Our residential scholars choose to partner with Gateway 180, a shelter devoted to reversing homelessness  by connecting women, children and families to vital resources. In preparation for their visit, scholars bought supplies and prepared 70 brown bag lunches for the shelter to distribute  throughout the week. 

Then on Saturday the 11th, they provided child care while adult clients attended parenting classes and nutrition and skills workshops. The scholars came prepared with a whole host of activities from coloring and bubbles to a "cookie walk" and music that prompted a spontaneous dance-off. They had a fabulous time interacting with the kids and ended the morning with a brown bag lunch of their own and a time to reflect on the experience at the City Garden.

Learn more about Gateway 180

On Saturday, Hope Prep scholars lent their time and efforts towards the Service Block Party hosted by the BHGH International Office to benefit other non-profits in the area and the people they serve. Groups of scholars teamed up with adult volunteers to create baskets for Room at the Inn and help them prepare for an upcoming fundraiser, make cards with Cards for Hospitalized Kids, spend time with seniors at the Life Care Center, and stuff backpacks with supplies to donate for  Project Backpack.

 

Those who visited the Life Care Center off-site had the opportunity to paint nails and play Bingo while conversing with the seniors living there, including a resident  who is relearning to walk in order to return home. One volunteer shared how it helped to put into perspective the things they so often take for granted in life. Afterwards, the scholars rejoined the groups at the office and dove into organizing and card creation.

 

In her observations of the dedication that characterized the construction of the cards, a staff member captured the spirit of the day: "It was  amazing to see how creative and thoughtful the scholars were in making cards! They spent so much time planning their messages and making sure they were truly meaningful. I hope the kids who receive them feel our warmest wishes through all of the cut out hearts, rocket ships, fortune tellers, superheroes, and so much more!"