Archive for the ‘Event’ Category
UALR Children International Presents Terrific Tuesdays
Friday, March 29th, 2013
UALR-CI has officially launched Terrific Tuesdays, an after school program designed to reach students within the community ages 8-12. The community partnership with Bishop Leodis & Goldie Warren Community Development Center where Terrific Tuesdays are held, allows for learning beyond the books. Enrichment activities such as Sports, Art, Fit-Kids, Stepping and Dramatic Arts encourage students to express themselves as they are motivated to build self-confidence and higher esteem. The instructors of the program are caring and sensitive towards the students’ needs, grooming them academically, socially and developmentally. “We like coming and we always have fun!” said a group of fifth graders as they enjoyed snacks provided through a special donation. AmeriCorps members manage to make learning fun by engaging students in competitive academic relay games. This allows them to blow off steam, exercise both physically and mentally while cheering their respective team to success. “The word is really getting out,” said Paula Rogers, the program’s coordinator. “We’re steadily growing with students from several area schools and especially surrounding the community center.” The program has already swelled to nearly 40 students by the close of its fourth Tuesday. In the heart of Greater Little Rock, the program’s doors are open every Tuesday from 3-6pm.
Students are provided a positive, safe environment in which to learn, make new friends, and explore avenues with the arts they wouldn’t otherwise be exposed to. Working parents are relieved from the worries of daily homework, studies and their child’s safety. A welcome addition to the area, Terrific Tuesdays are off to a great start and both children and parents alike couldn’t be happier. _______________________________________________________________________
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UALR CI Future Smiles Dental Clinic Celebrates National Children’s Dental Health Month
Monday, March 4th, 2013
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM). Now in its 63rd year, NCDHM’s focus is to raise awareness about the importance of oral health to both parents and children. This year’s slogan is “Get a Gold Medal Smile” and UALR CI’s Future Smiles Dental Clinic is doing its part in stressing the importance of developing good habits at an early age and helping children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. UALR CI’s Future Smiles Dental Clinic is spending the month outfitting even the tiniest of patients with dental sealants. Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings that are applied to the grooves on the chewing surface of the back teeth. Since most decay in children and teens occurs on these surfaces, the clinic is focusing on this procedure as a preventative measure to combat tooth decay. Future Smiles is Arkansas’ only elementary school-based dental clinic. The clinic has three chairs and is coordinated by UALR Children International in partnership with the Arkansas Children’s Hospital, the Little Rock School District, the Arkansas Department of Health, the Heart of Arkansas United Way and the UAMS School of Dental Hygiene. The clinic is staffed with a dentist, dental assistant, a clinic manager and Dental Hygiene students from the University of Arkansas Medial Sciences.
Future Smiles is a full service dental clinic and provides comprehensive dental care to children on Medicaid and those without insurance in the partner elementary schools. Because the clinic is located on school grounds, they have become a part of the children’s everyday lives. A regular trip to the dentist is no longer a scary ordeal, but a short visit with a familiar friend. Unlike with a traditional dental clinic, students here are excited when their turn comes to visit the dentist, which makes the work of instilling good oral care habits that much easier.
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Got Youth Conflict? UALR-CI Parents and Staff Learn How to Help
Thursday, February 28th, 2013
On Saturday February 9, parents, staff, students and volunteers of UALR CI participated in an anger management workshop facilitated by The Arkansas Community Dispute Resolution Centers, Inc. (ACDRC). Participants were provided detailed information about community-based conflict resolution and peer mediation in an effort to more effectively serve our youth. The highly interactive workshop featured role-plays simulating situations aimed at enhancing skills needed to effectively manage anger and resolve conflict. Parents, staff, students and volunteers also had the opportunity to assess their current conflict resolution styles and learned more creative ways to listen, probe and infer more persuasively.
“Youth typically resolve their disputes through aggressive verbal behavior and violent actions,” said Angelia Tolbert, the center’s Executive Director. “The goal of conflict resolution is to diffuse anger and resolve conflict more effectively”. Tolbert is dedicated to assisting Arkansas’ youth and those that work with them, in learning more about appropriate methods to resolve conflict. Topics ranged from Conflict Management and Cooperative Problem Solving as well as Respect Activities and the proper responses for conflict. Participants learned how open-ended questions and respectively listening allows opportunities to learn root causes of emotional triggers for youth. When everyone works together to create a family environment of mutual respect, it provides a safe place for the youth to blossom, especially in programs that are more culturally diverse. The results can even be seen at home as some parents have reported positive changes in their children.
