Kids Now-a-days...

We often find ourselves in a discussion about how quickly kids are growing up and how different things are now days - their bodies, problems, even their games and toys. After spending a day at the Frank Garrett with primarily youth and young teens from ages 9-15 (with a couple of 8 & 9 year olds thrown in) I would make the argument that at their roots kids are exactly the same. Our day was mostly filled playing the newly purchased BOARD GAMES...yes BOARD GAMES. Which are not boring at all. My biggest surprise was that the first game off the shelf was Candy Land played by two 11 year olds, a 10 year old and a 9 year old. It was awesome! Slowly but surely the games were flying off the shelves and the kids were asking AmeriCorps to play and teach them how to play the familiar and unfamiliar games. At one point there was even a debate about the direction that the bishop, in chess, can move.

Outside of the obvious game playing that took place, there was so much more happening. The kids were trying something new, playing well together, sharing, there were no fights over games or turns or any of the other usual 2 minute tantrums, and during a game of Uno there was even some double teaming just to beat me. The older kids were also playing with the younger children. As the day progressed I had a couple of kids ask "Can we do art Miss?". After teaching the fun craft of making "friendship bracelets" to a few girls and boys one of the middle schoolers said to me "This art stuff is fun!" I was beaming inside.

The day ended with "Mr. Jones" (Dante) and I forming a verbal contract with two of the younger boys Nestor and Cody. They were each given a loaner basketball to practice some drills that Dante had shown them down on the court and they will show them to him when we return in the New Year. Their improvement will show how much or if they've practiced at all. If there is improvement, they will gain full ownership of the basketball, if not they will return the basketball and it will remain at the gym. They were told the importance of the handshake and the importance of practice and learning fundamentals in order to be successful in playing. This was pretty important especially since they are on Ms. Nikki's basketball team list :) All of the remaining kids helped to clean up and there was actually a sense of appreciation for not what they experienced today but what they'd been experiencing this entire year.

As the year comes to an end I say thank you to the AmeriCorps, the Urban Connection staff, my husband - Dante, and all the other volunteers that have brought back life to the Frank Garrett and created a loving learning environment for the community!

God is working and WE ARE sharing HIS LOVE through
WORD, ACTION & ATTITUDE!

Exercise Time!

Once a week the kids do different activities. Each week the is always something different, depending on what theme or idea was planned for the week. Last week Mrs. Jennifer, the kids, and I enjoyed an hour of exercise and stretching. At first most of the kids didn't really seem to be into it, but after joining in with them, they seemed to catch on to the idea of doing something new and soon realized they came to like it. Emily one of ours quite little girls wasn't real fund of the activity but soon came to the see that it was fun. Some of the exercises we did were push ups, sit ups, etc. After speaking with some of the kids, I learned that most of them really enjoyed the mat game. Usually, after we exercise and stretch we play a game that causes some thinking, and last weeks game was kind of like follower the leader. Only the difference was that the lead would have to jump from one mat to another in any order until the were none left. We the leader would reach the end the next person in the line would get to be the leader, and so on. It was a game that was not only fun for the kids but also fun for me as well. Although, when it did get to the time when it was my turn, things get a little to difficult and the kids forgot the pattern in which I had went in. Lucky for them Mrs. Jennifer was there to help.

On Thursday we had the kids go on a scavenger hunt. They had to get one partner and go look for the pieces to a headress. If they needed clues, they had to go to one of the AmeriCorps personel and answer the question to get a clue to where the pieces were. Once they got all the pieces, they had to come inside and put the hat together.Then decide which person out the group was going to take home the hat. The kids had such a good time searching for the pieces and were happy when they got to put it together.

FLOWER PENS!

Flower pens GOSH don't I love them. The staff and children at Urban Connection have been making flower pens for Operation Christmas Child. The reason why we are all taking are part in this activity is so we can go out and buy gifts for children in need, so we can help the kids who don't always have a Merry Christmas. The kids at Urban Connection are not only thinking about themselves this Christmas, but about another child their age somewhere around the world who doesn't have the things that they might have. The kids at Urban are so excited to make and sell the pens so that they can go get a nice gift for another child who really needs it.

****One Month In****

This week completed our first month @ Frank Garrett. Overall things have really been well. There has been a wide variety of children of all ages. They all have interacted very well with one another. If there are only younger kids, the older ones find someway to make themselves fit in. It is hilarious watching the kiddos shoot pool. The different formations of holding the pool stick and trying to get the balls in the pockets. Not only that just seeing them trying to break the balls on the first shot. On a more personal level just being able to interact with the kids and build personal relationships with them on an individual basis has been comforting. Trying to get to know each child, their likes and dislikes, their personal strengths and weaknesses. The Frank Garrett is moving on up and we are going to be Better than Ever!!!!!!

Phase 10

I have a new favorite game!!! It's called Phase 10.... I'm sure most of you are familiar with it, but for those who aren't, its a must have for the holiday season. I got the opportunity to play with some of the older kids, along with Mrs. Leslie (who by the way taught us how to play the right way). It's basically a new-age version of Jim Rummy, but the cards look similar to uno cards. There are ten different phases that you have to pass. In order to complete a phase there are a certain sets that you must have. For example, in Phase 1 you have to get two sets of three. (A set is cards that are all the same number i.e three 7's). Once you "phase out" you keep playing until someone gets rid of their hand. At that point whatever cards you have in your hand get counted on your score. The first player to beat Phase 10 with the lowest score wins. I know it may seem like alot, but once you get into the rythm of the game it's awesome! It's the perfect game to play when you want to bring people together or just kill some time. I can't wait to play again so be ready Mrs. Leslie!!! Be blessed and prosperous....
-K. Smith

Freeze Tag!!

