One of my favorite parts about my job with HALO is working directly with the kids we support. Unfortunately, I get so busy with what it takes to provide support for the kids that I often don't get as much one on one time with them as I would like.
I did, however, get the chance earlier this week to spend some time with kids supported through our local HALO Center. HALO partners with other organizations in the area to provide services for at-risk youth, including homeless youth through reStart, a shelter located just a few blocks away from my apartment.
On Monday, I hosted a project about poetry at reStart. Using old, damaged books, the kids utilized the words on the pages to create their own poetry. They were also able to create a painting or drawing about their poem. They were pretty creative and came up with some beautiful poems. Some of them were even inspired to write poems from scratch.
Some sample poems from the project:
"I come with strength of my youth. spirits too bold, eyes of adventure.
Reputation to do no wrong, lament nothing.
Only fill up a place, which may be empty. Strength I have."
"Played the piano
a precious object, and for love, warm, filled with the presence of laughing
In pale tides morning and night littered in heaven."
