To me, the term “Community” in “Community Building Day” means a sort of fellowship. We had the chance to spend time with people who share common interests and values. Sitting at each station for half an hour gave time for us to speak with and listen to our peers and those from a different part of our community. We built on our community by spending intentional time together.
I contributed a unique perspective to the fellowship we enjoyed on Community Building Day. I did not provide a laborious service like some of the other teams that day. Instead I served by providing a listening ear, and fresh perspective. I talked to the On Track students in my group about life after college at length. A senior girl in my group was very surprised when I told her that I had spent last year in Kenya and taken a gap year, before attending Whitworth University. I was able to share useful advice regarding the decisions she will make this year.
I hope that I was a meaningful part of the supportive community that she and other students have at On Track. A supportive community makes all the difference in the lives of those that come from difficult or harsh environments. On a the most basic level, it was clear that for some, the On Track community meant graduating from high school, instead of dropping out and entering the work force. On an emotional level, On Track provides a community of dependable adults who believe in and uplift each student. When a student comes from a harsh environment, they might not have the physical or emotional support that they need to thrive at home. It is amazing that On Track can provide this support for its students and that we were able to build on that, if only just a little.
I was surprised to see and contribute to such a individualized and effective education system. It was very different from the education systems I was a part of in Kenya, and the contrasts were stark. I caught glimpses of strong relationships and investment from both sides, and it was beautiful.
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