On the Table Action Grant “Get Out of Town – Summer Youth Impact Tour”

Last year was the second year that Enrichment Services Program participated in On the Table as a Super Host. We were very intentional about making sure that our customers had a place at the table and that their voices were heard in each of the nine counties that we serve. After hosting our tables, we were thrilled about the idea of the Action Grants and wanted to see at least one of the ideas that were discussed come to life.

We had many conversations about the lack of resources available in some of the rural counties we serve and how that affects opportunities for the youth. Out of that conversation the idea for “Get Out of Town – A Summer Youth Impact Tour” was born. The idea for the project was pretty simple – provide day trips for youth in Stewart County to Columbus during the summer to expose them to different art, educational, and fun attractions that they may not typically get to experience.

The program was limited to ten participants who were entering grades 9 – 12 this school year. We worked with the high school guidance counselor to help recruit students that would be a good fit for this program. Initially we planned on conducting each of the day trips on Fridays in the month of June, however there were some conflicts with the summer school program, so we conducted the program each day during the week of July 22nd.

The first day of the program began with a tour and overview of Enrichment Services Program. Students were able to learn about Community Action and what Community Action Agencies do. They went to visit one of our Early Head Start Centers and also discussed ways that they could get involved and volunteer at the locations in Stewart County. We included an etiquette class as part of day one, since we would try to incorporate at least one sit down restaurant into the itinerary. The students enjoyed the etiquette class, all while begin able to practice with a meal catered by Olive Garden. The final stop for day one was to the Coca Cola Space Science Center. Students enjoyed seeing the planetarium and also participating in the scavenger hunt.

Day two was “Museum Day”. We started the day off at the National Infantry Museum. This was awe inspiring to the students, some of which are considering pursing the army as a career, this put things into perspective for them. We were able to have a full tour of the museum, including lunch and a special lesson on the Global War on Terror. After our time at the National Infantry Museum, we headed to the Columbus Museum, another first for our students. Here students had a guided tour and completed an art activity inspired by works that were on display at the museum.

Day three was “College Tour Day”. Guided tours were provided by both Columbus State University and Columbus Technical College. This day was very meaningful to our students because many of them aspire to be first generation college students. Seeing both schools up close and personal made their vision one step closer to reality.

Day four was “Adventure Day”. The students braved the Chattahoochee and went whitewater rafting and zip lining! This was something that they didn’t expect to do, but had a blast! We were also able to have lunch at a legendary Columbus restaurant – Country’s on Broadway.

The week ended with “Entertainment Day” on Friday. We treated students to a movie at AMC Theater – The Lion King, Bowling at Stars and Strikes and lunch at Chick-Fil-A. This was also a first for many of the students.

While the activities were a big part of the week, there were so many great takeaways. Students had the opportunity to learn college preparation skills, tour programs offered at the local technical college and university, as well as experience unconventional recreational outdoor activities – and of course eat at a variety of different places. The students developed friendships and were able to see the world in a different light. Some of the students were also able to confide in staff about some of their needs. Although not part of the grant, we were happy to be able to assist with providing some school clothes and supplies for students in need. We have highlighted one of the student’s experiences below:

Zine, is a 17 year old Junior of Stewart County High School. When asked about her future plans, Zine stated that after graduating from high school she wants to become a traveling Registered Nurse. Her only dilemma is deciding on a great program and which college or university to enroll in.

With an incarcerated mother, and living with her elderly grandmother, Zine did not want to go to school far away from home. The Summer Impact Youth Program has afforded her the opportunity to tour Columbus Technical College and Columbus State University. After the week long program, Zine was so elated that she could experience such a hands-on/ interactive view of the nursing programs at the two schools. “Without this summer program I would have never been able to get a true feel of the nursing program and college”. Zine is continuing her junior year at Stewart County High School – focusing on academics and sports (basketball and volleyball).

“I really enjoyed being able to go whitewater rafting but the college tours were the highlight of my week. I now know exactly where I want to go to college and it’s all because I was able to participate in the program. I am so thankful for this summer program and for the back to school assistance I received”.