. Every half-hour the employees would offer us a drink or ask if we needed anything. It was almost if they were catering us. One of the distinct phrases I remember one of them saying was “you are a blessing from God.” At first I thought to myself how weird it was to hear such a thing but then I realized that some people might not get as many blessing as me. They appreciate every little blessing that they can get.
One exciting thing that happened to me today was having the feeling of accomplishment. It was our last day of work and I can honestly say that my work during the whole week was productive and helpful. I can tell people that I made a difference in some peoples live because I took a little of my time to help out a lot of people. There is no way to measure how many people will benefit from our help but it is rewarding just to know that I helped just one person in need.
The frustrating thing that I experienced today was how some people took advantage of the last day of volunteering and didn’t do anything. They sat around all day and would do absolutely nothing. It didn’t make me mad that they were not working; it made me mad that they would not work for other people who needed their help. There is a different feeling you get when you help somebody cause they ask and when you help somebody who doesn’t ask and really needs it. I just wish that they would realize that just a little bit of work would help the organization out tremendously.
TreskaDunbar
Treska Dunbar
Journal/Reflection
SOWK 350
March 10, 2009
Today I worked at the Music City Mission. This agency was different than any other agency that we have worked with this week. At the Music City Mission they serve not only the homeless, but low income people as well. They provide the clients with food boxes as well as clothing. The clients at the Music City Mission were from differing backgrounds. I saw quite a few different racial groups, mostly Latinos. There were also a lot of children at the mission. The children all played with one another and seemed to have no idea of their economic state.
At one point today I was in the office as a lady was “checking out”. The mission only allows them to have 8 items of clothing per person. It made me sad to see that this lady had 8 outfits; however, she could only take half of them because of the eight item rule. Our group spent hours sorting clothing and there was a lot of clothing so I don’t really understand why they have the eight item limit.
While at the mission I did a variety of activities. I helped clean the facility; which, could seem like an obnoxious task, but I feel like it is important that the mission look nice and appealing for the clients. I also helped with the sorting of clothing. This is important, because it makes it easier for the clients to find the clothing sizes that they need. I felt like the work we did was important in helping this disadvantaged population better themselves.
One of the best parts of today for me was getting to talk to Paul. Paul is a social worker in Nashville and a volunteer at the Music City Mission. As a social work major it is always exciting when you get to talk to someone who is currently practicing social work, but it is more exciting to talk to a practicing social worker who loves what they are doing and in a field similar to the one you want to enter. Paul works with juveniles and is currently working with homelessness and specifically juvenile homelessness. My desire is to work with juveniles, so it was great to meet someone who is in the field I want to pursue. He gave me a lot of insight into the profession and the field as well as inspired me to fulfill my desire to serve the juvenile population.
Journal/Reflection
SOWK 350
March 10, 2009
Today I worked at the Music City Mission. This agency was different than any other agency that we have worked with this week. At the Music City Mission they serve not only the homeless, but low income people as well. They provide the clients with food boxes as well as clothing. The clients at the Music City Mission were from differing backgrounds. I saw quite a few different racial groups, mostly Latinos. There were also a lot of children at the mission. The children all played with one another and seemed to have no idea of their economic state.
At one point today I was in the office as a lady was “checking out”. The mission only allows them to have 8 items of clothing per person. It made me sad to see that this lady had 8 outfits; however, she could only take half of them because of the eight item rule. Our group spent hours sorting clothing and there was a lot of clothing so I don’t really understand why they have the eight item limit.
While at the mission I did a variety of activities. I helped clean the facility; which, could seem like an obnoxious task, but I feel like it is important that the mission look nice and appealing for the clients. I also helped with the sorting of clothing. This is important, because it makes it easier for the clients to find the clothing sizes that they need. I felt like the work we did was important in helping this disadvantaged population better themselves.
One of the best parts of today for me was getting to talk to Paul. Paul is a social worker in Nashville and a volunteer at the Music City Mission. As a social work major it is always exciting when you get to talk to someone who is currently practicing social work, but it is more exciting to talk to a practicing social worker who loves what they are doing and in a field similar to the one you want to enter. Paul works with juveniles and is currently working with homelessness and specifically juvenile homelessness. My desire is to work with juveniles, so it was great to meet someone who is in the field I want to pursue. He gave me a lot of insight into the profession and the field as well as inspired me to fulfill my desire to serve the juvenile population.
