Our 2013 ZooMates program is up and
running.This year we have partnered
with The Eigel Center for
Community-Engaged Learning at Xavier University to
provide weekly mentoring opportunities for 22 elementary students from St.
Francis de Sales.During our first
encounter, mentees and their parents were introduced to their college mentors
at our annual Meet and Greet.A week
earlier at the mentor training, I had alerted the college students that their
first encounter with the mentees could be “awkward” and that they should be
prepared to keep the conversation going.I’m happy to report, they were all chatting up a storm.Mentees and mentors not only shared their
hopes for future successes but they also shared their greatest concerns about
being in the program.By far, the
mentees were most worried about animals at the Zoo escaping their habitats and
running around wild during one of their visits!Smiles and laughter filled the cafeteria as we got to know each other
through interviews and games.The evening ended with everyone enjoying a
meal together.
On our next encounter, the kids and I
traveled to Xavier University where we met up with our mentors and equipped
ourselves with goggles and gloves in order to explore the world of Chemistry
with Dr. Mullins.Liquids boiled,
flowers exploded, colors combined and evil gummy bears were dissolved as the
ZooMates looked on with excitement and wonder.
I just have to say, I love this
program.Being with the children as they
build positive relationships, explore their community and delve into hands on
educational activities is what keeps me so passionate about my work with Faces
without Places.Stay tuned for more adventures;
our next encounter will be at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens!
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