So the new favorite outside game to play at UCASA is "freeze tag". For the past two weeks freeze tag was the only game that the kids really wanted to play as soon as they got to UCASA. The most game played before freeze tag was "tag, you it." Most of the older kids had already known about freeze tag, but for the young kids it was a new game that they would really enjoy. The faces the kids make as their playing is to die for! Eduardo, who is one of our youngest and who is the most active when it comes to playing game, make the funnest faces I have ever seen. Now, granted that the kids aren't the best when it come to staying frozen, but they really do enjoy unfreezing the kids who do frezze by going under their legs. They all have a blast and I glad we can all share this experience.

Fall Festival

Last Friday we had a Fall Festival at the Frank Garrett. It was a blast thanks to all of the help we had from Northside Church of Christ and Christian Heritage School. There was a moon bounce, bobbing for apples, face painting, cupcake walk, basketball, and more!

Here are some pictures I wanted to share of the Fall Festival:

The Fall Festival; a great success!!

Blessings,
Julia

Gift of Movement...

Recently our Frank Garrett team started a dance class lead by Mrs. Jennifer Jones. I was curious so I sat in on a session this past Friday. Immediately I was blown away by Jennifer's ability to teach basic dance skills to young girls, most of which have never danced before. She would give them an instruction on how to move their body, tell them what the proper dance term for it was, and then have them put all the moves together to see if they remembered. It was amazing to see how well the girls caught on. If there was someone who wasn't getting it Jennifer wouldn't hesitate to show them what to do. Her movements were so elegant and graceful. You could see that dance isn't just something she knows how to do, but she's gifted to do. The fact that she was able to teach beginners almost an entire dance in less than an hour proves this to be true. I look forward to seeing the girls blossom into skillful dancers, as they allow Jennifer's ray of light to shine through them. Be blessed and prosperous...
-K.Smith

Hello everyone! I want to dedicate this blog to all the volunteers and Urban supporters. Here's to you!

To all of those out there that support Urban Connection, thank you. We would be nowhere if it weren't for all the love you've shown us, and continue to show. God has blessed us greatly by giving us supporters that truly love what Urban is all about. Your donations, prayers, volunteer work, generosity, and love have helped Urban Connection become the great organization it is today. May God bless all of your lives for the wonderful work you have done for Urban. We love you all, and once again, thanks!

Blessings,
Julia

We Get It Big @ Frank Garrett!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Week to week and day to day, there are different experiences. Our numbers are low on some days and awesome and other days. We have dance on Monday and Wednesday, arts and crafts on Thursday and rehearsal for Voices of Hope on Friday. Watching the kids interact with on-another and learn things from each other is amazing. The girls do cheers and the boys join in and show their spirit and how they Gigg-a-lo. My vision is to see Frank Garrett grow and the community participate in the Rec Center like back in the Good Ole Days. We are on our way to the top.....Frank Garrett Community Center is Back and in full effect. Until we meet again....I am Ms Nikki and I'm out!!!!!!

Last thursday was such a good day we took the kids to sunken gardens the kids and i have a alsome time looking at all the different color fish, the different flowers and plants. The urban connection team had made books for the kids so they could have a activity to do on the feild trip we chose to make little books out of color paper. The kids got to draw pictures of what they liked at Suncken Gardens. I was so suprised that some of the kids can actually draw really well and some pictures where so detailed they did better then me at drawing pictures. Overall we had a good time and i cant wait to go again.

Voices of Hope

Last Friday we held our first rehearsal for our childrens choir. So far we have about ten members and everyone seems to be eager to try something new. Singing is something that I love to do so it's exciting to be able to share my gift with the children. This is the first time being in a choir for most of them so they didn't know what to expect. By the end of rehearsal everyone was anxious to learn more, but it was time to go home. Our first performance will be at the Thanksgiving program, November 21 so we're practicing every Friday for 30 minutes. I can't wait to see the fruits of our labor! Please keep us in your prayers us as we take this amazing journey. Be blessed and prosperous...

-K. Smith

Weekend Fun!

We had a group come in this Saturday to help with the kids' playground and our garden. They did a wonderful job and I just wanted to share a picture of our beautiful playground!

Thank you Coker United Methodist Church!

- Julia

Maria!

Recently, I interviewed one of our little girls Maria Guerrero. So here is some information about this wonderful little diva:

Maria's favorite colors are pink and baby blue. She loves to listen to Justin Bieber. Also, she likes to paint her nails. Maria just celebrated her 10th birthday!! She goes to Nelson Elementary and is in the 4th grade. Maria wants to be a teacher when she gets older!

Best Birthday Ever...

What another amazing week here at Urban! National Night out (Oct 5th) was amazinggg. It was really awesome to see everyone in the community come out for this event and it was an awesome time. This week I was able to interview a kid named Johnny. He reminds me a lot of myself when I was his age. I was a big trouble maker and Johnny always seems to make the days more interesting. He's in 5th grade, and his favorite subject is math. His favorite color is blue. His favorite thing to do in his spare time is to hang out with his friends. He also loves to play sports. This kid is amazing at whatever we're playing in the FG on that day. Football, basketball, soccer, whatever it is, this kid loves to do it. His favorite football team is the Dallas Cowboys and his favorite player is Tony Romo. He also loves the Spurs and his favorite player is Tim Duncan. When Johnny gets older he wants to be a police officer. When I asked him what his favorite food is, he couldn't come up with an answer because he loves everything. That's all for now. Cya!