ACDRC teaches skills students can use to achieve personal goals, think independently and critically, to support positive outcomes, to promote safe environments and to foster greater productivity in their homes, schools and communities. There are more than 550 community dispute resolution centers across the United States. For more information about ACDRC visit them online at http://www.acdrc.net/. ____________________________________
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Growing Our Community
Monday, February 11th, 2013
On Monday, January 21, 2013, young leaders from UALR Children International’s Youth Council and the Central Little Rock Promise Neighborhood’s Promise Ambassadors joined forces to help “Grow Our Community” by participating in this year’s MLK Day of Service. Hosted by Oak Forest United Methodist Church, these 40 youth leaders along with members of UALR-CI staff spent their day uniting to give back to the local community. Dwayne, a youth in the Promise Ambassador’s program, opened the Day of Service with a fitting quote from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “Everybody can be great because anybody can serve.”
Pastor Rush Breshears of Oak Forest UMC headed the annual event, welcoming volunteers from UALR Children International, the Central Little Rock Promise Neighborhood, UALR School of Social Work, and Trinity United Methodist Church. “We’re so thankful that so many young people came out to help us with our efforts” said Pastor Breshears. “This is the largest turnout we’ve had since its inception”.
Kayla, a seventh grader at eStem Public Charter School enjoyed participating because it gave her an opportunity to be more active in the community. “I would encourage other youth to set their standards higher,” she said. “Always look beyond your local community for opportunities to serve.”
The volunteers were dispersed to several locations cleaning and beautifying offices and clinics inside and out. Along with the church’s grounds and those of UALR Children International and the Lion’s World Services for the Blind facility located just down the street, several health clinics with biblically befitting names also received some much needed attention.
The Oak Forest UMC’s eye clinic, Bart’s Place, is named after blind Bartimaeus who had his site restored by Jesus. The counseling center, Barnabas House, is named for one of Paul’s missionary partners who went out and spread the gospel. Barnabas means ‘the encourager’, which is exactly what volunteers from the UALR School of Social Work do for those who find refuge behind its doors. Shepherd’s Hope is the church’s medical and dental clinic formed in partnership with Fellowship Bible Church. The clinic offers medical and dental services to uninsured residents in the Midtown area of Little Rock.
The day was hugely successful and helped build a strong sense of community. “We’re so grateful to see so many young people come out and sacrifice their day off from school,” says Nancy of Oak Forest UMC. “We’ve never had this many youth come out to get involved.”
Everyone ended the day with an immense sense of accomplishment, collecting 70 bags of leaves and yard debris on the UALR-CI grounds alone. The youth closed out the four hour event at the offices of CI with lunch and some much needed refreshments. The event connected people from all age groups and walks of life and gave everyone involved a warm sense of community.
For more information about Oak Forest United Methodist Church visit them online at www.oakforestumc.com.
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From Bullied to Black Belt
Tuesday, February 5th, 2013
Tony was a shy child, a bit overweight and often bullied by his peers. That was before Children International. It was through the classes offered as a part of UALR Children International’s after school program “Kids’ Club” that this shy child broke out of his shell and turned his life around. The program’s discipline, physical fitness, positive affirmations and confessions gave Tony just the spark he needed. Tony thrived under the tutelage of Master Anderson of Anderson’s Taekwondo and would often help lead the entire class. Going from beginner to black belt in two short years, it goes without saying the bullying soon stopped and friendships were formed as children began to know his name. 
His self esteem skyrocketed. Soon, his weight dropped, his grades shot up and he became one of the most popular kids at school. Tony remained on the school’s honor roll the entire time he was in the program. “Children International has exposed not only Tony but the rest of my family to things we otherwise would not have been exposed to,” said Tony’s mom Sherry. “Because of his involvement in Children International’s Taekwondo program, Tony has traveled to places like Orlando, FL, Las Vegas, NV and Houston, TX with his family by his side in support.” Sherry is very proud of her son’s accomplishments and wishes she’d known about Kids Club when her older children were in school.
Sherry credits Children International for bringing Tony out of his shell and turning her son’s life around both socially and academically. “I don’t think the sponsors realize how much their gifts affect the lives of children and their families,” she added. “The coats at winter time, the backpacks full of school supplies to help start the school year and extra gifts at Christmas time, it helps lift the burden and really means so much to us.” She beamed. “I just can’t say enough about the program.”Kids’ Club helped bring out the leader in Tony that has always been there, but might have never been discovered as he cowered under the pressures of bullies. “Tony is a natural leader,” said Kristin Koenigsfest, Education Manager for UALR Children International. “He took taekwondo very seriously and thrived under the program.”
