The Trophy Project:Part 2

Today was the big day! Our last day of "Starfish Corps" at Shaw. The kids were so incredibly excited about the celebration we had planned for them. I think little Marquis asked 11 times, "How many more minutes until Starfish?". I can honestly say that they have never been that excited to come to Starfish before.

We had pizza, water ice, music and cute decorations and paper chains that some of the girls and I made last week. After their feast, we handed out their awards....trophies!

The kids didn't know about the trophies, so everyone gasped when we brought them out. The last person to receive her trophy could barely sit in her sit because she couldn't wait to get it!

Some silly faces and some very excited kids. Thank you to everyone dropped off trophies. My teammates and I and especially our kids, are so grateful!

The Trophy Project: Part I

So, I've been collecting trophies for the many students that I work with in City Year. I reached out to the wonderful Irish dance families in my area and they went above and beyond! I received over 800 trophies and medals that I have cleaned up and given out to my fellow corps members to use with their students as well.

City Year is a non-profit organization unites young people of all backgrounds for a year of full-time service, giving them the skills and opportunities to change the world. As tutors, mentors, and role models, these young leaders make a difference in the lives of children and transform schools and neighborhoods all across Philadelphia, as well as 18 other City Year sites across the country.

I am currently serving my first year as a corps member at Anna H. Shaw Middle School in Southwest Philadelphia. The students that I work with are amazing and have left their mark on me in a big way. I wanted to give them something to help show them I proud I am of all of their hardwork throughout the year and this led to the "Trophy Project".

Jason, who serves at South Philadelphia High School was the first corps member to receive trophies. He recently hosted a chess tournament and the participants and winners were given trophies and medals donated by Irish dancers! (Jason is in the center wearing those signature CY khakis)