All Are Welcome at Wright "The Farm"

An AmeriCorps member reads to a child as part of the CalSERVES program.

If I’ve learned anything at CalSERVES, it’s how to be “inclusive.” Deriving, undoubtedly from the Tribes curriculum, it’s one of our favorite buzzwords. The word encourages not only students but also adults to make one another feel comfortable in a group setting. For new comers, it’s always awkward to insert themselves into an established group. “Inclusion” efforts take the stress and anxiety out of this equation. Why in the world does this matter? Is this even relevant to our year at CalSERVES? I would like to take a minute to thank each and every member of Wright's CalSERVES (#thefarm’s) team for putting this into practice.

 A few months ago, we were lucky enough to gain two new members. Prior to that, in October we adopted another new member. During both of these occasions, I was so gratified to see the rest of the team rally around our new members. They introduced themselves, participated in their training, allowed the new girls to shadow them, anything! At a point where it seemed that one extra thing would break us, these new additions made us stronger. The girls added energy. They kept everyone on their toes.

Thank you, Wright team. You’ve all impressed me to no end. It’s incredible to see, even though you’re stretched to your limits, you all still extend a hand. Wherever you all end up, never forget the power of kindness.

by Lauren Loeffler, AmeriCorps Team Leader at Wright Charter School