The other students also see the leader in him, voting him CEO of Children International’s Mind Your Own Business Summer Program every year without fail. Though Tony has moved on to junior high school, he still finds time to return to his former elementary to give back and help out in the after school program every chance he gets. Though he has developed an interest in basketball and other sports, he gives up anything that threatens his time with taekwondo. His mother smiles when she speaks of how his appointment at UALR Children International’s Future Smiles Dental Clinic based at his former elementary went hours past the appointed time because he had to stay and help out. She never worries when he’s there because she knows he’s in good hands.
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Secret Santa Visits UALR Children International
Friday, February 1st, 2013
The office of UALR Children International was brimming with holiday gifts and excitement for a few days in December as the first ever Secret Santa event went into full swing. Grateful parents looked on as children ripped open their gifts while some decided to wait until Christmas morning. Excited children with picture stamps, glitter and colored pencils crafted the masterpiece that became their “Thank You” cards for the local individuals and organizations who donated the toys and other items that made it all possible.
A team of CI Elves, staff and AmeriCorps volunteers worked tirelessly collecting, purchasing and wrapping gifts for the event. Every detail was organized to ensure the event ran smoothly. Hot chocolate, apple cider and other refreshments were on hand to add to the festivities.Guests were greeted with “Happy Holidays!” that rang out of the mouth of CI babes who gladly volunteered their services to help give back to others. “I’m surprised they’re doing this for our kids,” one grateful parent could be heard saying. “My son was so excited when I told him he had a gift here waiting for him.”
Many families were not able to do as much as they would like for their children during the holidays. For 100 children this year, Children International was there to help fill in the gaps and lessen some of the burden many families feel during the holidays.The annual event solicits gifts and donations for children and youth who otherwise would not have received anything outside the normal programs and activities the sponsorship funds provide. Thanks to all who helped us spread some holiday cheer and make this year’s Secret Santa event a huge success!
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CI Warriors Football
Wednesday, January 9th, 2013
Against overwhelming odds and a host of challenges, the CI Warriors always came out on top. With 54 students and 6 coaches, the team got off to a late start, yet remained at 2nd place all season long. Because most of the team was from single-parent homes, the coaches oftentimes stood in to provide not only guidance, but transportation, discipline and a listening ear. The team is broken into two age groups: 8-10 and 11 -12. Headed by Shawn White, formerly of the San Diego Riptides, he and the team’s other 5 volunteer coaches were all devoted to pouring their very selves into the students, grooming them for success both on and off the field.
Sonja Eskridge, mother of 11 year old teammate Cameron Eskridge, raves about the devotion Shawn and the other coaches showed to the children on the team. Although the CI Warriors was not Cameron’s first experience with football, it was the first time he understood and fell in love with the game. “Shawn and Coach Eric taught Cameron more than standing on the line and blocking,” says Eskridge. “They actually taught him why he was doing what he was told to do, and it made all the difference. He now loves football because he finally understands it. Now he knows that he can win.” Although Cameron would love to see more funding for uniforms, he says his favorite moment was when he got his very first touchdown.
William McDowell, a 10 year old teammate believes the experience helped him grow academically and as a person. His mother, Joy McDowell, tells of how much more responsible and dedicated her son has become because of his experience on the team. A single mom, she noticed her son would listen to the coaches, take it to heart, and not only apply their advice, but teach it to his little brother. “There are youth that aren’t being exposed to things that Children International has given my son the ability to participate in.” She is grateful for the program and the dedication the coaches showed in going out of their way to help the children involved.
This was the second year for the CI Warriors and this year the team was supported by the CI Warrior Cheerleaders. Although it was started just for fun, Joy McDowell also noted how much her cousin, a member of the cheerleading team, had a lot of fun being involved. “It taught the girls rhythm and responsibility. They are looking forward to next year.”, The CI Warriors function entirely from sponsorship funds. Two of the team’s coaches also had children on the team, and Benson Chu, a team favorite, is UALR-CI’s current Deputy Director. Melody Moore and Vicki Disney, also of UALR-CI, joined the collective effort that went into making this year a success. “I am so thankful for the contribution everyone made to the team.” Says Shawn White, “ I could not have gotten anything accomplished without them.”
