Our Wildwood, Winter 2018, Volume 42

“Nothing seemed like it felt too big for them. Children know that they are powerful and that they’re able to create change.”

and the Wildwood community. This hands-on, project-based

WW elementary school, ASOH’s recipients transition from foster care into the greater community and adulthood. With an appreciation for and a new understanding of belonging and being kind to humankind, Wildwood students know they have the power to enrich lives in their communities and beyond. In the words of Dolphin Pod’s Billy L., “It doesn’t matter how old or young you are; you can still change . the world.” heart, indefatigable energy, passion, generosity of spirit, consistency, grace, humility, and determination. As Wildwood’s youngest transition from the Pods into the grades at

considering how they would move it. Then who should magically appear at IKEA? Melissa of ASOH! “We had this couch, she had her van, and we were able to move it to the warehouse,” Tahnee remembers. “It was meant . to be.” Perhaps the most poignant experience was a trip to ASOH’s warehouse. With the help of two parent volunteers, the Dolphin Pod teachers and students unloaded a bus full of home goods alongside ASOH warehouse employees—all former foster youth. By hiring only people who were once in foster care, Georgie and Melissa help those who have navigated a difficult system pay it forward to the next generation of their community. Judah L. aptly called it “a positive domino effect.” After handing off the goods, students could finally put into context their efforts toward making a house . a real home for someone in need. “Our kids never doubted they could solve the problem,” Tahnee says. “Nothing seemed like it felt too big for them. Children know that they are powerful and that they’re able to create change.” Given the richness of this educational experience, Francesca

curriculum, encompassing nearly every subject—social studies, art, technology, math, block-build, and writers’ workshop—is exemplary of Wildwood’s philosophy. The Pods were able to build on and deepen their life skills while establishing an invaluable outward awareness of others. The skills Wildwood’s kindergarteners and 1st graders gained through this project closely mirror the many character-building qualities Georgie and her crew strive to maintain: tenacity, industriousness, a strong work ethic, creativity, ingenuity,

and Tahnee hope to continue the relationship between ASOH

LEFT: Students deliver household items to the warehouse, and former foster youth sisters are settled in their new home.

RIGHT: Dolphin Pod students deliver items to A Sense of Home’s warehouse.