A ton of families came out and were talking about what a big impact APCH has had on their lives and that they don't want it to change. I mean... at the end of the day I think it's going to be all good. It's still open and there's still a ton of things to do there. However, even talking about change you could really hear the, almost desperation, in the community for support.
Like there was a mom talking about how her daughter had come to APCH since she was 8 years old... and the staff was really important to her. That she would go to the center when she didn't feel like she could work something out with her family or was having problems at school. Her daughter has really excelled - she even got to skip a grade in high school. BUT when she came to APCH the other day and saw some of her favorite staff members no longer worked their she went home and has been sad ever since... doesn't know if she wants to go back... and her Mom is worried she's going to start going down the wrong path.
Another time they were talking about field trips. They're going to start implementing a $10 deposit for field trips for the kids that's refundable... to guarantee the kids show up. I guess they've had problems before budgeting for transportation and field trip spots. One Mom, who looked SO young to me, stood up and looked like she was ready to cry. She said... "I understand you need to do this. My child has missed a couple field trips that she signed up for and its MY fault. I'm a single Mom with four kids and some days when I need to get my daughter to the center at 11 AM I just can't... because of work or the other kids. I'm sorry - I didn't mean to cause problems. I just need more help." It made me wanna cry. I mean - dude, I can barely take care of my cat yo! I can't keep a plant alive in this joint. I can't imagine what it would be like to be a single Mom, with four kids, and not have a lot of resources.
So... yesterday was kinda a bummer. I have to admit I came home and was sorta "over it." Its frustrating when you know people need a lot of help but there's nothing more you can do. I mean - today I'm taking my Mentee Maria to My Chemical Romance.
If you ever want to do ANYTHING for APCH from mentor, to donate a couple bucks, chaperone a field trip, help a homie on some homework... anything - its really fun and they need your help. Check out www.apch.org or - JUST ask me ;)
