TeenReach-Brittany Weatherby

Brittany Weatherby
December 5, 2012
Project Link
1. Where the student volunteered their time
• I volunteered my time at Charleston TeenREACH at 845 18th St. Charleston IL.

2. How the service activity reflected concepts learned in the current FCS course (FCS 4840), and/or other FCS courses
• In all of my FCS classes, I always learn about families who are poor, homeless, and who are barley surviving. These families are considered to be disadvantage families. Volunteering my time at the TeenREACH Center, I realized that disadvantage families really exist. Majority of the children who attend this program is disadvantage in some type of way. I spoke to a little girl, who told me their living situation. She did not feel bad about it; she actually loved sharing items with her younger siblings. She was content and okay with that. This lets me know that even though children do struggle on a day-to-day basis; they still have a good spirit and can do well in school. All of the children are doing well in school, despite their living conditions. All a child need is support, and this program offer that and so much more.



3. How the student networked with other professionals while participating in the activity and what they GAINED from that networking
• At the TeenREACH Center, there are approximately 10-15 students that attend there as an after school program. They range from different ages.  The students networked very well with the professionals. CJ, who is the coordinator of the program, has a great bond with each of them individually.  They can talk to him on a personal level, and also laugh and play with him on a friend level. They have much respect for him. There is also a lady who also helps with the program. They also consider her as their role model and friend. The adolescences gain a lot self-worth by committing to this program.  The program teaches them how to treat others, how to think rational about difficult situations, and it boost their self-esteem. Not only do they gain helpful techniques that will help them with their schoolwork, friends, and family, but they also gain techniques that will stick with them throughout their lifetime.

4. The potential effect the service activity and/or the service organization can have (or does have) on the community
• I think this has a good effect on community because the children are learning life long lessons at the center. When the children leave school, they go straight to the center, so therefore, they do not have time to get into trouble after school.  This program shows the children that people do care about their well-being.  The more time the children spend doing something constructive with their time, the less likely they are committing a crime within the community.  If more people from the community volunteer their time, the more successful the program will become. Overall, I think this program is needed in all communities. It is a great program, which consist of great individuals who care about helping someone who is in need.


5. A general reflection on the assignment (e.g., reactions, feelings, life lessons)
• I like this assignment. It was an eye opener for me. I never really volunteer my time to help people who are in need. I will continue to volunteer at the TeenREACH Center as much as I can. I enjoyed talking to the children, and helping them with their homework. I love being a good role model to children who are younger than me. It makes me proud to help other people who are in need. I realized that a little conversation could have an impact on a person life.