Reaching out to the Youth of Today and Future of Tomorrow

Hello All.... Another week at Urban Connection has come and gone. This week, I had the pleasure of connecting with a very intelligent young lady. Her name is Nikia Nealy. Nikia is 9 years old. She is a 4th grade A/B honor roll student at Oak Hills Terrace Elementary. While communicating with Nikia she expressed several interests. I learned that she really likes Volleyball. Her favorite colors are red, blue and like most Diva's of course hot pink. I asked Nikia is there anyone that she admires. She first asked me what did I mean by that and after explaining to her what I meant, she then said "I admire my MOM". She said, "I admire my Mom because she is always there for me to do all the important things that I need and she will never let me down...I LOVE my MOM!" Nikia also said that she likes coming over to the Frank Garrett Community Center. She said she has lots of fun and we help them with the things they ask us to do. I love being able to be a positive influence on the lives of children and letting them know that you can be whoever or whatever you want to be in life with the right guidance and influences. Thank you Urban for allowing us to make a difference in young lives!!!!!

LORNZE MALAGON
-WHATS UR FAVORITE COLOR? BLUE
-WHATS UR FAVIRITE SHOE TO WARE?JORDAN
-WHATS YOUR FAVORITE TV SHOW?SIMONS
-WHATS YOUR FAVORITE SPORT TO PLAY? FOOTBALL
-HOW OLD ARE YOU? SEVEN
-WHAT GRADE ARE YOU IN?FIRST
-WHATS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD?spaghetti
-WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO FOR FUN? PLAY FOOTBALL

This week I got the opportunity to interview a very special young lady. Her name is Tiareka Woods and this is her first year with Urban Connection. This vibrant young lady is a seventh grader at Irving Middle School. I asked her a few questions about her experience at the Garrett center, and here's what she had to say....

K: Why do you enjoy coming to the Frank Garrett?

T: It's a place where I can come to relax and take away stress from a busy day at school.

K: What are some things that you would like to see done differently here?

T: There's a lot of history here at Garrett, honestly I don't think anything should change. I love it just the way it is!!

K: Why do you think its important to have programs like this for kids?

T: I think it's a good way to help people in the community get to know each other better. Also it helps us to be involved and to stay out of trouble.

Tiareka is wise beyond her years. When I asked her what she wanted to be when she grows up she said that was her favorite question to answer! She wants to be a veterinarian, an artist, and a fashion designer. With the focus and drive she has, I'm confident that it will happen for her. Being around kids like her make me love doing what I do!!

-K. Smith

Ix-chel

This last we were given an assign blog to write. The assignment who to chose a child that attened UCASA and learn a little bit more about them. The child I chose is a sweet little girl named Ix-chel. Since UCASA started Ix-chel and I have became close. Her first language is spanish, and I'm in the process of learning spanish, so Ix-chel has been helping me with my spanish speaking skills.

Some questions I ask her were: 1.What is your favorite drink? 2.What is your favorite TV show? 3.Who is your hero? 4.Who is your best friend? 5.What is your favorite color? 6.What grade are you in? 7.How old are you? 8.What sport do you like to play? 9.What do you like to do for fun? 10.What kind of candy do you like?

Her respones were: 1. Apple juice. 2.Hannah Montana. 3. My dad. 4.You. ( Me, Ms. Sabrina) 5.Red. 6. First grade. 7. Six years old. 8. Soccer. 9. Play with toyes. 10.Chocolate.

This is the completion of another week with Urban Connection. This has been an awesome experience so far. Some days we have lots of children and some days there are just a handful. Next week will be our first official week at Frank Garrett and we are looking forward to the change. This week we prepared for the Grand Event....."Get It Big" @ Frank Garrett. The new and improved. Mrs Leslie and Mrs Jennifer went all out and shopped till they dropped. They purchased new ball, board games, cards, dominoes, ping-pong table, pool table equipment and all sorts of things. We are sooooo.... looking forward to closing this week so we can start our official beginning @ Frank Garrett. I love the interacting with the children. Being able to see different attitudes, behaviors and personalities and deal with it all by being a positive Role Model makes my heart full. I LOVE giving back and being an influence in a child's life. I am Blessed and Blessing others is a JOY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Inventory

The week has come to an end and as always it's been a good one! Monday will be the first official day for Urban Connection-Frank Garrett so we've been doing everything needed to get ready. Yesterday the F.G. crew took time to go through the main storage closet and reorganize everything. My "o.c.d" kicked in immediately because it was a complete mess! There were all sorts of raquets, balls of every kind, and other unusual things. We had to go through and decide what we wanted to keep and what we should get rid of. We also got some new games and supplies (thanks Mrs. Leslie!!!!:D). Things are really coming together. I can't wait for the day when the center is filled with people from all over the community coming just to have great, wholesome fun!!!
-K. Smith

Yesterday was a fun day for the kinder and 1st grade. We made awesome scare crows for the garden. The kids were excited so was I. After we were done the kids put them in the garden and they were all amazed at the way things came out. This was my first time working in the garden. It felt good to be able to connect with the children in a diffrent way. ~Karla

SCARE CROWS, wow the kinder and first,second, and third graders had such a good time making them. I had such a good time making the scare crows with the kids because it was my first time ever making scare crows and some of the first time for some of the kids as well. We had a good time enjoying everyones company.when the kids where done making the scare crows some had no nose others had no fingers but it was cool cause thats the way they wanted to desgin there crows. Before the kids came and i was doing an example crow i was thinking that it was going to be to complicated for the kids to make but im happy it wasnt they did so good.