BrianCaulkins
Brian Caulkins
March 10, 2009
Psychology 350
Reflection for Alternative Spring Break – Day #4
Today we started our volunteer work an hour later. I think this was a good idea because most of the time we didn’t leave on time and everybody was grouchy and not willing to work. The organization we worked at today was called Music City Mission. When we first pulled up to the building it didn’t look like much but as soon as we walked inside it was pretty nice. I started my day off by washing out trashcans that were really dirty. It wasn’t that warm outside so the water was very cold. After cleaning out the trashcans I was assigned to rake leaves. By this time it had already warmed up and was pleasant outside. I decided to make raking leaves fun by raking them in a circle to look like a golf course. It wasn’t a masterpiece but I thought it looked pretty good for a leaf outline. After I raked leaves is when the real work started.
I became aquatinted with the head guy at the City Music Mission. His name was Bob. My job for the rest of the day was carrying out bags that the rest of the team packed up then load it onto the wagon. After the wagon was full, Bob and I took the wagon to a thrift store called Thrifts Mart. According to Bob, the Music City Mission receives compensation for every pound of clothing they bring. He told me that normally this was not the arrangement but with the economy being as low as it is nobody wants to donate clothes. The money that the Music City Mission receives goes towards electric bills and maintenance for the Music City Mission building. I believe that Bob and I made four trips to the Thrifts Mart. He told me that four loads was a good number since they only do this type of transaction twice a year. Another thing that I noticed while I was in the building was the customers. All of the customers were foreign and did not speak English. My girlfriend can speak Spanish very well and helped with some confusing conversations. Bob also told me that if you go up about another mile passed the building that all the stores are in Spanish or Arabic. According to Bob the last Census taken in that part of town stated that 80 to 85 percent of the population did not have a faith-based religion. It also shocked me when he told me that during Christmas time that his organization gave out 1200 toys to 300 kids. The funny thing was that the organization is Nazareth faith-based and 90 percent of the kids were foreign and was not of the same religion. It was not that it bothered him; it was just somewhat of a culture shock.
The good thing that happened to me today was learning about his part of town and how much I made a difference. I learned a lot about how our country is changing and how hard it is to be a successful person in a big city. It is something that I will always remember and take in into perspective once I am on my own. He was very appreciative and thanked every one of us. The frustrating thing that happened today was when Bob told me that sometimes people come into the building and are not in need. They are just “pros” as Bob would call them. These people take from the people who are in need. One of my friends today actually watched this happen. We went to the mall after our long day of work and recognized on the customer from the mission. These people were carrying lots of bags from expensive stores. This was a classic case of people being cheap and stealing from the needy. I don’t understand why people would do such a thing.
March 10, 2009
Psychology 350
Reflection for Alternative Spring Break – Day #4
Today we started our volunteer work an hour later. I think this was a good idea because most of the time we didn’t leave on time and everybody was grouchy and not willing to work. The organization we worked at today was called Music City Mission. When we first pulled up to the building it didn’t look like much but as soon as we walked inside it was pretty nice. I started my day off by washing out trashcans that were really dirty. It wasn’t that warm outside so the water was very cold. After cleaning out the trashcans I was assigned to rake leaves. By this time it had already warmed up and was pleasant outside. I decided to make raking leaves fun by raking them in a circle to look like a golf course. It wasn’t a masterpiece but I thought it looked pretty good for a leaf outline. After I raked leaves is when the real work started.
I became aquatinted with the head guy at the City Music Mission. His name was Bob. My job for the rest of the day was carrying out bags that the rest of the team packed up then load it onto the wagon. After the wagon was full, Bob and I took the wagon to a thrift store called Thrifts Mart. According to Bob, the Music City Mission receives compensation for every pound of clothing they bring. He told me that normally this was not the arrangement but with the economy being as low as it is nobody wants to donate clothes. The money that the Music City Mission receives goes towards electric bills and maintenance for the Music City Mission building. I believe that Bob and I made four trips to the Thrifts Mart. He told me that four loads was a good number since they only do this type of transaction twice a year. Another thing that I noticed while I was in the building was the customers. All of the customers were foreign and did not speak English. My girlfriend can speak Spanish very well and helped with some confusing conversations. Bob also told me that if you go up about another mile passed the building that all the stores are in Spanish or Arabic. According to Bob the last Census taken in that part of town stated that 80 to 85 percent of the population did not have a faith-based religion. It also shocked me when he told me that during Christmas time that his organization gave out 1200 toys to 300 kids. The funny thing was that the organization is Nazareth faith-based and 90 percent of the kids were foreign and was not of the same religion. It was not that it bothered him; it was just somewhat of a culture shock.
