On Friday, I completed my first week of work at the American Red Cross. It was a great first week of work! (I guess I have not had that many first weeks, but it was much better than my short stint in the insurance business) The week was a bit overwhelming with all of new-to-me information. I learned with lots more detail about what I will do this year as an AmeriCorps member as well as all of the projects that are completed by the Red Cross. I got to take a little class called Changing Lives at the Red Cross about all the different aspects of their programs - like disaster relief and work with the armed forces as well as the prevention (like the classes offered by the red cross - my job!) courses. It was really neat because it was not just staff members presenting, but volunteers too.
The office has a really great atmosphere too - I've met a lot of dedicated volunteers in my 4 days at work. I hope to get to know more of them and hear more of their stories. There are not a lot of full time staff members in the office, but they are all very welcoming and helpful. I also love having my own space to work - I've done a bit of organization and decoration of my space this week!
So this week was mostly orientation, but I already know that I am going to have an amazing year! I started to learn the Scrubby Bear (hand washing) program that I will be teaching to kids. (I have a ton of these already scheduled since fall is a popular time to learn good hand washing skills) I also met with the girl who had my position last year so I heard a bit about what the position was like. In my desk, I found some bound note cards from previous AmeriCorps members with their notes, advice, and stories. It made me see the history of the program and made me feel a connection to these previous members without me even knowing them. I already have some things on my calendar. Many are programs, but some are meetings with clubs or a committee I'm going to be on. Some groups I will visit multiple times so I'm excited to hopefully get to know those kids well! I also signed up for a Girl Scout Leadership Day where I'll talk to troop leaders and hopefully present different programs to their troops! The Red Cross Clubs that I work with have also started this week! I'm excited to work with these high school students as they host different fundraisers for the Red Cross and educational activities for their classmates as well as local elementary students. I'm excited to see kids that are excited about service and excited to be leaders! I can't wait till things really get going!
This morning was my first week of Sunday School! It was a bit hectic to be honest, but I think it went well overall. The 45 min went by super quick! My class is so cute! I had 22 energetic 3rd graders today and two parents for helpers in a room that was crowded with tables and chairs. We made notes/pictures for the kids of Nigeria to go with my church's mosquito net fundraiser and worked on a worksheet to help the kids start to get oriented with the bibles they will receive in a few weeks. It was fun to see all of their energy and creativity! I'm excited to get to know them as the year goes on!
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