Personal Narrative: Volunteering At West Minneha

When volunteering at West Minnehaha it made me realize things that I didn’t pay attention to before going in. The point was to build relationships, problem solve, what to do in a conflict situation, and step outside of my comfort zone. I learned how to do every single one of those things. I realized that the kids are in need of someone who they can look up to and a dependable person who they can count on. For example, I was looking after a few kids that were doing homework and when walking around I hear a conversation of two kids. Allysiah was going off about how it’s great to have both of her parents together and when she needs help with homework she can count on them. Adam on the other hand only has his mother. Allysiah went on saying how she loves both of her parents and the things they buy her. …show more content…
Later that same day I had the opportunity to talk with Adam while playing basketball. I asked how he was doing, how was school, what he learn in class, what he ate for lunch, and to tell me a positive thing that happened in school. Adam stared and laughed, saying why do I want to know about him and I said that I want to become his friend. He began to answer my questions and I could tell he was getting comfortable around me. I asked where his dad was Adam said he lives in Florida with his girlfriend but he hasn’t talked to his dad in forever. He said the only man that he looked up to was his grandpa Frank teaching him how to fish and make him feel special. He said growing up without his grandpa has been the hardest thing in his life but he is managing. I said that he has to open up to his mom and talk about how he is feeling but if he isn’t ready to talk to his mom to go ahead and talk with Bilal (recreation manager). Bilal is always there for the kids when they are in need of help or someone to talk with. I said that he could count on me for