Frank Garrett

We have been having a great time at the Garrett so far. Everyday, more and more kids are added to our list and it's awesome! Last week, we played kickball in the gym and it's always great to see the kids getting along and just having fun. After that, we played a game of dodgeball; kids vs. adults! That was one crazy game. At the end of the day, we brought out some pinatas that the kids made, and they got to bust them open. I'm so thankful that God has blessed us with every single amazing child that we have at Urban. I can't wait to see the blessings that are still to come!
 -Julia

WOW,LAST WEEK WAS SUCH AN AWESOME WEEK. WE TOOK THE KIDS TO THE LIBRARY ON THURSDAY AND THEY GOT TO HEAR STORIES ABOUT HEROES AND THEIR FAMILY CULTURE. WE MADE AND WORKED ON PINATAS ALL WEEK AND ON FRIDAY WE GOT TO GO TO THE FRANK GARRETT AND BUST THEM OPEN. THE KIDS HAD SUCH A GOOD TIME GETTING THE CANDY AND EVERYTHING. WE ALSO PLAYED KICKBALL,AND DODGE BALL WITH THE KIDS AND I HAVE TO SAY I ENJOYED EVERY MOMENT OF JUST BEING AROUND THE KIDS AND PLAYING WITH THEM.

Rain, rain, PLEASE go away...

How is it going? Another awesome week here at Urban / FG Center, although I must say, this rain has been ridiculous. But despite the weather it's been a lot of fun this week although. I'm still pretty exhausted from all the dodgeball and kickball games that we've had this week. It's been awesome to hang out with the kids at FG and it's pretty awesome to see the relationships that are being built there. It's pretty amazing what a few games of basketball and dodgeball can do to a friendship. It's been two weeks and I feel like I've known these kids for so much longer. The first few days it felt like it would take an act of Congress to get them to listen to whatever we had to say, and now they listen with little to no persuading from us. I look forward to the many more experiences that will come from this. Cya!

A Field Trip to the Library

Yesterday day our kinder and 1st graders and the opportunity to go the the Bazan Library. They were so excited! They got to have books read to them, and they also got to have a tour. As we were leaving a few of the kids said that they would want to go back. When i asked what their favorite part was, they said the section that had the movies , or the computers that had games for them.

GET IT BIG!

Things have been going very well at the Frank Garrett. Although the program doesn't officially begin until October 4, we still go over to the gym everyday. We have kids from all over the neighborhood that come do homework, play, or just hang out. There aren't a lot who come as of now, but the ones that do enjoy it more and more each day. I love to see the ones who have been with Urban interact with kids they just met. This is just the beginning of an amazing journey. I look forward to going along for the ride!
-K.Smith

Living the Life @ Urban......

Hello World, it's just Ms. Nikki again!!!!!! We have completed another week and each week things are just falling into place. We started off @ Garrett with a handful of kids and now we have expanded to almost triple of what we begin with. Everyday we gain new faces and I think that is wonderful. I look forward to the day when there are soooooo many kids and we say "Gosh when are these kids going home".... We face day to day challenges but unfortunately for the kiddos we over power there issues. But I love it because each individual child has their own personality and character. I look forward to the weeks to come and the new kids, new challenges, new supplies/equipment, the fun games and activities. Go Urban!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Doing what I Love........

Hi everyone! My name is Karla, this is my first time here at Urban Connection. As a resident of the Lincoln Heights, it's a pleasure to be able to give back to my community. I love working with kids and helping them become better students. I look foward to what this year has in store for me and my new Urban Family.
- Karla

I'm Excited !!!!!

Hey my Name Is Alexander Isaac ,Im a student Sociology @ The UTSA This is my First year at Urban and working with Ameri Corps. I had a blast the last couple of weeks at Urban its been great working with the kids and spending time with them. I have been humbled by God's mercy for this opportunity to minster and be mistered to/by the kids and people around me. I loved to just be with the kids and let Christ's love flow. I'm so excited for what God has in-store for the Body of Christ @ Urban , and how He will do a tremendous,perfect work in the Staff and In the kids who attend.

First week!

Well, first things first...my name is Josh (nice to meet you). This is my first time serving with the Americorp/ UCSA program, and it's been really awesome so far. I know your thinking, "But dude...it's only been a week." Well I can tell already that this is going to be an awesomeeee year! I have the opportunity to be a part of the Frank Garret Center project, which I am really looking forward to. I've learned a few things already and am looking forward to the things that God wants me to learn throughout this experience. But here are some tips that I've learned in my first week.

1.) If you see someone in a nice button down shirt, jeans, and work boots, DO NOT call him grandpa. It leads to a horrible beat down that you never saw coming.

2.) There is NO such thing as "too much knockout".

3.) If you lose to the kids at a 3-Point shootout, you will NEVER hear the end of it.

Can't wait for the rest of the year! Cyaa.

Round 3

Hey guys it's Julia again! Well, it's time for my 3rd term as an americorps and I'm pumped! So far, it's been great. We haven't had any problems, except for a little blow up yesterday. But thats ok, it happens. Working with the older kids at the Frank Garrett has been fun. Mainly we just like to shoot hoops with the kids and today I think we are playing dodgeball. Once again God has blessed us with a great group of americorps. I love each and every one of them and I'm so excited to see God use their talents for the people in this community. We are so blessed! -Julia

My name is Nia Ruffin this is my first time with urban connection and im so happy to be here.i have grown to most of the kids and some im still getting to know. The kids are such a joy to be around and i love seeing them when i come to urban connection and inter acting with them.

1st Week @ Urban Connections

Hello, my name is Kuquanda "Nikki" Perkins. This is my first term with Urban Connections. I am delighted to be here. This is an opportunity to give back to the community in which I up-rooted. Urban Connections has given me a chance to be a part of revamping the Frank Garrett Community Center. This is an awesome experience for me. I can give back what was given to me. The Frank Garrett Community Center was formerly known as The Westend Community Center. It was under the direction of Mr. Frank Garrett who coordinated the center for over 45 years. This is why it is now known as the Frank Garrett Community Center. I am here for the children and the community. I am thrilled to be part of Urban Connections/Frank Garrett. The kids are awesome and energetic and I Love It!!!!!!!!!!!!! Take Pride In the Westside!!!!!!

