Megan Dignan
4/23/13
FCS 4840
Link
Dr. Moyer

Project Link


1. I volunteered at Teen Reach in Charleston, IL.

2. The service activity definitely reflected the concepts of Disadvantaged Families. The children/teens at Teen Reach come from lower income families, and most of them have social,emotional and learning issues. Being sensitive to other people’s families and circumstances is a huge part of FCS and family services. The children at Teen Reach were happy to have the volunteers there and we could all see that Teen Reach  allows them to feel safe and be a care-free.

3. At Teen Reach I spoke to fellow students and the staff in charge. It was really interesting to hear from the staff, because they spend so much time with the children.  I was able to hear about the families Teen Reach helps and the different activities the staff does during the school year and summer months. I gained an inside look into Teen Reach and the children’s lives. The staff told us how they make sure everyone gets a snack and helps the kids do homework. They also explained to me how they use their van to pick up the kids and drop them off when the day is over. It was a really eye-opening experience.

4. I believe Teen Reach is a vital part of the Charleston community. They provide an after school program for kids who need a place to go between 3 and 6 p.m. They help the kids with homework and provide a snack for them. They have arts and crafts, sports equipment, a TV room, a computer room and a study room for the children to use. They also provide transportation for children who need it. Teen Reach is a safe heaven for children who have emotional, social, or physical issues and may not have all the support they need at home. Teen Reach has the potential to change young peoples lives! I believe they bring a positive vibe to the community and encourage families to obtain their services. These kids get opportunities to do well in school and make some friends. This will help boost their confidence and that will lead to a better future for them and their families.

5. I really enjoyed doing this assignment. I think Teen Reach was an eye opener for me personally, because I got to learn about a group of youth in the community on a personal level. A lot of the kids were in middle school and they asked me a lot of questions about myself. They were interested in where I was from and if I liked going to college. I think that I will take what I learned at Teen Reach, and this class, and apply it to my life. We never know what is going on in someone's life, so we should never be quick to judge someone. I think that is important for everyone to follow, but being an FCS professional it is vital I do that. This assignment made me think about the way I react to other people and I think I will continue to live that way from now on.