“Overcoming poverty is not a task of charity, it is an act of justice. Like Slavery and Apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings. Sometimes it falls on a generation to be great. YOU can be that great generation. Let your greatness blossom.”

-Nelson Mandela

 

Today was Aid and Development day and we started our day off with an academic seminar where the groups were given two articles, one supporting aid and the other against aid. We then came up with a skit and debate to portray what each of the articles highlighted.

We were also granted two field trips to learn about the ways in which resources can impact the trajectory of development. Our first field trip was to “Mujeres Ambientalistas”. There we got the chance to make paper from organic compost. We also visited, Fundacion Cristal, the site where our Community Action Project will be done to learn about the ways in which our project can have the greatest impact on our intended community.

As the leader of the day, it was my responsibility to ensure that everything went smoothly with the group. I expected it to be challenging, however I was happy at how natural it all felt.

Today our group was granted with the opportunity to give a shout out to our family and loved ones. Below are the names of the students and their personalized shout outs.

 

KhaAsia: “Dad and Sharif I love you! How’s life without me? I miss you and I’ll see you soon.”

Kayon: “Thanks a lot Tyze and I hope you’re enjoying your summer.”

Jesus: “How much do you miss me?”

Marquis: “Love you mom! Hope you’re doing well and keep my room clean.”

Najeeda: “Hi guys! I miss you and I love you.”

Priscilla: “I love ya. I miss you too. I’m good. Tell Austin and Justina I miss and love them.”

Jade: “Mom I love you. I’m safe and I’ll see you soon.”

Keyara: “Mom I love you and I’m still alive!”

Nayirah: “Hey mom! I miss you and I’m still alive!”

Mariela: “ Hi dad. <3 Break legs! School of Rock! Rhyn, I hope rehearsals are going well and that you’re healthy. Rosalia, I miss you buddy. I got you a present! Love you guys!”

Frank: “I miss you and buy me shoes!”

Jamal: “Hey mom! I love you and I’ll see you soon!”

Vanessa: “I love you guys and I miss you. Take care of my Bella for me. Have Wendy’s ready for me and don’t worry because I’m safe.”

Daphnie: “Hey mommy and daddy! Hi Gregg, Stephanie and Gumma! I’m safe in Nicaragua and I’m having a lot of fun. Nicaragua is so colorful and I’m learning a lot here. I miss the food at the house!”

Alex: “I love you, I miss you and I’ll see you soon!”

Theresa: “ Buy me Jello Fries and Kekeli, I miss you!”

Sebastian: “ I miss you! I’m expecting a Nutella cake when I get back, thanks!”

Tonia: “Hey guys. Miss you lots and can’t wait to see you! Xoxo”

SB: Nicargaua is great and we’re having so much fun! Counting down the days until we see again! Xoxoxo

– Tonia Bain

 

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