I'm baccccckk!!!

Just when I thought my run at Urban was over, I'm back at it again! At the end of the summer I was a bit sad because I thought it was the end of the road for me, but boy was I wrong! When I got the news that we could now serve 4 terms as Americorps I was ecstatic. I didn't realize how much I loved and missed being at Urban Connection until I had a month away from it. I contacted Randi, let her know that I wanted to come back and the rest was was history. Now I'm back and I must say it feels good to be here! Even though I've been here for almost two years, it feels like I've got a fresh start. We've got a brand new team, new programs, and I'm loving it! I look forward to seeing what God has in store for me and the rest of the new Urban family. Please keep us in your prayers as we fulfill the work of the kingdom. Be blessed and prosperous

-K. Smith

First day with the kids

The first day of UCASA went really good. Some kids who had came for the summer program here at urban came back for this school year program. It was such a joy to see them return, and also to see some new faces. I really feel like they had fun, because i know i did! ;)

Meeting, bonding, and working with new members here at urban is an exciting experenice which should only get better. Can't wait to see how things will go.

Although we've come to the end of the road....

Where did the summer go so fast?


"Let's make it a long goodbye..."


This summer here at Urban Connection has been a life changing experience for me. I learned so much about myself and others while here, as well as the fearfully and wonderfully made children that I had the pleasure of meeting during Kids camp! As I leave this summer behind I take with me such beautiful memories, that all the team members and kids have left in my mind and heart. I wouldn't trade or take back this experience for anything, and I humbly Thank God and give him all the glory, honor, and praise for placing me here at this time, and teaching me so many things along the way. I know I was here for a reason, and I thank him for my sense of fulfillment as this summer closes out. It was a pleasure working with the AmeriCorp team, and all the collective ideas we had that made Kids camp what it was. I thank all the outside help that we received this summer from the various organizations; we honestly couldn't have done it without you! I thank God for you all being here, and the compassion you brought along with you. I have enjoyed the friendships that I have built while here, and relationships that have been formed between the children and families. Each child holds a special place in my heart. I pray that each child has a wonderful school year, and that at least one of us has left a positive impact on their lives. As I leave I would like to share a favorite verse that any and everyone may take with them wherever they go, and may God follow you through it all:


"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.." -Philippians 4:13


Be blessed in all you do,


Precious

Summer Gone By

This summer has been amazing. I was thinking, last week, of how much I am going to miss seeing all the kid's smiling faces, my team, and even the Lincoln Courts. It seems like it's all passed so fast. It feels like yesterday, that I was calling all the kids the same name, or sitting in training with group of my new found friends of Americorps. My final summer of college has gone by and I wouldn't have wanted to spend it anywhere else. This internship has been a blessing that apart from God, would have never happened. Even as I write this Gloria, one of my 7 year olds, is sitting in fornt of me trying to cover my eyes while I type, laughing hysterically. You just don't get this kind of experience anywhere else. I know this all sounds disorganized but I just can't find the words to communicate my gratitude for such a fulfilling summer. God bless!

Fear of change.

Being at urban connection this summer has been such a wonderful experience for me but its also been a change from my normal routine. Usually I would just be at the resturant working in the kitchen. Summers used to consist of sleeping all day and up all night, nothing to productive but it was fun. I recently went to go chill with them cause I haven't in a while and things seemed so different than they used to be. After leaving there I felt kinda sad because it seemed in that instant that life was just changing so rapidly for me. Friends have left for good, my summer at Urban Connection is almost over, I have to move(moving sucks so bad) and I still need to make sure everything goes smoothly this upcoming semester. Starting something new can sometimes be a burden when new obstacles keep popping up out of nowhere. I don't fear change, but for that brief moment I did. For that brief moment I just wanted things to stay the same for just a bit longer because fear and doubt had crept up on me. Then I remembered Philippians 4:6 and I prayed about it. There is nothing for me to fear when I know I have God on my side and he will take care of all my problems if I just have faith in him. There is no need to doubt myself or any situations because I have family and friends who are there for me. I will never be alone in my time of need because God has never forsaken me and he never will. I think I've been placed at Urban not just to be a positive role model for the children, but it has also brought me closer to God. I enjoy what I do everyday from getting to run outside with children to bringing a smile to there face after they've been crying. It's my joy in life and I hope I can keep making a difference in childrens lives for the rest of my life. - Josh

A kind of chill week :)

This week was very different from any other: we had 3 groups come in instead of 1, we went to the park, and Friday was dentist day (no kids camp!) The kids seemed to be on a special high because boy were they rowdy!! But thankfully none of us lost our cool. On thurday we went to Woodlawn park but before that Northside church of christ helped our kids make some AWESOME games/toys: there was a racket made out of PVC pipe and rubberbands (so cool), a bean filled glove yo-yo ( i know, long description), a sandbag hacky sack and ........(drum roll, please) a human car wash!!! That was soooo cool to see ( I hope someone posted pictures of it); they had attached a hose to a bunch of PVC pipes that they formed to look like a carwash, complete with sponges and moving appartus'. It was just the coolest little invention. Anyway the park had it's ups (smiling faces, sweaty kids, happy times) and downs (the poor scared ducks that some of our kids kind of chased and terrorized; sorry duckies!) We had a great time :)
Posted by Candice Johnson

Fortmaking

Just wanted to post some pictures of the Urban kids' smiling faces! Props to Josh for having the energy to help the kids build forts out of mats on Thursday, even after we spent the whole day at Woodlawn Park with the kids!

The finished product, with a roof and everything. There were like 6 kids crammed into that little fort!

I was amazed by how much they enjoyed this.

A bigger fort they could all fit into.

Yay!

~Bets

The Joys of the Outdoors!

