The orientation at Esquela Vieau was a very positive experience for me. I can't wait to get started with what seems to be a great volunteer program. I got nothing but smiles from all the children and faculty members of the school. The orientation was to the point and got me really excited to begin working with everyone. As I am an Art major I intend on focusing on the arts and crafts aspect of the schedule. I don't remember the name of the woman in charge of the arts and crafts class but she seemed very friendly and I hope and can work with her. The kids are making a gratitude quilt right now in which they create one square that represents one thing they are grateful for. This is a great idea and I hope that I can work on it with them.
I have volunteered in a similar school on 35th street in which the vast majority of the children spoke Spanish as a first language and many of them spoke English very well. I always admired these children for their ability to speak two languages at such a young age. My mother is from Belgium and she spoke French to me as much as possible as I grew up. I think that this is a very good thing for a child because it helps them to realize the vast cultural diversity of the world at a young age.
As I said before I volunteered at a similar school when I was 18. That was an excellent experience for me. I got so much out of giving back to the community and everyone was very grateful for the help. I have always wanted to go back to that school, but haven't seemed to find the time. This is a great opportunity for me, and once it is over I plan on continuing to volunteer. I expect it to be just as gratifying of an experience at Esquela Vieau as it was at the 35th st. school.