The good thing that happened to me today was learning about his part of town and how much I made a difference. I learned a lot about how our country is changing and how hard it is to be a successful person in a big city. It is something that I will always remember and take in into perspective once I am on my own. He was very appreciative and thanked every one of us. The frustrating thing that happened today was when Bob told me that sometimes people come into the building and are not in need. They are just “pros” as Bob would call them. These people take from the people who are in need. One of my friends today actually watched this happen. We went to the mall after our long day of work and recognized on the customer from the mission. These people were carrying lots of bags from expensive stores. This was a classic case of people being cheap and stealing from the needy. I don’t understand why people would do such a thing.
JessicaKirk
Kirk, Jessica
3-11-09
Alternative Spring Break in Nashville
Day Five
Today I spent another day in the kitchen at the Nashville Rescue Mission. I like working in the kitchen because you have more one on one contact with the people that work and visit the mission which is probably the most rewarding aspect of the mission. There are some real characters there like the a guy named Donnie who even gave is his address so we could write to him and send him some picture of the mountains and rivers of West Virginia.
I really like working at the Nashville Rescue Mission because almost everyone that you get to work with is apart of the program that the mission offers or at one point was a participant. This surprised me a little because I was expecting them to be different; I wasn't expecting to meet some of the people that I did there. One man became homeless because his business had went under and even used to be a marine
The only frustrating thing that happened today was that as soon as it was time for us to start serving the food at lunch to the transients the same church group from the other day showed up and was ready to serve. One of the workers in the kitchen even told us to move so they could serve, but luckily Alex came to our rescue and told them that it wasn't going to happen cause we had been waiting all week to serve and we wasn't going to give it up again.
As far as a story goes I cant really think of any except for one that just sort of made me laugh. As I was in the serving line this one man who was at least 50 to 60 years old said something that struck me as odd. The man said "How ya doing there shorty", which is fine with me, but shorty definitely wasn't from his generation which made me laugh, and I replied "I'm good but Im not short" in a joking manner. Everyone who was around and heard it and even the man laughed. It was just something that I found was odd and funny at the same time.
3-11-09
Alternative Spring Break in Nashville
Day Five
Today I spent another day in the kitchen at the Nashville Rescue Mission. I like working in the kitchen because you have more one on one contact with the people that work and visit the mission which is probably the most rewarding aspect of the mission. There are some real characters there like the a guy named Donnie who even gave is his address so we could write to him and send him some picture of the mountains and rivers of West Virginia.
I really like working at the Nashville Rescue Mission because almost everyone that you get to work with is apart of the program that the mission offers or at one point was a participant. This surprised me a little because I was expecting them to be different; I wasn't expecting to meet some of the people that I did there. One man became homeless because his business had went under and even used to be a marine
The only frustrating thing that happened today was that as soon as it was time for us to start serving the food at lunch to the transients the same church group from the other day showed up and was ready to serve. One of the workers in the kitchen even told us to move so they could serve, but luckily Alex came to our rescue and told them that it wasn't going to happen cause we had been waiting all week to serve and we wasn't going to give it up again.
As far as a story goes I cant really think of any except for one that just sort of made me laugh. As I was in the serving line this one man who was at least 50 to 60 years old said something that struck me as odd. The man said "How ya doing there shorty", which is fine with me, but shorty definitely wasn't from his generation which made me laugh, and I replied "I'm good but Im not short" in a joking manner. Everyone who was around and heard it and even the man laughed. It was just something that I found was odd and funny at the same time.
JenniferHellems
Jennifer Hellems
SOWK 350
Dr. Campbell
Journal Entry 5
Wednesday March 11, 2009
Today we went back to the Nashville Rescue Mission and continued working on the different tasks that we had been working on all week. We worked, had lunch, went back to work, then they had a special dinner for us.
We started the day with part of us working in the kitchen, some of us working with the people in the GED program, and the rest of us went downstairs. Downstairs we worked in the pantry and sorted out boxes and boxes of food. We separated them all and put them on shelves so they would be easy to access. After we completed that task we went into the basement area and four of us went to bins of sheets and sorted all of the sheets pulling out any white ones we could find. Then we put them in trash bags 25 in each. After that we put all of the rest of the sheets back into the bin. After we finished that we went to lunch.
After lunch we went back downstairs and found that we needed to go back to the bins and go through the sheets and fold them and separate them to be washed. That took the rest of the evening. I kept switching back and forth between sheets and sorting boxes of things such as soap, shampoo, conditioner, and many, many other items.
