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Community Bridges is important to girls because...
"...it really supports students to become healthy, productive adults. We need more programs like Community Bridges." |
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Jump Start Girls!
An Intern’s Perspective
Jump Start Intern Arina Kadam (far left) enjoyed
skating with 4th grade girls from Oak View Elementary
at Wheaton Ice Rink.
By Arina Kadam
Intern, Jump Start Girls Elementary School Program
University of Maryland ?2011, Chemistry
Throughout my time as an intern with the Community Bridges Elementary School program, Jump Start Girls, I have had many opportunities to grow as an individual while simultaneously contributing to the well-being of our community. I help out at both Oak View ES and Rolling Terrace ES, and at first glance they might seem like your typical elementary schools, with the playground, colorful classrooms, and smiling staff. However, the students are not typical, but rather extraordinary. It has been such an honor to work with these girls, and I continue to cherish every moment spent with them. Every new day brings a new experience, and a new lesson to be learned. In addition to being hands-on at the elementary schools, I have also had opportunities within the office to expand my leadership skills. Recently, I have been participating in the committee meetings for Community Bridges?annual conference, coming up this spring. The girls in the programs have often times had to fend for themselves, but Community Bridges provides them with a safe place and a source of healthy life lessons to enhance themselves. With the conference, they will be able to see more of the big picture that the organization is working towards. Overall, I think the work Community Bridges does with the girls in the Silver Spring area is admirable, and the girls themselves would agree that the programs have given them hope for their futures.