Monday's Update!

Monday Update:

(Sorry it’s late, we have limited internet access.)

As always, today was an exciting day in the life of a Coe student staying in New York!

We began our day far too early as we left the church at 7:15 to be in lower Manhattan at YSOP, the organization we’re working with, by 8am. First we had a quick breakfast, a short history of YSOP, statistics about homelessness and hunger in NYC, and safety tips on the subway and at our service sites.

One group at a soup kitchen in the Bronx, Part of the Solution (POTS).

YSOP is an organization that focusses on homelessness and hunger outreach. They work to find groups sites to serve through while they stay in NYC. They explained the difference between homeless and hungry people, saying that homeless people are those without proper housing. In New York City, there are about 40,000 people who are homeless. Of that number, 16,000 are under age 18. This statistic only includes people who have stayed in city-run shelters, not anyone who stays on the streets or in private or religiously-affiliated shelters.

Hungry people are those who do not have access to adequate amounts of food sometimes or always. All homeless people are automatically considered hungry because if they don’t have housing, they probably don’t have food. Housing is considered the first thing anyone would choose in such their situation.

As a group, we discussed why people might be homeless or hungry, and responses ranged from disabilities prevent people from accurate housing to natural disasters to unemployed or underemployed to things like family issues and domestic violence. It was a helpful beginning to our service experience to know a little about the population and statistics of those we were serving.

Soon we were off to our respective NYC organizations. All of our groups were sent to a different soup kitchen or food pantry: 2 in the Bronx and 1 in Brooklyn. During reflection we talked about the food we served, the people we worked with, and a little about how we felt at each service site. We talked about choice and community and compared the soup kitchens we worked with to some that we’ve worked with in different cities like Atlanta, Chicago, and Cedar Rapids.

A common theme we found among the places we worked is that people at these shelters get a lot of choice and personalized discussions. At many soup kitchens, for example, you get what they serve you--no personalized menus, but here people get what they ask for if they make a special request. The people served at each soup kitchen seem to know each other and have personal connections with the staff who know almost everyone’s stories. It’s really interesting to compare that situation with those we’ve encountered in the past where people come in, each a little food that we would never eat, and leave without so much as a thank you.

Overall, there is general consensus among our group that homelessness and hunger are much more prevalent in NYC, which might be why it seems to be so much more accepted or perhaps less of a negative stereotype. The people we’ve talked to don’t seem to feel ashamed necessarily, but rather grateful that there are people in the world willing to help them fix a temporary issue such as hunger so that they can focus their attention on something more important than a basic human need and help themselves ultimately get out of a tough situation. In other places, people don’t seem as open to accepting their situations.

We ended our day at Times Square seeing many shops and so many lights. It was a bit cold, but we pressed on and made it back to the church safely to wake up bright and early for another day of service.

A Reverent, Humbling Day

We’ve survived our first day out in the city!

Our morning began with a delicious breakfast as church leaders began setting up for church. One person we met this morning, Robert, explained that he has lived in Brooklyn his entire life, and he loves it here. Neighborhood residents joke that he’s like the mayor because he’s such a friendly guy who knows everyone. After talking about his life in Brooklyn, we asked if he would ever visit a farm. He commented that he has been to a farm in South Carolina with a friend; “it was nice and peaceful to visit, but I could never live there,” a common comment similar to one many of our students have made about New York.

As we finished our breakfast, we headed out to the train station conveniently located just a few feet from the church. We bought metro passes and headed to Manhattan. For many students, riding the subway was a first. Although some students were nervous, we made it to Manhattan where we walked around Wall Street, saw the bull and famous Tiffany’s, and ate lunch. Per Robert’s recommendation, we went inside Trinity Cathedral, a beautiful church in lower Manhattan. Soon thereafter was what many students call an emotional journey through Ground Zero.

The Wall Street sign.

The famous bull representing the tough stock market exchange.

Jessica having breakfast at Tiffany's.

Trinity church.

As we entered the site, we were in awe of what we saw. Where the north and south towers stood now house massive, seemingly never-ending waterfall fountains of sorts. Each fountain is probably at least an acre large, if not larger. Surrounding each fountain is a ledge in which the people who died have names engraved. To many, it is a truly touching and emotional experience. Some people hugged each other, some left roses for those who have fallen, and others stood in silence. In the middle of busy, bustling Manhattan, we found serenity and solitude at Ground Zero.