After we finished all the assigned tasks we went back upstairs and waited for our special dinner. The guys who were in charge of our activities this week were so appreciative and said that we worked harder than most groups that are sent to them so they wanted to make us a special dinner. I really enjoyed it, it was so good. We talked to them and thanked them for everything and they thanked us in return.
The only thing I got frustrated about was when one guy brought us to the sheet bin and told us what to do then after we finished it another guy came along and told us to do something completely different. Actually that happedned a lot this week; apparently the guys all had different ideas as to what should be going, on and what things should look like, and how they should be done. Other than that I enjoyed my last day at the Nashville Rescue Mission and I was really happy that they enjoyed us being there. It really made me feel like I had done something for someone and it made me happy.
SOWK 350
Dr. Campbell
Journal Entry 5
Wednesday March 11, 2009
Today we went back to the Nashville Rescue Mission and continued working on the different tasks that we had been working on all week. We worked, had lunch, went back to work, then they had a special dinner for us.
We started the day with part of us working in the kitchen, some of us working with the people in the GED program, and the rest of us went downstairs. Downstairs we worked in the pantry and sorted out boxes and boxes of food. We separated them all and put them on shelves so they would be easy to access. After we completed that task we went into the basement area and four of us went to bins of sheets and sorted all of the sheets pulling out any white ones we could find. Then we put them in trash bags 25 in each. After that we put all of the rest of the sheets back into the bin. After we finished that we went to lunch.
After lunch we went back downstairs and found that we needed to go back to the bins and go through the sheets and fold them and separate them to be washed. That took the rest of the evening. I kept switching back and forth between sheets and sorting boxes of things such as soap, shampoo, conditioner, and many, many other items.
After we finished all the assigned tasks we went back upstairs and waited for our special dinner. The guys who were in charge of our activities this week were so appreciative and said that we worked harder than most groups that are sent to them so they wanted to make us a special dinner. I really enjoyed it, it was so good. We talked to them and thanked them for everything and they thanked us in return.
The only thing I got frustrated about was when one guy brought us to the sheet bin and told us what to do then after we finished it another guy came along and told us to do something completely different. Actually that happedned a lot this week; apparently the guys all had different ideas as to what should be going, on and what things should look like, and how they should be done. Other than that I enjoyed my last day at the Nashville Rescue Mission and I was really happy that they enjoyed us being there. It really made me feel like I had done something for someone and it made me happy.
JenniferParsons
Jennifer Parsons
Reflection # 5
Alternative Spring Break
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
We went back to the Nashville Rescue Mission. Everyone seemed to feel comfortable there since we had been there before. The people, as always, were very nice to us. I like that about the Nashville Rescue Mission.
The group I was in was first sent to the pantry to sort out the food onto the shelves to make it easier for them to find. This was easy for me, as I had worked in that area of the Mission as a previous task a couple days ago. Therefore, I already knew where most of the items belonged. It also helped that there were more people helping. So, as they sorted the food into boxes, I was sorting them onto the shelves, which made things move a lot faster than a few days ago.
After a few hours of doing that, we were sent to fold sheets. I was caught off guard and a little confused because they did not give us a heads up to let us know so we could clean up the pantry area and get it neater. But we did as we were told and went to fold sheets. Sorting the fitted from the flat sheets and folding them into piles of twenty-five sheets, we worked for about an hour and a half before lunch.
After lunch, we went back to folding the sheets. We sorted the whites from the colors because they keep the whites and give the colored sheets away to another Mission. Later, I went to help the two girls who were sorting out the toiletries. We separated everything into separate boxes and threw out the used and “nasty” ones. A few people came over and sat there, doing nothing. After a while, I get aggravated with their laziness and non-motivation. I was unimpressed with their poor attitudes and lack of work. We came here to work and it was the last day… work. They were not asking much of us. I just do not understand why people would come on a mission trip to help those who need it and to do what work is asked of us and then complain about it. Don’t come. After a while, I left because I did not want to say anything that I would regret later.
After we sorted the sheets out and put them into black garbage bags, we were told to put them into the big bins so they could be washed. We then had to take them out the bags we had just put them in. I began to wonder why we put them in the bags in the first place, but I did not ask questions and just did as I was told. Upon finishing this task, I returned to the toiletries. We finished sorting the items into boxes and put them back onto the shelves. I also apologized for leaving them earlier, but they said they understood and agreed that they, too, were becoming aggravated with the lack of motivation that was being portrayed.
We finished early, so we headed up to the cafeteria following clean-up. They had prepared a special dinner for us for coming to help them. It was very nice. They set up tables, made a lot of great food and showed wonderful hospitality. I felt honored to be in the presence of such great people. I am very glad that so many people are there to help and get help. That is where greatness starts.
