1.
I feel that the theme of Intervention which was highlighted in the WOWO narritive of Greece can relate to my service learning experience at Canal Alliance. On page 182, the word intervention is define as "interruption an action that breaks a pattern and opens up new possibilities". This relates to Canal Alliance because the goal of Canal Alliance is to aid those in need that live in the Canal and to help educate the children of those in need in ad effort to "interrupt" and break the cycle of poverty. Canal Alliance is only possible with the help of many and it reminded me of "The Great Toilet Paper Debate" as found on page 173. In this short story about alternatives to toilet paper the solution/s were found by by everyone who is involved in the story and an alternative would not have been found had the group not worked together to make a point of finding an alternative. I feel that this is true of Canal Alliance as each member of the organization plays a role in making a better future possible for those that the organization helps.
2.
Just like any non-profit organization the Goal of Canal Alliance is to help and aid its clients. To break a cycle of poverty and create opportunities for those that may not have them otherwise. Canal Alliance helps those who live in the Canal District in San Rafael, California. It is special because it goes beyond simply providing aid. it teaches and provides the tools needed for self-betterment, for a brighter future.
3.
When Reading the WOWO Narrative "From Hero to Host" as based in Columbus, Ohio I felt that the overall World Cafe' and Art of Hosting Idea reminded me of something that Carlos' from CYO mentioned a lack of during my interview with him. Carlos says that "there seems to be a lack of cohesiveness and communication between Canal residents and organizations as well as the organizations themselves" I feel that the different organizations that serve the Canal may be asking the wrong question, just like the people of Columbus were in the healthcare story on page 202 of WOWO, "Phil said, In all the forty years I've worked within the health care system, I've never been in that question (Have you ever been involved in a conversation about the purpose of the health care system) and I've never heard anyone ask that question." I feel that the organizations of the Canal may be asking the wrong question about the purpose of their organization and feel that if they did ask that question that different organizations would have a more cohesive approach when catering to the needs of Canal residents.
A Journey Not Yet Finished
ReplyDelete"Congrats!', "You've made it!", "You are done with school!". These are the phrases you will hear for a couple months after today. I am not trying to say that these phrases are not deserved, you HAVE made it. Most of you have been attending some sort of schooling for at least 16- 17 years! That is a long time, school and education has become a large part of your life. And no I am not just talking about the academic work that goes with school but the social life; the friends you've made, the many sporting events you've attended and the friendships you will take with you far into your future. But I am hear to tell you that you are not done, your journey is not over, you are going to continue your "schooling" for the rest of your life.
We are continuously learning whether we are conscience of it or not. One of the most important things we learn in life is how to interact with others. This starts as soon as we are born and we are challenged each and everyday when it comes to working with others, knowing others boundaries, and helping others. Helping others is what makes our world a positive one. One of the most important life lessons I have accomplished is volunteering and helping at Bahia Vista Elementary school in the Canal of San Rafael. The children their are of lower income families and predominantly from the Hispanic community. Volunteering at Bahia not only helped the children but it helped shape me as a person. I learned so much more about myself helping others and I think it is something that everyone should experience. Learning about yourself and and getting to know yourself is one of the best life lessons.
So as you leave this chapter in your life behind remember what you have learned and know that you are never done learning. Make connections with people, go outside your comfort zone, help others. These ideas will help shape your life and you as a person. Congratulations class of 2012. You've made it!
Kailey Steele