Getting ready for Community Service Workers

The Restorative Justice kids will be here tomorrow. We're getting ready for them. There's lots to do!

The closet really needs some work. While we were away clothes got mixed up and more came in. The kids really have their work cut out for them! They'll also be making jewelry items that will go for sale on eBay. This helps us pay our phone bill and meet other expenses - such as their lunch. :)

This is our first time in working with the Knox County program. I'm looking forward to meeting the kids and having the help. They may have hours to serve but these are not just workers. Each child is a unique person. They deserve to have someone at least try to make a connection with them. We hope to be able to do that. Moreover, we hope to make a difference.

Statistics show that kids from domestic violence households are at an increased risk of getting into trouble. Our theory is if we can make a connection and model positive behavior the kids will gain some idea of what a healthy relationship is like. This can lead to increased self-esteem and decrease the possibility that they will ever need our hotline services.

We've done well making connections. So far, 100% of the kids we've worked with on community service hours have gone on to far exceed the hours set for them. In at least one case the kid not only enjoyed his time here but got his brother to volunteer here too.

To us, that's cool!

Now I'm off to make reminder calls to our volunteers.