By Evelind Schecter | Program Leader
We joined the global heat wave for a month of temperatures over 40 Degrees Centigrade (104 F), thankful for plenty of fans and bags of ice. By early May, scattered rain cooled things down enough to contemplate the start of school.
Everyone gathered back at Warm Heart, with a week to prepare for the new term. We started with a two-day English Camp to clear out the summer doldrums and get the brains active again. Finn and our volunteer, Geof, set the pace with a series of brain teaser games and English conversation practice: general fun and a good way to learn.
This year, the head of the Children's Home, Mali, is working with Soda, (manager of Access to Care for the Elderly and Disabled,) to follow the thematic programs set by Social Services; currently focused on Child Protection Rights.
They have set up workshops with the staff and children to ensure the concepts are implemented effectively. This includes learning positive ways to encourage good behavior.
As part of this initiative, the students have agreed to take on more responsibility to govern themselves and participate in key decision-making processes. Each dorm is set up with a team and leader. For example, telephone usage is an ongoing contention and the students have been asked to set the active hours and stick to them.
The team leaders report every Friday on their progress with following the rules they have agreed upon, and getting chores done without being reminded. The students are losing their shyness and are suggesting ideas to encourage everyone to work together effectively.
We also asked the parents (or surrogate relatives) to participate actively in supporting the Warm Heart organization. They agreed to set up small groups to rotate through every Saturday, to check in on the children and help with maintenance and repairs.
We're excited to have everyone looking ahead to keep the Children's homes evolving and strong.
Thank you for your enduring support, making this all possible!
Dana, Evelind, Michael, and the Warm Heart Family
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