Engaging K-3rd Graders: The future is with our youth

As a parent and community advocate, I find this moment incredibly concerning. Federal upheaval and the abandonment of our collective responsibility generates unprecedented uncertainty and feelings of abandonment. Setting aside my lifelong belief in the critical need for continuous improvement at all levels (personal and collective), actions that undermine our national investment in education will have multi-generational costs in the form of personal confidence, belief in the American dream, and the basic cultivation of educational motivation that stems from a robust network of educational supports.

While I can't speak for the community, I hear and sense the following...

As neighbors:

• Our concerns are real.

• National decisions that undermine education "here" and "everywhere" do not align to our values or our belief in people.

• Our community of leaders, dreamers, contributors, educators, families, and neighbors is being challenged as we seek our path to a better future.

• We will not give up on our community. In particular, we will not ignore the voice of experienced older adults or the immense potential of local youth.

credit: Matt Roth Photography

What can we do? How do we find inspiration in this moment of history to advance the extradentary potential of our human community?

Local action.... In the words of the "Mandalorian" (a popular series within the Star Wars franchise), "this is the way"....

Growing up in the 1980's, I remember the old saying "Think Globally, Act Locally". While this wisdom was applied to the advancement of environmental stewardship, it's relevant to many facets of community life - including intergenerational moments that strengthen youth literacy.

At EC-GNH, we are proud to be expanding opportunities for local action at a time when educational systems and support pathways are being challenged. This program has its own voice, its own dedicated team of volunteers, and its own service process. However, it shares a common foundation of neighbors helping neighbors with all programs stewarded by Interfaith Volunteer Care Givers of Greater New Haven.

We need your help.

Today and every day.

Now more than ever.

Reach out and contribute like it matters... Because it does!