Although the San Antonio humidity and overwhelming heat often make us leaders partially dread the 2-3 hours we spend outside every day, it is a huge joy to watch the kids play together and even play with them. It is SO HARD to get the kids off of the playground when playtime is over!

 I absolutely loved watching these 8 kids work together to figure out how to pile up on the slide and scream with joy at how hard it was to not fall off!

Our little ones especially love playing tag.

Clarissa (5 years old) usually swings until her arms are about to fall off from exhaustion!

Another snapshot of the kids scurrying down the slide during tag.


Outside time is so fun for the kids, and I sincerely hope they never lose their innocent love for games like tag and the simple joys of swinging high on a swing!

~Bets

Mr. James

My dear Mr. James is one of those people who can make you want to scream out loud irrationally all the while making you think and begrudingly smile. He has one of the most pure servant hearts that I've seen in a looooong time. He always has a positive attitude, a smile on his face, an encouraging word, and a dance (no matter how off beat) in his step. I know that I can count on him to keep the children feeling happy, safe, encouraged and loved. We have a relationship that even though it may sometimes be volatile it is genuine and I treasure it. But out of all of this, my favorite thing about James is his love for the Lord; even though he may be sarcastic, he bases everything he says and does off the Word of God. He remembers to give God the glory in everything that he does and that is all the God requires. To you Mr. white and creamy I say, "and all the girls say, He's pretty fly for a white guy!" Love ya, man :)
Posted by Candice Johnson

Jules

What can I say about Julia? She's a lot of fun and the kids absolutely LOVE her. One thing i really appreciate about her is that she is really forthcoming and blunt about her mistakes which is rather refreshing when one works with children all day, lol. Julia is always the first one outside in the morning, cereal bowl in hand to watch the kids who want to play outside. I also really appreciate that she has no tolerance for unnecessary tears from the children because all of that crying can get really irritating sometimes. All in all I'm really glad I got a chance to get to know Julia and see her interact with all of the children here at Urban.

Peace out < Alex

Hello Mrs. Kreuger's Management Class!

This is an example of what a blog might look like. Kid's Connection at Urban Connection is a blog that builds community among employees, as well as advertise to the public some things that are going on in the Lincoln Height's Courts. The blog also allows for a place where employees can express creativity and write reflections on the previous week's activities. For example, today we took a "boys only" field trip to the police academy. As you can imagine, all the boys wanted to be a police officer afterwards. Check out the rest of the blog after class to find out some of the amazing things happening in one of the nation's poorest zip codes!

YO CANDICE!

YO CANDICE! She's a real cool cat. She's got a lot of this, and a lot of that. We all think that she's real neat. So come check out my sweet new beat. She's always fly, even on the jet plane. Always on time, never in the traffic lane. She cracks the whip, when Jorge's bad, and holds him like a baby when he's sad. She sweeps, mops, and hands out food,and she'll "slap ya in the mouth" if you're rude. She'll blow up your vocab, when you blab, don't try and spell, its just a drab. She's got the power. You know the, soOOULL POWER! Don't mess with her Satan, she'll pray you out, and leave us on the floor, all fallin' out. She talks like a boss, walks like a boss, better count the cost, before you get all cross. All in all, she's ridiculously awesome, stay around her too long, and you can't help but blossom. The End.

So that's my rap for my good friend Candice and pretty much the expanse of my creativity. Candice is one of those people that I love having next to me in such challenging arenas like children's programs. She is trustworthy, hardworking, and focused on the task at hand. She is direct and honest about things she likes and dislikes, which is a rare, but needed trait in leaders. She has a consistent, genuine, care and love for the children. Being around her continually makes me a better man, and that is the type of godly woman, like all the urban women, that I enjoy working with. Candice, may God bless you and keep you!

Lindsey-Smalls!!

I feel like singing about my pal, Lindsey, so here goes nothing..lol.

*clears throat*

L- is for the way you LOOK at me.....o_O
I- is for the INCREDIBLE person I see...
N- is very, very NICE and extraordinary...
S- is SO much more than anyone could adore...
and....
E- is EVERYTHING you mean to me...
Y- is something to describe YOU, as what I seeeee, and it is Ahhhhh-MAZING!!

All of us in Urban can make...
Take my heart but please don't break it..
cause' LINDSEY was made for me and YOU!!!



*awkward moment taken..and observed* o_O LOL!


Lindsey!!!

Words cannot explain what you mean to Urban and how much me as well as the other team members appreciate all you do while you're here. I often notice how great you interact with the children here, and love having fun and being a kid again while playing. I thank you for all you do, and I want to let you know that it never goes unnoticed. :)

I'm Precious Nwigwe, and as always in parting, we wish you love, peace and SOOOUUUUULLLLLLLLLL!!

Jah Bless!

Alex :)

One of my co-workers Alex has been doing an exceptional job lately. I've noticed many positive qualities she has; a big one for example is her compassion for each individual child. We always have kids falling down, getting bumps and bruises, and here comes Alex ready to patch up their scrapes. Not only does she take care of their physical needs, she also is very good when our kids have emotional issues. She is always mindful of how she speaks to each child, and is very wise when consoling them. I really appreciate Alex and all of the wonderful assests she brings to our team of Americorps. Props to you Alex and keep up the awesome work!! - Julia

Eliza-Bets!!!!

During my time here at Urban I've been privileged to be surrounded by so many wonderful people. I've had numerous jobs, but this is the first one I can truly say that I love! Not only do I love what I do, but I love the people I work with. One of those people is Miss Elizabeth A.K.A Bets. Whoever created the saying "there's no I in team" had Bets in mind. She's a great example of how one should go over and beyond their call of duty. When there's down time she always finds something to do. Anything from decorating our bulletin boards to putting up colorful dots along the borders of the walls to brighten up the room. Her creativity has brought life to the Urban facility. Bet's smile alone can brighten any ones' day. The love of God continuously shines through her, and I know that it's genuine. Although she's one of the younger team members she stands out as a great leader. I'm blessed to have her be apart of my life!!!!:) Be blessed and prosperous....
-K.Smith

Sabrina!

