Reflections on ’21 and hope for ’22

“For last year’s words belong to last year’s language.
And next year’s words await another voice.”

― T.S. Eliot

Our students’ reflections on a year of growth

At this time last year, I couldn’t have predicted what 2021 would bring. Thanks to you– our dear supporters– and to the generosity of our foundation partners, we were able to expand our summer partnerships and start our Rise Initiative, which saw a successful first semester this fall.

One of my favorite projects the students have been working on is thanks to the Indiana Writers Center, a local nonprofit. They have been coming in to the Center and working with our group on different prompts and how to express their thoughts and reactions to the program and their personal lives through writing.

It’s allowed them to get their emotions and feelings off of their chest. They have been focused on:

• How to take detailed notes (which will help them stay organized in both their personal and professional/scholarly lives!)
• Effective communication
• Writing skills designed for future careers

It’s been a blessing having them here.

With permission from both Jujuan and Jackson, I’ve shared photos of recent journal entries. I love seeing ones like Jackson where he discusses the long-term bonds that have been formed at FHC. Seeing students engaged with one another and their community is one of the highlights of our work.

Speaking of community engagement, my granddaughter and program participant, Hadessa, is working with FHC as our student environmental advocate. She has been working on creating a recycle system at FHC and has presented it to her fellow students.

Our summer program director, Naomi, gave a presentation about effective temperature control for produce and how some of her work at FHC related to that.

The FHC Crew spreading the word out in the communities has bee in full force!

I know at the end of the year, you may be making final decisions about where to direct any non-profit giving. If you feel a calling to support the work here at FHC, know that your contributions will go directly to these students and these programs.

Thank you for a successful 2021 & may God bless you in the coming year.