Reflection # 5
Alternative Spring Break
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
We went back to the Nashville Rescue Mission. Everyone seemed to feel comfortable there since we had been there before. The people, as always, were very nice to us. I like that about the Nashville Rescue Mission.
The group I was in was first sent to the pantry to sort out the food onto the shelves to make it easier for them to find. This was easy for me, as I had worked in that area of the Mission as a previous task a couple days ago. Therefore, I already knew where most of the items belonged. It also helped that there were more people helping. So, as they sorted the food into boxes, I was sorting them onto the shelves, which made things move a lot faster than a few days ago.
After a few hours of doing that, we were sent to fold sheets. I was caught off guard and a little confused because they did not give us a heads up to let us know so we could clean up the pantry area and get it neater. But we did as we were told and went to fold sheets. Sorting the fitted from the flat sheets and folding them into piles of twenty-five sheets, we worked for about an hour and a half before lunch.
After lunch, we went back to folding the sheets. We sorted the whites from the colors because they keep the whites and give the colored sheets away to another Mission. Later, I went to help the two girls who were sorting out the toiletries. We separated everything into separate boxes and threw out the used and “nasty” ones. A few people came over and sat there, doing nothing. After a while, I get aggravated with their laziness and non-motivation. I was unimpressed with their poor attitudes and lack of work. We came here to work and it was the last day… work. They were not asking much of us. I just do not understand why people would come on a mission trip to help those who need it and to do what work is asked of us and then complain about it. Don’t come. After a while, I left because I did not want to say anything that I would regret later.
After we sorted the sheets out and put them into black garbage bags, we were told to put them into the big bins so they could be washed. We then had to take them out the bags we had just put them in. I began to wonder why we put them in the bags in the first place, but I did not ask questions and just did as I was told. Upon finishing this task, I returned to the toiletries. We finished sorting the items into boxes and put them back onto the shelves. I also apologized for leaving them earlier, but they said they understood and agreed that they, too, were becoming aggravated with the lack of motivation that was being portrayed.
We finished early, so we headed up to the cafeteria following clean-up. They had prepared a special dinner for us for coming to help them. It was very nice. They set up tables, made a lot of great food and showed wonderful hospitality. I felt honored to be in the presence of such great people. I am very glad that so many people are there to help and get help. That is where greatness starts.
JenniferHellems
Jennifer Hellems
SOWK 350
Dr. Campbell
Journal Entry 4
Tuesday March 10, 2009
Today we went down to the Music City Mission. At this place we helped with a few tasks and learned a little bit about the place. Music City wasn’t like the other missions we went to because it wasn’t a shelter nor did it serve food.
At Music City they accept donations of clothing, food, and other odds and ends. The stuff that is donated is sorted through and they only keep the good stuff, nothing that is old or rag like. Music City is sponsored by the Nazarene church of Rodan. The people that work there do not get paid and it is strictly a volunteer based service.
We sorted through a bunch of clothes and still had so much more upstairs. We also carried some pretty heavy things from upstairs in the mission to downstairs in the church. That was pretty hard work and some people were outside doing some yard work. Some people went through the large bags of rice and pinto beans and divied them up into zip-lock bags. They also worked on flour and sugar. One of the men that worked their explained to me that all the food is donated or bought with donated money. Most of it is bought in bulk and is divied and then handed out. They only hand out food and clothes. Everything they have they give away for free.
The only time I really was frustrated today was when me and a couple girls were dividing up the clothes and we had a nice neat system working. We knew what to keep and what tot get rid of. There was only so many people that could fit in the area and work together productively. Well a few of the other girls were finished with what they were doing so they came over and started picking clothes up and throwing them around, going through things we had already been through, and not knowing what to get rid of or what to keep. I was just really frustrated because it was hard to work with so many people.
While I was moving things into the church one of the other girls and I noticed a child in the back seat of a black ford explorer crying. Her mother was inside with a puppy and had been there for a while. I finished taking stuff downstairs and checking on the child each time I went by. When I was finished I walked back in and told the preacher of the church about it. He talked to the secretary and the lady left. I’m not sure if anything was said to her, but she did leave. It wasn’t super hot outside, but it the temperature was close to 80 today. I was not impressed with that woman’s parenting skills.
I felt really good when we left today because I knew as a whole accomplished a lot of things! I could tell that brother Bob and his dad were really happy with us and what we did for them. Tomorrow is another day at the Nashville Rescue Mission.
