(Left to Right) Ananda Brown, Shayna Pullen, London Strother
(Not Pictured) Jaiden Dallas, Sajirah Willis
My community service was conducted at the Boys and Girls Club in Orange, VA. On Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, myself and 4 other high school students went to the B&GC to conduct my diversity mentoring program called Inclusive Kids. The program is focused on tutoring and teaching the 4th and 5th graders at the club about diversity, equity, inclusion, and leadership and how to implement it within their community in the future. In order for the program to be successful, I wanted to learn about their experiences within school and the community, tying them to diversity and equity. We participated in different cultural activities through the course of 10 days.
This photo showcases the email where I first contacted Mr James Miller, the Boys and Girls Club Director, about becoming my supervisor for the community service.
The overall goal of the Inclusive Kids mentoring program is to foster an inclusive and compassionate environment where the 4th and 5th graders are able to learn about the value of diversity, develop empathy, and cultivate a sense of belonging. Through mentorship, hands-on activities, and guided discussions, the program aims to encourage respect for different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives, empowering the next generation of OCPS students to embrace diversity and contribute to a more harmonious and understanding community
The impact and legacy of my community service mentoring program extends far beyond the time I was able to spend with the kids. By instilling the importance of diversity, empathy, and respect in young minds, I was able to plant the seeds for a more inclusive future. Through the meaningful connections forged between mentors and mentees, the 4th and 5th graders are empowered to embrace differences and foster a sense of belonging in their community and classrooms. The lessons learned through this program create a lasting ripple effect, as these young individuals carry forward the values of understanding, kindness, and unity, helping to build stronger, more compassionate societies for generations to come.