Day Two: Lighthouse Youth Services

This morning we visited a place called Lighthouse Youth Services. Two very dedicated women greeted us and led our group to their warehouse. There were furniture on one side and containers filled with just about everything from sponges to blankets sitting on shelves on the other. We took a seat and was introduced to everything Lighthouse had to offer to their community. The range of things they offer is surprising and inspiring. They work with youth on getting employment, housing, and even psychiatric help and ask for absolutely nothing in return. After their introduction, we went to work on getting 128 bags of essentials for them to give out to those in need. One of the women went on to tell us that they plan to make the goal of wiping out youth homelessness by 2020 a reality. With that kind of support and optimism in this community, it made me feel hopeful. I'm hopeful for those who have been helped by Lighthouse and those who will soon. Knowing there are people who want these individuals to go out a succeed regardless of prior struggles and doubts makes me happier than I can express in words. I left Lighthouse with a newfound appreciation of everything I have and a new motivation to join the cause to fight childhood poverty.

-Tavina from Cincinnati's Child

Making grab bags at Lighthouse for the young adult homeless community.

During our second day of service, we as a group decided to stop by one of Cincinnati's parks. While we were there we ended up bonding with each other as a group. The park visit was more like a visit for us to relax & to take a break but also to explore Cincinnati & to see the different landscapes & sceneries that it have to offer. At the park we took group photos & lots of selfies,  & played a few games. We also saw a building that resembled Ayers hall & got a chance to see a nice big view of Cincinnati. Overall the park visit was fun, enjoyable, relaxing, & also a great experience.

- Asya from Cincinnati's Child

Escapades at Eden Park.

Enjoying the beautiful 70 degree weather.

After lunch, we headed over to the USBank Boys and Girls Club of greater Cincinnati. It was immediately obvious that volunteering in this club would require much more energy, as it was around 18,000 sq ft compared to the Espy club rounding out at only 6,000 sq ft. Some challenges surrounding this included more kids (which means more screaming...) to try and connect with, and also adjusting to a different, less communal atmosphere. For example, in Espy, all of the children for the most part lived on the same street and attended the same school; here, many schools and neighborhoods were represented, and according to one little girl, there were new children coming and "old" children leaving each day, leaving little stability in the classrooms. We split up into groups of 4 or 5 to work with a different age group than we did the day before. It was "Fun Friday," so the day consisted of paper airplane competitions, dance parties, and a visit from a Harlem Globetrotter! Overall, it was an exhausting but very rewarding evening!

-Victoria from Cincinnati's Child

In front of one of the many colorful murals at the USB Club.