I joined the Leadership Program, for my 1st term option at school. As part of the leadership program, we were to go to the Elementary School and mentor a student for the day. I chose to mentor a little kindergarten boy who has severe Autism. I worked and learned along with him throughout the day. it was amazing, and a great learning experience for me to see and experience hands-on as to the challenges and difficulties some people face throughout day-to-day life. This little boy taught me so much. He taught me patients, understanding of differences, and most importantly not to be judgmental of behavior. this little boy's behavior is his way of communication, for example: jumping up and down laughing was him communicating happiness and "yes" that is what i need or want; turning away, making a loud noise or laying on the floor was his way of communicating unhappiness and "no" that is not what I need or want. I learned that, Behavior is Communication. As well as, seeing the others reaction was very interesting, those that I see as super nice and accepting, had troubles accepting the face that he was a bit different, and acted a bit different that we do.
I'll never forget this experience, and I hope to go back and see him later this year!
Another part of the Leadership Program at school was to raise awareness for the homeless and Boyle Street, and to volunteer there for a day. I as a student of the Leadership Program with from class to class at school talking to students about the importance of helping those who have no resources, food, or homes. We, in the program, got donations of clothing and food to take along with us to Boyle Street for the homeless. On the day we went to volunteer at Boyle Street, we were there making soup and sandwiches all morning, the serving them to the homeless for lunch. Once lunch was over, and clean up was done, we had the opportunity to go and visit and talk with some of the homeless. It is amazing the misconceptions we have of the homeless. For the most part, there people do not want to be there. But due to circumstances beyond their control they have to be. There were some very interesting conversations and awareness made. Most of them were very thankful, and loved to have us there. There were a lot of "God bless yous" said to us. I am very happy I had the opportunity to do this, and have matured and become a better person because of it. I look forward to going back there some day and helping out again.
" A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way."
~ John C. Maxwell
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
2 comments:
This is great stuff Sihing. Remember that a picture is worth a thousand words. It would be nice to have some photos to document your projects so your readers can share the experience more completely.
I do have some pictures of me with the kindergarden kid that i worked with, but I would have to get permission from his aid in order to post them publically on the website. As for the homeless shelter, I did not take my camera as we were advised not to take electronics, and I can look through the schools picture folder for some pictures.
Thank you!
Post a Comment