SOWK 350
Dr. Campbell
Journal Entry 4
Tuesday March 10, 2009
Today we went down to the Music City Mission. At this place we helped with a few tasks and learned a little bit about the place. Music City wasn’t like the other missions we went to because it wasn’t a shelter nor did it serve food.
At Music City they accept donations of clothing, food, and other odds and ends. The stuff that is donated is sorted through and they only keep the good stuff, nothing that is old or rag like. Music City is sponsored by the Nazarene church of Rodan. The people that work there do not get paid and it is strictly a volunteer based service.
We sorted through a bunch of clothes and still had so much more upstairs. We also carried some pretty heavy things from upstairs in the mission to downstairs in the church. That was pretty hard work and some people were outside doing some yard work. Some people went through the large bags of rice and pinto beans and divied them up into zip-lock bags. They also worked on flour and sugar. One of the men that worked their explained to me that all the food is donated or bought with donated money. Most of it is bought in bulk and is divied and then handed out. They only hand out food and clothes. Everything they have they give away for free.
The only time I really was frustrated today was when me and a couple girls were dividing up the clothes and we had a nice neat system working. We knew what to keep and what tot get rid of. There was only so many people that could fit in the area and work together productively. Well a few of the other girls were finished with what they were doing so they came over and started picking clothes up and throwing them around, going through things we had already been through, and not knowing what to get rid of or what to keep. I was just really frustrated because it was hard to work with so many people.
While I was moving things into the church one of the other girls and I noticed a child in the back seat of a black ford explorer crying. Her mother was inside with a puppy and had been there for a while. I finished taking stuff downstairs and checking on the child each time I went by. When I was finished I walked back in and told the preacher of the church about it. He talked to the secretary and the lady left. I’m not sure if anything was said to her, but she did leave. It wasn’t super hot outside, but it the temperature was close to 80 today. I was not impressed with that woman’s parenting skills.
I felt really good when we left today because I knew as a whole accomplished a lot of things! I could tell that brother Bob and his dad were really happy with us and what we did for them. Tomorrow is another day at the Nashville Rescue Mission.
PradipAdhikari
Journal
4th day
Pradip Adhikari
10/03/09
Sally Campbell
Campus for Human Development
Today was fourth day of our trip. We had to work for the Campus for Human Development for today. Campus for Human Development is the privately organized organization which has been helping homeless people with different kinds of services. We reached over there at 9 AM. We met windy over there who was a very good person. She was the director of the Campus for the Human Development.
We had a trip around the Campus for the Human Development first. Wendy told us about different kinds of the services that were provided to the homeless people over there. She talked about the beds, classes, food and other different facilities that were provided to the homeless people over there. As she talked about Campus for the Human Development we got to know that it was an organization that helped the homeless people not only by providing them food and shelter but also they were educating those people so that they could stand in the society and live a normal life as other people. They were also helping homeless people to find a matching job so that they could earn their own living and go back to their community. We got to know that every people there were taught to be a good human being. Windy also showed the new project they were having according to which they were building some more buildings so that they could help more people and provide some more facility. After the trip we started our work. We had to paint the bathroom over there for today, it was fun. We painted four bathrooms, as we painted bathrooms we met some homeless people who had been using the facilities over there. All those people were very good people, they welcomed us and even thanked for the effort made by us.
After we were done with work Windy game us a paper which was talking about the Campus for Human Development “Through the power of spirituality and the practice of love, the Campus for Human Development provides hospitality with a respect that offers hope in a community of non-violence.” That was exactly what we got to see at the Campus for the Human Development. Spirituality, Love, Hospitality, Respect, Hope, Community, and Non-violence were the human behaviors that were taught to the people over there. We could see spirituality, love, hospitality, respect, hope, community and non-violence as the pillars of the life aspect of the people over there. They were trying learning those aspects and using them in their day to day to life so that they could be independent and live their own life. Overall we had a very good time over there and got to learn something more about the homeless people today.
4th day
Pradip Adhikari
10/03/09
Sally Campbell
Campus for Human Development
Today was fourth day of our trip. We had to work for the Campus for Human Development for today. Campus for Human Development is the privately organized organization which has been helping homeless people with different kinds of services. We reached over there at 9 AM. We met windy over there who was a very good person. She was the director of the Campus for the Human Development.