Let me tell you about my friend Sabrina. She is a wonderful person who's usually pretty organized, way more than me anyway. She's jokes around at times which is cool. She is in charge of lunch with Bets and I thinks they both do an outstanding job at it. This past friday though, while in between snacktime and our next activity there wasn't anything for me to do with the kids. So I decided to play Thumbs up Seven up, but there was only one problem I didn't remember how to play the game. Sabrina to the rescue! She swooped in and saved the day not only was the game played properly I also had alot of fun. Thank you Sabrina for being there when I needed you. You rock. Josh

Precious Nwigwe

Precious our urban after hours step teacher did an awesome job on Friday teaching the kids new steps. Not only is Precious amazing at teaching our kids at urban different steps, but she is also really good at teaching the kids new card games in the morning before we get started with our day. In our ten and up group Precious has done an awesome job with our two older girls at Urban Connection being able to confide in her with the things they are struggling with in their lives. I can really tell these girls really trust Precious and look up to her, and it is awesome to see that. This summer has been incredible and I am so thankful for each team member I have had the privledge to work with. Countinue to pray for each of us and the plans God has for us for the rest of the summer. Gig em and God Bless, Lindsey Hawkins

One of My Great Coworkers, Kisha!

In the midst of energetic and rambunctious kids causing havoc to any preconceived notions of having an organized and fully orderly day at work, she stands out as one who isn’t fazed by the chaos. Having learned to take things as they come and not stress over events not going as planned, she has almost completely perfected doing what is necessary to ensure that Urban lives up to its motto of loving each and every kid fully and completely. I think of her as the ultimate caretaker. She loves on the kids with a wisdom that I hope to be able to develop. Her commitment to Urban goes beyond the normal hours of 8:30-3:30, Monday through Friday, as she has helped coordinate and chaperone various weekend camps this summer. Her name is Kisha Smith, and I’m so proud to be able to call her my coworker and my friend!

~Bets

Mr. Josh

This week we were assigned to chose someone from our team and write about them, I choose Josh. Honestly, before we were even given this assignment I didn't really pay much attention to what the others in my group were really doing for Urban. Over this week I have seen first hand how great my team really is. Josh among the others, has an extraordinary personality, he doesn't mind to lend a helping hand. Josh is consistent with the children and also fair to each one of them. He is a friend to the kids, a motivator, and a leader, but also knows when he needs to step up and take control. What I admire the most about him is that he never stresses over any little thing, and he always has a positive attitude, also he keep his personal life and work life separated. He's encouraging and funny, and although he may not know it he has helped me see that being clam, relaxed, and at ease at times is not always a bad thing. I'm proud that I have the opportunity to work with him along the other members in my team, because he has tought me many things. So Thank You Josh! ;)

UC LIVE :)

This week was filled with lots of ups (my group finally behaving!!) and unforunately some downs (suspensions). But even with all of the drama that is always to come with working at Urban, there was light at the end of the tunnel in the form of a cookout/talent show called UC LIVE! Lindsey, james and I had stayed afterwards for the cookout so that we could see all the kids and their hard work...man I wish I had brought my personal camera for that, but thankfully lindsey got some pics! Anywho, the kids were so fantastic and they were so happy it seriously brought tears to my eyes to see them laughing and singing and dancing for their parents with the BIGGEST smiles on their faces! I mean they were just overjoyed and those moments are where I realized that all of the drama and stress and frustration that can come from this job seems to disappear when I see those kids happy, laughing and healthy :) And oh my goodnes my 8 and 9 year olds brought down the house with their performance of Baby by Justin Bieber...they had smooth moves (some taken from MJ, of course) they were just so confident and wonderful! I was just so proud. Being with these kids has taught me to be appreciative of the life that God has blessed me with but also to share in the good times when all of us truly feel blessed. Posted by candice johnson

Our Amazing Kids at the Talent Show!!!

I was so proud of our 8 and 9 year olds as they performed baby by Justin Bieber. They did such an awesome job, here is a small video clip of it.

Here is another video of our awesome kids performing a song they learned throughout the week with the Kentucky group.

Adam and Jaden perform Karate Kid and they

did such an amazing job!

Gig em and God Bless, Lindsey Hawkins

The Blessing of Serving Hearts

Do you believe that those we bless are often times the ones we least expect to? A lot of times we don't even know when or where it happens. Previously, I was feeling drained and certainly more pessimistic than normal. A lot of this was due to poor resting habits, stress, and an unspoken tension among the team. However, God gave me an opportunity to see some of my own flaws and bad tendencies that I have been allowing to slip into my character over the past couple of weeks and a new spark to finish strong this summer.

Much of these realizations were from having some new Christ-centered laborers, visiting all the way from Kentucky, along side of our Americorps team. Seeing their heart for the children and an amazing spirit of inclusion put the much needed spark back into my summer. It was their enthusiasm, not their criticism, that spurred me to pick myself up and continue laboring for kingdom victories. They were not afraid to come along side of you and get their hands dirty and always invited you to join in on their home cooked meals, which were amazing. After the kids left one day, we had an outdoor gallon challenge that, after walking inside and coming back to milk that had been heated up on the asphalt, gave me a new perspective on Revelation 3:16 - So, because you are lukewarm--neither hot nor cold--I am about to spit you out of my mouth. I know that the Kentucky team's focus wasn't on me but it's amazing what an enthusiastic heart to serve can do to bless those around it. I know that I am a man of many flaws but I hope that someday I also will be characterized by a passionate serving heart that spurs on other Christ-centered laborers. Shine on!

