Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Washington dc- day 5

Busy day today! We went to Senator Kohls office and talked about education, tuition, and we all got a glimpse of how politics should appear to the public. Next we went to the archives and saw the Bill of Rights, the Constitution, and the Declaration of Independence. It was so cool to see all three original documents. They also had a Benjamin Franklin exhibit and shared quotes, inventions, and his daily life!  After a nice lunch in the park, we got the chance to go to the Smithsonian! A group of us went to the Museum of american history and saw a lot of great things including the flag that inspired the star spangled banner! It was overwhelming to see the massive flag that inspired the tune that Americans hear so often. We then went to the Museum of Natural History and spent quality time exploring there!

When we got back to the McKenna center, we had a presentation from Tom shared stories for awhile, and one of the things he talked about was that after serving people for quite some time , they realized that they need to get to know their clients if they really wanted to help. I think this is significant because they are trying to get to the core, or main issue at hand and many services to people in need don't address them.

We also helped with the Peace Meal at the McKenna center. They porcide a hot meal to men, women, and children. We all helped with different jobs, but we all leaned something valuable from this experience tonight. Some of us had to step out of our comfort zones, and others were learing the power of a kind smile or conversation. But overall,  this experience has helped us challenge our past beliefs and stereotypes about the issues of hunger and homelessness.

Today was a big learning day for all of us, but we can be grateful for what we have done thus far!!
-written by Ashley Andersen

"The good particular men may do separatley...is small, compared with ehay they do collectively"
Benjamin Franklin 1751

3 comments:

  1. Thank you for your postings of the Washington DC trip. I have enjoyed reading the updates each day and admire that way this group has given up their spring break for a volunteer trip. You should all be proud! I hope this helps provide perspective on how fortunate we are and how much help is needed out in the world. Enjoy the rest of your week and safe travels on the return journey home.

    Lynn (Kristen's Mom)

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  2. I'm very jealous about all that you get to see! It must have been a humbling experience to see some of the original items that helped shape and inspire our country.

    -- Shelly (Stewart RHD)

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  3. What great experiences! No doubt that what you have done has made a difference. I've enjoyed reading about your trip - safe travels! Sara Ann

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