This week the staff and young people at the Food For Thought Program hosted our group of 8 MSW students on Mon. (13th) and Thurs.(16th). Our goal was to gather as much information about FFT as possible; its mission, goals, and operations, and get as much hands-on experience as we could. With the help of the wonderful staff and hard-working participants we were able to accomplish all of our goals... and more!!!
Both days, we were able to spend our mornings working side-by-side with the young men and women involved in the program as we weeded, planted, made soil and harvested produce... in the hot, hot sun! By the time lunch came around I was ready to pass out! But not the energetic youth in this program. They eagerly returned to the greenhouse to eat their lunches and enjoy their free-time to its fullest after a hard morning's work:-) We really enjoyed watching the boys and girls interact with one another and play games. We also really appreciate those of you who took pity on us and answered our questions concerning your thoughts and feelings on the program. Your honest insights and thoughtful answers showed us just how invested in the program you truly are.
We also appreciate your patience with us as we observed and took part in your afternoon activities. The program counselors do a wonderful job of organizing a variety of games and activities to keep everyone engaged. The FFT youth are learning a variety of enrichment skills from interpersonal communication to team building, to nutrition and cooking.
Thank you so much for letting us be part of your amazing community of young men and women this past week. It was very impressive to see such a diverse group of adolescents (many who are put into an environment that may be unfamiliar or uncomfortable for them) taking on so many challenges and hard work. You should all be very proud of your many efforts and accomplishments!!! We wish you all the best as you complete the next few weeks, and in your future endeavors!
Sincerely,
Mandy Barber, and all of the Widener University MSW Volunteers :-)
Both days, we were able to spend our mornings working side-by-side with the young men and women involved in the program as we weeded, planted, made soil and harvested produce... in the hot, hot sun! By the time lunch came around I was ready to pass out! But not the energetic youth in this program. They eagerly returned to the greenhouse to eat their lunches and enjoy their free-time to its fullest after a hard morning's work:-) We really enjoyed watching the boys and girls interact with one another and play games. We also really appreciate those of you who took pity on us and answered our questions concerning your thoughts and feelings on the program. Your honest insights and thoughtful answers showed us just how invested in the program you truly are.
We also appreciate your patience with us as we observed and took part in your afternoon activities. The program counselors do a wonderful job of organizing a variety of games and activities to keep everyone engaged. The FFT youth are learning a variety of enrichment skills from interpersonal communication to team building, to nutrition and cooking.
Thank you so much for letting us be part of your amazing community of young men and women this past week. It was very impressive to see such a diverse group of adolescents (many who are put into an environment that may be unfamiliar or uncomfortable for them) taking on so many challenges and hard work. You should all be very proud of your many efforts and accomplishments!!! We wish you all the best as you complete the next few weeks, and in your future endeavors!
Sincerely,
Mandy Barber, and all of the Widener University MSW Volunteers :-)