Part of the ledge of the south tower with engraved names of those who died.

The only surviving tree from the 9/11 attacks that was nursed to health for 9 years and introduced to the memorial a year ago.

When leaving the site, our group discussed the feelings the site brings up. We discussed where we were on September 11, 2001. Most of us were in elementary school and watched the attacks on the news all morning in patient silence while no one explained what was happening. We were so young that these planes crashing into buildings meant almost nothing to us. “What are the Twin Towers? What are terrorists? Why does this matter?” We had no clue, but we knew it meant something, and we knew it meant something bad so we sat--unable to speak, and still unable after more than 10 years to speak as we stood in reverence to such a monumental event in American history.

We discussed what the fountains represent. In the middle of each fountain is a large hole into which you cannot see from the edge. We discussed that this might represent the never-ending pain many feel because of the attacks, an accurate representation of so many things unknown during and after September 11, 2011. The emotional morning gave us a sense of unity, a sense of understanding that Ground Zero is a testament to our nation’s history, an accurate representation that we are Americans and despite everything that happens around us, we are still united. We have a common history that cannot be shaken. Some students felt incredibly appreciative for what they have after such a historic experience.

One of the fountains at Ground Zero.

We then headed off to the Smithsonian where, oddly enough, we ran into some Coe students. We learned much about American Indian history and their struggles through time. Quotes and pictures on the wall depicted different ideas of life in pueblos. From an outsider's perspective, the American Indians were generous and interesting entertainers, but to the American Indians, they were just themselves. They had customs and traditions; they believed in kindness. However, as settlers came, they stripped away those important traditions one by one. Dance became entertainment, not celebration, for example. One quote on the wall said that children were no longer allowed to speak Indian in school. Settlers even took away their language.

To finish up the day, we headed to Staten Island. Most of us experienced our first ferry ride, which was considerably colder than expected. We were excited to finally arrive at the island after seeing the Statue of Liberty up close, and we dispersed in small groups to eat dinner. Although many restaurants were closed, we made some interesting discoveries. Some ate Chinese food and others found a Mexican restaurant.

Part of the group waiting for the ferry.

The ferry dock in Staten Island.

A view of the Statue of Liberty from the ferry.

Overall today was an exciting, information-packed adventure, and we’re excited to begin our service experience tomorrow. As always, stay tuned!

Peace.

Saturday Night Update (Posted on Sunday)

Hello again, Readers! This time from NYC! 

We’re excited, anxious, nervous, and (honestly) overwhelmed to be here! It’s almost surreal to finally feel the city and settle into this small church in a bustling, Hispanic neighborhood in Brooklyn. As we approached the city, mouths were agape as we took in the incredibly beautiful skyline. Buildings stood tall and lights shone brightly as we pulled into the city, ready to take on whatever came our way (especially traffic). Our courageous leaders navigated through the city, and we finally arrived at Sunset Park Community Church.

The sights, sounds, smells, and overall culture of the city are extremely different from what we know, but we’re adapting quickly. We’re learning the streets around the church, a million and one safety tips, and traffic laws in the city. (Did you know that honking your horn in traffic can result in a $350 fine?! Certainly not as depicted in the movies!)

Our biggest challenge so far was finding parking, but we quickly found a relatively simple solution for that at another church close by thanks to our New York City expert, Rick. We’ve eaten the most delicious food (Mexican-Chinese, New York style pizza, and Burger King) and seen some interesting stores and shops. We’ve encountered (from a distance mostly) the famous Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Lincoln Tunnel, and experienced the wonderful world of expensive tolls.

Katie G and Katie G devour a super delicious milkshake!

Kayla and Wendy enjoy pizza!

I know it seems like our trip is basically complete, but, indeed, it has hardly begun. When asked what they are most excited about, students said things like seeing more of the city, serving a new population, and riding on the subway for the first time. Tomorrow we’ll certainly be doing some of that as we head out by train to see some typical New York City sights, like Ground Zero and Staten Island.

Stay tuned for our exciting adventures!

ASB: Day 1

Hello readers,

We've officially awoken in Fremont, Ohio from our first night on the road! Almost 8 hours after departure, we finally approached our hotel, battling carsickness, sore butt syndrome, and extreme NYC anticipation. Oh the relief to finally see a bed to crash into, an outlet to charge our phones, and a shower.

