By Karen McCall | Project Leader
This year's weather seems to have prolonged the march of color through the trees here, and invoked our young EarthKeepers fascination with them. Thanks to your support, we continue to hold this program at 3 Durham and 3 Orange county elementary schools, making a big impact on students lives.
Madeline, one of our veteran students, was so fascinated when she found three beautiful leaves while waiting at the bus stop one morning. She saved them to share with Crystal, one of our mentors, who had shared her fondness of leaves with the EarthKeepers. Crystal said, "She was excited to show me how beautiful and unique each leaf was. We were able to talk about why she thought each leaf made the different colors and how cool fall is!"
The story touched my heart as I thought about how many sessions Madeline has been with us and just how much she has grown. She went from appearing timid being outside and not as tuned into what was around her just like most kids her age, to bringing in leaves that caught her attention while waiting to go to school. She was shy when it came to participating in group activities, yet this session, not only did she eagerly want to participate, but volunteered to lead a group game! How lucky we were to witness this growth and hope it spreads in other aspects of her and others lives that we don't get to see.
Denise, the lead counselor for our program, asked Madeline a few questions about her experience in the EarthKeepers program. When asked what her favorite part of the program was, she replied, "you get to see birds, and go outside, and learn about nature." Madeline said her favorite memory was, "doing the challenges and marking them on our cous sticks." We challenged the students with activities to hone the skills we taught. Once they completed one, they got a mark on their stick and received another challenge. Students could continue getting harder challenges as they progressed. They LOVED the sticks, found their own to use, and really took pride and ownership in them. I don't think they realized they were learning at the same time. Thank you for your continued support that enables us to connect students, like Madeline, to nature, helping them gain confidence and grow as the seasons change.
As we come to the end of 2015, we are thankful for your generosity that allows us to reach so many and impact their lives and our community for the better. We send out best wishes for a wonderful holiday season to you and Happy New Year. Please consider a year end donation so we can expand our reach to students in need this coming year.
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