This guest post is written by Maureen Devlin, whom recently attended our Starry Starry Night Gala recognizing Manchester Mayor Ted Gatsas and Cassandra Gatsas with 2013 Lifetime of Service Award.
On Saturday, March 30th, I went to a wonderful fundraiser for City Year New Hampshire called Starry Starry Night. My husband’s organization supports City Year and that’s why I had the chance to attend the lively, positive event at the beautiful Wentworth by the Sea hotel located on New Hampshire’s seacoast.
City Year’s Whole School Whole Child model matches current research and study related to teaching children well. The commitment, care and energy that the young volunteers bring to schools with considerable need are outstanding and necessary. The gains made are inspiring.
I believe that this program has tremendous potential for growth as not only does the program serve children in need, but the program also serves young adults too by offering a peaceful and productive way to serve their country and learn at the same time. It is a perfect post-high school or post-college endeavor for the right young adults.
If you’re looking for an organization to support with donations small and large, I recommend City Year. Also if you work in a system with great need, I suggest you look to City Year as one solution with regard to supporting your students with strength. As a veteran teacher of 27 years who has been exposed to numerous ideas and actions related to education reform, it seems to me that City Year is one of the best ideas I’ve witnessed. I hope you’ll make the time to learn more and share your thoughts and ideas regarding this organization.
Dear Maureen – What a terrific post and clear explanation of City Year’s purpose and its impact on not only school children but on the young adults that give a year of service. I agree wholeheartedly with your thought that City Year is a wonderful way for our young adults to serve their country. I’ve been involved with City Year for two years now as the parent of a corps member, and I often refer to City Year as a “peaceful military” for the way that City Year regiments its positivism in the class room and in the City Year office. The wisdom, maturity, and compassion my son has gained through this program are immeasurable. He had all of these qualities (and more) and City Year gave him a place to share and build on his ideals.