Not a lot has happened so far, just some intense games of Fed-Ex, quiet conversations, the license plate game, and lots of napping. After a good night's sleep, some solid recharging, and food, we'll be prepared for the second stretch of travel to the Big Apple! NYC, here we come!

Spring Break, Here We Come!

Happy March, lovely readers!

With only one day to go until spring break, students are cracking down, spending countless hours in the library, reading books, writing papers, and praying that spring break comes quickly.

This year, as some students head off to Florida or Cabo or anywhere warm, really, our office is leading a group of 12 students to New York City for ASB 2012. There, we'll be serving the homeless, reflecting on our experiences, and truly immersing ourselves in the culture of the bustling New York City streets.

Most of the students have never been to New York City, and some of them have never been to a big city, so it will certainly be an interesting, unique, and most of all exciting experience. We'll keep you posted on our awesome adventures in the Big Apple!

Cedar Rapids Dance Marathon: Year 2

Hey y'all!
The office has been busy lately as we settle in, preparing first year students to complete their service requirements and securing program volunteers for the semester, but we're still pressing forward!

This week, in honor of recruitment week for Cedar Rapids Dance Marathon (CRDM) 2012, I'm excited to tell you all a bit about the program and share some updates with you.

To begin, Dance Marathon is a national program designed for participants (AKA dancers) to raise money for the Children's Miracle Network. Dancers are required to stand for 12 hours without caffeine. All Cedar Rapids Dance Marathon funds go directly to the University of Iowa Children's Hospital focusing on non-cancer related medical expenses for families, things for the children staying there to do, improving the classroom for long-term patients, research, et cetera. They chose non-cancer related issues because the University of Iowa's Dance Marathon, which also benefits U of I Children's Hospital, focuses on cancer.

Last year, CRDM raised more than $25,000; this year's goal is $35,000. All dancers are encouraged to raise $100 to support 15 families currently staying at the University of Iowa Children's Hospital. So far, just over $9,000 has been raised!

As mentioned above, this week is recruitment work. You can help make miracles by heading out and donating money or attending one of these events:

• Tonight was CiCi's Night
• Tuesday, Feb 21: Coldstone Night (6-9pm)--it's also Teal Tuesday so wear teal!
• Thursday, Feb 23: Info session at 8pm in Stuart 405 @ Coe--come learn about CRDM!
• Saturday, Feb 25: PUB Dance with Rugcutters-8-11pm
• Tuesday, Feb 28: IHOP Day-come to IHOP for a free stack of pancakes and donate to CRDM! 8am-8pm

To donate, register as a dancer, or learn more about CRDM, click here! Only 53 days to go! The big event is April 14, 2012! Don't miss out!

Cedar Rapids Honors MLK, Jr.

As classes begin yet again, Coe students have enveloped themselves in the spirit of service as some participated in activities on MLK, Jr Day of Service. Approximately 175 Cedar Rapids residents and 15 Coe students volunteered to make a difference.

Noel Rozum, VISTA in the office, welcomed the audience at an opening ceremony at Mt. Mercy University and introduced Mt. Mercy's chaplain who opened with a prayer, thanking God for allowing us to be there to help others.

Rozum then introduced Mt. Mercy's president, Dr. Blake who officially welcomed the audience to Mt. Mercy and thanked everyone for being there.

Mayor Corbett was also introduced and officially dubbed Monday, January 16, 2012, as MLK, Jr. Day of Service. Then he introduced Coe student Tevin Bell, who recited part of MLK, Jr's famous "I Have a Dream" speech.

In the lobby, Mt. Mercy students created a post-it note mural where participants were prompted to write notes of encouragement including their hopes, dreams, and wishes.

As the ceremony ended, the audience dispersed to their service sites. As they painted, served the homeless, chopped wood, changed locks, and organized food pantries, they were reminded of Martin Luther King, Jr. who dedicated his life to justice and service. His dream was to live in a nation that would "rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: 'We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.'"

From the incredible turnout, clearly we are seeing MLK's dream through--treating those in need as our equals, and always remembering a brave man who fought for his entire country, that we would be a prosperous, forgiving society dedicated to assisting those in need. There's not a better way to celebrate such an important man.