Kentucky Fried Style...

This week here at Urban the group very well known around these parts as "Kentucky" came to show our kids a very great time, as they planned out several activities and games, and a great bible lesson each and everyday. The kids really seemed to enjoy learning new stories and songs, as well as I did. I enjoyed watching many of the kids faces light up with excitment with all the stories that were told...from the inside the boat, to the window. Also, the outdoor games were very fun as well, from "Mr. Wolf what time is it?" to "Mingle", and one of my favorites "Knock Out!" (even though I didn't win) All in all, every moment was a great experience!! I can't wait for more fun and excitment that is coming our way!


God Bless,

-Precious Nwigwe
"Do Not Stress...Do Your Best...and God Does The Rest!"

What Will They Do Next?

4-5 year olds have a different but exciting idea towards life. Their imaginations run wild all throughout the day. Its very hard to try and guess what they might say or even do next. Everyone of these kids can bring a smile to my face in may ways. The things they come up with are so ridiculous that you can't help but laugh because it tends to be extremely funny! They are the most adorable kids I've met. Throughout this week the kids have gotten to do many different activities, and make many different art crafts. They also learned new songs along with that moves that go with them. I personally think that the kids really enjoyed dancing and singing the most, they tended to get lose and go with the flow!

The Rambunctious but Altogether Lovable Fours and Fives

It's hard to find the words to describe my feelings about the 4 and 5 year olds that Sabrina, Kisha, and I have had the opportunity to lead and spend our time with at Urban. The kids are precious. While it's almost impossible to get most of them to sit still for longer than 30 seconds, they have such an inexpressible joy and passion for life that it's also impossible not to love them. We often find ourselves laughing very hard about the hilarious sayings, imaginations, and actions of these young children. A few of the kids have such wild and altogether entertaining imaginations that it's hard to bring myself to tell them to forget their imaginative ideas for the time being and focus on the task at hand. Here are some pictures of some of the darlings that I have the blessing to spend my days with this summer!

A group shot of about half of the little "Indians" we had running around one day.

Eduardo, the most imaginative little boy I have ever met. Here, he's posing as he's "frozen" while playing freeze tag. 

John John, David, Diego, and Jacob having a blast with Lance, one of the leaders from the Springtown group from last week.

The playground is definitely this age's favorite hangout spot. Here, Amore is posing at the top of the slide!

Joshua and David, two brothers who love each other to death and have the sweetest smiles!


God bless!

~Bets

Hurt Left Unhealed

Heart break was the theme for what I was experiencing last week at urban. On Tuesday, I found out that one of the sweetest girls in my group of 6&7 year olds tried to jump out of a moving car and also attempted to "seriously" attacked her sister. She was then enrolled in the psychiatric ward at a nearby hospital and studied for a while. I was broken over the news. She is one of those kids that melts your heart and rarely gives you any problems. I later found out that she was on medication during the day to keep her calm and due to some "home" problems, she was experiencing a lot of anger.
This same week, I sat outside with a 13 year old girl talking about how angry and short tempered she was at another girl and that it all stemmed from her dad being murdered a few years before. For 45 minutes, with her face streaming in tears of frustration, we talked about having self-control, the consequences of anger, and the healing power of God. I knew that God was the only one that could take her pain away and draw her off of the bad path she is headed down, but she spoke of God as being the one who allowed her father to die. All I could say was that an angry man with a gun killed her dad, not God, and that I truly believe that there is a better and bigger plan for her than the things she is doing currently. My heart was heavy with sorrow for each of the girls, but these are just two stories of the many here at the Lincoln Heights Courts. There is so much pain lurking behind the cute faces here at urban and it is a shame that they all have to be young children. Why does the world overlook things that are going on here, good and bad? Why don't ALL the people of God turn their deafened ears towards the cries of these children and to all the pain left unhealed. I know that I was oblivious to it all once, but if you have ears to hear, let them hear. We can no longer hide behind the "that's not my calling" smokescreen, or "I don't have time" excuse. Jesus speaks of them in them in such a direct way that you would have to be a pharisee to hide from it.
1 At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" 2He called a little child and had him stand among them. 3And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5"And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me. 6But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea. 7 "Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to sin! Such things must come, but woe to the man through whom they come! 8 If your hand or your foot causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life maimed or crippled than to have two hands or two feet and be thrown into eternal fire. 9 And if your eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to enter life with one eye than to have two eyes and be thrown into the fire of hell. 10"See that you do not look down on one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven. 12 "What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off? 13And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off. 14In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should be lost.
So Jesus is passionately seeking after all the little ones in San Antonio, but the question is, "Are we?" Are we seeking to be God's guiding and healing hands and feet or are we just being kept in the pockets of our own selfishness like too much change that clangs around in some annoying repetitive fashion.

Our Adorable yet Crafty 8 and 9 year olds!!

This past week with our 8 and 9 year olds had an extremely fun time with the game telephone. The group we had here Springtown Church of Christ who were totally awesome turned the game into God Telephone. This is a video of our awesome and super cute 8 and 9 year olds enjoying God Telephone.

Gig em and God Bless, Lindsey Hawkins

Our Lovely girls in our Urban After hours Class!

Amaryis painting her Jewlery Box Blue!

Rosary admiring the work of others!!

Elyssa she put so much paint on her Jewlery Box that the top got stuck to the bottom. She is adorable!

Bets and I are having so much fun with our urban after hours class and this next tuesday we will be making lots of Jewlery , so the girls have plenty of Jewlery to put in their awesome new jewlery boxes!

Gig em and God Bless,Lindsey Hawkins