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Youth Leadership Retreat
Wednesday, January 9th, 2013
Lifelong friends were made, personal experiences shared, and everyone discovered the power of togetherness during UALR-Children International’s (UALR CI) Youth Leadership Retreat. Held at the 4-H Center just west of Little Rock, this year’s retreat was led by Susannah Beachboard, Youth Education Manager for UALR-CI. Facilitated by an amazing, dynamic team of AmeriCorps members, the retreat focused on giving youth the choice and voice to make positive change for themselves, for one another, and for their community.
The 47 youth attended, with ages ranging from 11-17 years old, representing over 10 different middle and high schools in the Little Rock area. Arriving with different perspectives and life experiences, youth were able to ask one another personal questions, and give peer-to-peer, real-life advice. The youth engaged in group activities that focused on bringing out their natural talents, strengthening their weaknesses and finding their own voice.
Step Into the Circle initiated bonding amongst the youth as the participants learned not only trust, but to bolster one another while they disclosed each other’s personal challenges. “I never knew others felt the same as me,” one youth stated after her experience with the sharing circle. The entire weekend proved to the youth how strong and wonderful they really are and that they all have more in common than they realized. “Now I know I’m not alone.”
The Egg Drop proved particularly challenging as the students were charged with protecting the egg (representing feelings) during an 8ft drop armed with only straws and tape. The teams then developed persuasive marketing presentations to explain their protection devices and their effectiveness.
Another group favorite was the Trust Walk during which, working in pairs, blindfolded teammates were led around an obstacle course. In between nervous shrieks and giggles of relief and clumsiness, “guiders” learned to communicate and keep their partner safe, while “walkers” relinquished their sense of control into the trusting hands of their peer.
The new young leaders learned how to more fully love themselves by keeping an “ear” on their hearts, a caring “eye” on their peers, and finding a collective “voice” for making change in their community. They look forward to a spring full of discussions, actions, and friendships.
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UALR-CI’s Paula Rodgers and After School Kids Bring Holiday Cheer to UAMS Cancer Patients
Monday, January 7th, 2013
UALR-CI’s own Paula Rogers, along with children from Wilson Elementary’s Kids Club after school program brought holiday cheer to some lucky patients at the UAMS Cancer institute. Every year the students complete a community service project, and this year the students chose to decorate holiday coasters, bringing joy to cancer patients undergoing infusion treatment at the UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute.
The holiday coasters were inspired by Paula Rogers, who is herself a two-time breast cancer survivor and an Education Manager at UALR. “Words can’t express the gratitude I felt when I was a patient at on the receiving end, just to know someone was thinking of me. When the time came for our Community Service Project, it was on my heart to do the same for the other patients undergoing treatment during the holidays.”
Attached to each coaster was a holiday card, each with words of encouragement, but the kids were even more encouraged. Tackling the task with as much holiday excitement as they could muster, the kids dove right in and really did a great job. Fifth graders Felix (5th grade), Asija & Tyler (4t) and Kimia (3rd) joined Ms. Rogers in delivering the coasters to the institute where they were graciously received. About 70 students from second to the fifth grade participated in the project. Tyler was all smiles as he ended the day saying “We just wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas”.
Over 1.5 million new cancer cases are diagnosed ever year. The Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute offers comprehensive medical treatment driven by state-of-the-art research to patients from every Arkansas county, all 50 states and about 40 foreign countries. For more information visit http://www.uamshealth.com/news/?id=5350&sid=1&nid=9681&cid=5.
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Family Fall Festival
Monday, December 17th, 2012
For years, UALR Children International has helped support a strong sense of family, and this year has been no exception. On Saturday, November 17th, UALR CI held its annual Family Fall Festival where hundreds were able to enjoy food, games and prizes. Held at the Bishop Lelodies & Goldie Warren Community Development Center in the heart of Central Little Rock, this year’s festivities incorporated a strong focus on family.
Parents, Greek organizations, church members; over 60 volunteers were on hand to ensure the Festival was a great experience had by all. Top events at the festival included a duck pond, bean bag toss, ring toss, the hula-hoop toss, pin the tail on the donkey and other family favorites. Many families were not only able to bond, but were also able to get Thanksgiving turkeys and much needed winter coats for their children.
Families were encouraged to bond and work together as they moved through a myriad of events, games and excitement. The agency’s “Post Office” aided in ensuring the agency met requirements, Parent Council raised over $350, and the children all had a blast! Everyone pulled together to make sure this year’s event went off without a hitch!
“I really appreciate how families were able to enjoy an afternoon of fun together without the worry of cost to prohibit them,” says Stephanie Jones, Volunteer Manager for UALR CI. “We’re thankful for everyone who pulled together to make the Family Fall Festival a great success.”
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