“As a volunteer I have been able to work with many different kids and hear stories from other volunteers about the kids they work with. To tell you honestly this group of kids have adapted quickly and very well to this program. The amount of resounding praises we have received from them such as “we love G2” and “I can’t wait till next week” and “I love playing with you” has reminded me of the reason I volunteer with G2 in the first place. The feedback and enjoyment from the kids are what make it worthwhile and keep all of us volunteers coming back!”
“My favorite memory with my buddy was when he told me I reminded him so much of his papa, at first I was confused at what he meant by that but over time learned how much his papa meant to him. He would share with me how papa makes him laugh and smile, how they play together and how he loves getting to talk to papa and watch the bills with him. I learned from my buddy that because I made him laugh and smile that he really enjoyed it and he loved his papa so much so I thought it was great that even in our short time together I was able to make such a bond with him!”
“I can’t wait to go to G2 today!”
“I love G2! Will you be back tomorrow?”
“When I think of this impact, one student in particular stands out in my mind. This child is no stranger to a busy home life. With a single parent at home and 6 children in addition to himself under one roof I find that he sometimes feels lost in the mix. While this student is outgoing, he has never been one to open up about himself much and he seems to keep a lot of his emotions bottled up on the inside until they are pouring out. Michelle Wood quickly came to recognize his struggles and welcomed him with open arms- regardless of the circumstances of his day. G2 was so helpful for him. In the short half hour the students spent upstairs, this child built a relationship with not only his buddy but Michelle as well. He felt safe and cared for and their sessions drastically effected his mood. He transformed from feeling angry and resentful to feeling excited, proud, and most importantly loved. This program gave him the opportunity to have individualized attention for an extended period of time- something that is difficult to obtain in both his home life and in the classroom. It allowed him to lead the way and make the decisions for activities and it allowed him to express himself in new ways- through art, writing, conversation, and play.”
“I volunteer with G2 because I enjoy working and playing with kids, especially those who may not have enough of it out of school. The entire school community seems friendly and kids show their gratitude and enjoyment regularly.”
“Perhaps the biggest impact of G2, however, has been the opportunity to bond with another adult and to build a relationship built on trust and respect. Many of my students have any combination of busy home lives; multiple siblings; a single parent household; parents who work nights; family who is incarcerated. Each of these home stressors can impact their attitudes toward school, adults, and life in general on a day to day basis. With G2 I saw my students gaining trust. I saw that they felt valued, loved, and appreciated. I saw even the quietest of students open up and share things about themselves. I saw them gain confidence.”
All donations are used to promote and support training and activities that build relationships and to enhance the capacity of the G2 programs. Every little bit helps our children do better in school, build strong relationships, and be ready for college, work and life! YOU can make a difference with your donation!
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