We had a trip around the Campus for the Human Development first. Wendy told us about different kinds of the services that were provided to the homeless people over there. She talked about the beds, classes, food and other different facilities that were provided to the homeless people over there. As she talked about Campus for the Human Development we got to know that it was an organization that helped the homeless people not only by providing them food and shelter but also they were educating those people so that they could stand in the society and live a normal life as other people. They were also helping homeless people to find a matching job so that they could earn their own living and go back to their community. We got to know that every people there were taught to be a good human being. Windy also showed the new project they were having according to which they were building some more buildings so that they could help more people and provide some more facility. After the trip we started our work. We had to paint the bathroom over there for today, it was fun. We painted four bathrooms, as we painted bathrooms we met some homeless people who had been using the facilities over there. All those people were very good people, they welcomed us and even thanked for the effort made by us.
After we were done with work Windy game us a paper which was talking about the Campus for Human Development “Through the power of spirituality and the practice of love, the Campus for Human Development provides hospitality with a respect that offers hope in a community of non-violence.” That was exactly what we got to see at the Campus for the Human Development. Spirituality, Love, Hospitality, Respect, Hope, Community, and Non-violence were the human behaviors that were taught to the people over there. We could see spirituality, love, hospitality, respect, hope, community and non-violence as the pillars of the life aspect of the people over there. They were trying learning those aspects and using them in their day to day to life so that they could be independent and live their own life. Overall we had a very good time over there and got to learn something more about the homeless people today.
SezinCeliktas
Today we went to Nashville Rescue Mission. Today was our last day. We pretty much did the same thing that we did on Monday. We worked in the kitchen, and basement. We knew what we need to do so people didn’t have to show us what to do.
We went to eat lunch with them. And went back to work again. They had a nice dinner for us since it was our last day today. It was really delicious. We all thanked them and left after dinner. Today was a good day too.
Today was the last day. I had fun during this trip. It made me think and it made me realize bunch of things. I am glad I came to Nashville with this trip. It was a good experience.
We went to eat lunch with them. And went back to work again. They had a nice dinner for us since it was our last day today. It was really delicious. We all thanked them and left after dinner. Today was a good day too.
Today was the last day. I had fun during this trip. It made me think and it made me realize bunch of things. I am glad I came to Nashville with this trip. It was a good experience.
MaiLy
Mai Ly
03/11/2009
Social Work
Entry for 03/11/ 2009
Today is the last day we worked in the Nashville Rescue Mission. Everybody started to go to Nashville Rescue Mission at 7:30 am, but my roommate and I woke up late, perhaps at 7:10 a.m. We prepared everything quickly. We didn’t have a breakfast. I felt so hungry and thirsty. We came to Nashville Rescue Mission at 8o’clock because the traffic was so crowded at the morning. We have a lot of duties today: some people taught math or something, some people worked at the kitchen, I worked in the basement. We worked in the basement but another place. It’s different from the pervious days. We had a duty: separate the cans: each box had each kind of can. It had a lot of cans, example: green beans , green peas, fish, spaghetti, noodle , rice…. Everyone worked hard, so the work ended quickly. We had lunch at 11:30 am. In the afternoon, everyone looked tired, I think nobody wanted to do anything. Because the weather was so cold and everybody felt sleepy . But everyone must do, we separate the blankets, pillow cases and the sheets. It had a lot of dust and the smelt was bad. In the afternoon, everyone looked tired. It was the last day we worked in here so when we finished the work, we didn’t eat in the dinning room like the pervious days. We went upstairs and went to the small room. The food was much better than in the dining room and some guys in here was so nice. Every one always smile and they’re friendly. We had a buffet and everyone ate a lot of food because we had a hard- working day. The guy in the Nashville Rescue Mission talked thank to everybody. Everybody felt happy because we helped for this center. When I sat on the chair, a black guy came and asked us: Do you work well? Do you come back tomorrow? We said: “No. It is our last day, we ‘ll leave on Friday, tomorrow, we’ll be free” The guy looked so sad and he wanted us come back later. He was so funny. After eating, we go back to the motel. We’ll be free tomorrow.
After the entire trip, I had some experiences. We must have responsibility when we worked in the team. We need to help the homeless if we can. We spent the time for the useful work. If it had another trip, I’m sure I’ll attend.
