Girls Only Group at Berry Creek Middle School

Sixth graders from the Girls Only Group at Berry Creek Middle School shared their program high points at their end of session celebration. The program is one of The Youth Foundation’s After School Enrichment activities. Alejandra and Marisol loved the self defense classes. “I have a lot of weapons from shoes, to nails, to keys to protect myself. My voice is the strongest way I can show my strength and personal power,” described Marisol in a clear, strong tone.

Arlene liked planting flowers that represented the patience needed to grow friendships. When she showed her older sister, who is the firstborn in the family what she learned in the Martial Arts class, she thought it was really funny to see Arlene so strong!

Briceida enjoyed the relaxation of yoga, learning how to protect herself, and knowing the importance of liking herself. Girls that before this program were merely acquaintances are now Briceida’s friends.

Steffania and Karina both found the yoga to be relaxing and peaceful. Steffania especially liked the Dove video identifying that . . . “the beauty that is inside us matters the most. Before I was just Alex’s sister, now girls know me by my name, Steffania. You can make friends that stay your friends your entire life.”

Abigail liked all of the activities in the girls program, but her favorite part of the after school programs is soccer with Coach Lee.

Marbeth thought the stretching in yoga was especially relaxing. She related the difference from elementary to middle school –taking seven classes in one day and getting to know some new girls has opened a new world for her.

Dayanna described several tokens that she carries with her as a reminder of many messages learned in the Girls Only Group: a band-aid to symbolize healing any problem with time and care, a toothpick to remember to “pick” good choices and pick positive solutions, glue to stick together when times are tough, and a rubber band as a reminder to stay flexible in friendships.

Student recommendations to improve the program? Dayanna and Alejandra think the program should run the entire school year. Thank you to Ms. Narda, Ms. Nita, Ms. Aliria and the great Interns for contributing to the strength and smarts of BCMS girls. The seventh grade girls will start their eight week Girls Only program in January.

Gypsum Elementary goes swimming

Last Thursday Lee Jones asked if I was busy. Without really thinking I quickly said "Just desk work, why?' Lee responded, "We need one more person to help take the Gypsum Elementary kids to the Rec Center for swimming." I agreed to do it, not having a clue what I was in for. Don't get me wrong, I work for The Youth Foundation and it's not because I don't like children, I love them, but 30 4th and 5th grade girls at one time was a harsh reality: I raised 3 boys. Walking over to the center from school was fun. I remember several years ago when The Youth Foundation and volunteers built the path...by the way, it needs some repairs. The real awakening was herding the girls into the locker room for changing into swim suits. Backpacks, parkas, hats, shoes, towels, clothes, e-v-e-r-y-w-h-e-r-e. Somehow they all managed to collect their own belongings, packing them off to the "Birthday room" where they promptly re-scattered everything on the floor. But, now the fun began. Watching the boys and girls jump into the lazy river, swim around, daring each other to slide or jump was worth it all. I love to photograph the fun our Youth Foundation kids have and, expecting some good photo-ops, I remembered to bring my camera. 45 minutes later the whistle blew and the chaos started all over again. This time I'd have to say it was at least twice as bad, especially since Deb Dutmer, who's done this before, had to leave early, posting me all alone to referee. Not only were all the girls trying to share 4 showers and hairdryers at once but now the floor was covered in sopping wet towels and bathing suits. I don't know if it was quite as hectic in the boys locker room but the pitch level had to be something a bit more tolerable.

I'd comment on getting everyone to the buses, cars and back to school but I'll leave that logistical nightmare up to Lee.

And one more thing for Lee, next time, "I'm busy." - Susan Milhoan, Director of Development