Laura Goodyear visits Youth Alive
I spent my third year of University in Ghana, West Africa. I had the opportunity to spend a semester working with Youth Alive. I feel blessed to have worked with this organization because of the compassion they show towards street children. I like their ideology of taking young children off the streets and giving them the opportunity to learn and grow through schooling and trades. This approach helps to prepare them for a promising future.My time at Youth Alive was spent in the junior classroom where children were introduced to basic English and Mathematics in an informal school setting. My fondest memories are of their smiles, affection, and devotion to learn as much as they could while they were attending my class. I will always remember the Math competitions we would have and how well they always wanted to do. I remember telling and reading them stories that they loved to hear. Sometimes it seemed like they never wanted to leave my side, they just craved so much attention and love.
While working at Youth Alive, I was fortunate to play soccer (football) with a Youth Alive sponsored team called the Tamale Queens. It was an amazing experience being able to connect with these girls through the game of soccer. I really enjoyed my time training and playing with the girl's team. I also had some supportive fans from my class at Youth Alive who would follow me daily to the Tamale Stadium.
While at Youth Alive (Tizaa meaning 'Our Home') I always remember the song that the children sang in my classroom:
Great change, since I came to Tizaa.
Great change, since I came to Tizaa.
Greant change, since I came to Tizaa.
It's been a great change since I came here.
The truck I use to push, I push it no more.
The seeds I use to pick, I pick them no more.
The shoe shine I use to do, I do it no more.
I truly believe that this is the heart of Youth Alive, taking young children off of the streets and putting them into a positive environment that enables them to prepare for a brighter future.