03/11/2009
Social Work
Entry for 03/11/ 2009
Today is the last day we worked in the Nashville Rescue Mission. Everybody started to go to Nashville Rescue Mission at 7:30 am, but my roommate and I woke up late, perhaps at 7:10 a.m. We prepared everything quickly. We didn’t have a breakfast. I felt so hungry and thirsty. We came to Nashville Rescue Mission at 8o’clock because the traffic was so crowded at the morning. We have a lot of duties today: some people taught math or something, some people worked at the kitchen, I worked in the basement. We worked in the basement but another place. It’s different from the pervious days. We had a duty: separate the cans: each box had each kind of can. It had a lot of cans, example: green beans , green peas, fish, spaghetti, noodle , rice…. Everyone worked hard, so the work ended quickly. We had lunch at 11:30 am. In the afternoon, everyone looked tired, I think nobody wanted to do anything. Because the weather was so cold and everybody felt sleepy . But everyone must do, we separate the blankets, pillow cases and the sheets. It had a lot of dust and the smelt was bad. In the afternoon, everyone looked tired. It was the last day we worked in here so when we finished the work, we didn’t eat in the dinning room like the pervious days. We went upstairs and went to the small room. The food was much better than in the dining room and some guys in here was so nice. Every one always smile and they’re friendly. We had a buffet and everyone ate a lot of food because we had a hard- working day. The guy in the Nashville Rescue Mission talked thank to everybody. Everybody felt happy because we helped for this center. When I sat on the chair, a black guy came and asked us: Do you work well? Do you come back tomorrow? We said: “No. It is our last day, we ‘ll leave on Friday, tomorrow, we’ll be free” The guy looked so sad and he wanted us come back later. He was so funny. After eating, we go back to the motel. We’ll be free tomorrow.
After the entire trip, I had some experiences. We must have responsibility when we worked in the team. We need to help the homeless if we can. We spent the time for the useful work. If it had another trip, I’m sure I’ll attend.
SamanthaThomas
Samantha Thomas
2-11-09
Reflection 5
Today was a more mundane day because all of us had worked extremely hard all week to help these shelters. Today, my group helped one of the education administration tutor the GED students and make packets and copies for all of those students who needed their math homework in order to study for the final exam. First thing this morning, we were assigned to a particular classroom to help out with. Akia and I were assigned to the math 2/3 class where we helped the men with fractions, geometry, and general math skills. However, teaching the specific skills was not the most rewarding part of it all. During the time when we were there, we met some very interesting individuals. One of those individuals was Ron Taylor who said he was 43 and wants to become an electrician. He had struggles as a young man with addiction to alcohol and drugs and he said, “The Lord set him free when he sent me(Ron) to this program.” After seeing the work he could do and how bright he was after I finally managed to convince him to finish his work, I knew this could become a definite reality for him.
I also met a young man named Michael who was only 18 and wanted to attend UNC when he graduated the program at the rescue mission. He and I had a heated debate about UNC basketball versus Duke basketball and finally came to the agreed consensus that we were both pulling for the same team. He is definitely a person I would love to get to know better and maybe watch a few games with. J
During the second part of the afternoon we sorted through the piles of portfolios filled with work from the various classes the men are taking so that we might be able to make copies of some of their work in order to provide them with a study guide for the final GED exam. While looking through some of their work, you would never know or expect to see how much they know and can teach us. One man wrote about freedom as if it was not a goal but a promise that everyone should have fulfilled. Another wrote about his family and how much he missed them, I could honestly say that I did tear up while reading this one. It goes to show you how these men are human and not just homeless.
2-11-09
Reflection 5
Today was a more mundane day because all of us had worked extremely hard all week to help these shelters. Today, my group helped one of the education administration tutor the GED students and make packets and copies for all of those students who needed their math homework in order to study for the final exam. First thing this morning, we were assigned to a particular classroom to help out with. Akia and I were assigned to the math 2/3 class where we helped the men with fractions, geometry, and general math skills. However, teaching the specific skills was not the most rewarding part of it all. During the time when we were there, we met some very interesting individuals. One of those individuals was Ron Taylor who said he was 43 and wants to become an electrician. He had struggles as a young man with addiction to alcohol and drugs and he said, “The Lord set him free when he sent me(Ron) to this program.” After seeing the work he could do and how bright he was after I finally managed to convince him to finish his work, I knew this could become a definite reality for him.
I also met a young man named Michael who was only 18 and wanted to attend UNC when he graduated the program at the rescue mission. He and I had a heated debate about UNC basketball versus Duke basketball and finally came to the agreed consensus that we were both pulling for the same team. He is definitely a person I would love to get to know better and maybe watch a few games with. J
During the second part of the afternoon we sorted through the piles of portfolios filled with work from the various classes the men are taking so that we might be able to make copies of some of their work in order to provide them with a study guide for the final GED exam. While looking through some of their work, you would never know or expect to see how much they know and can teach us. One man wrote about freedom as if it was not a goal but a promise that everyone should have fulfilled. Another wrote about his family and how much he missed them, I could honestly say that I did tear up while reading this one. It goes to show you how these men are human and not just homeless.
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