After our first YAB meeting on Saturday August 20th, the new Team Leaders and some Youth Volunteers went on an adventure to find our meeting spot for Grahovac's.  Many of us were at least 30 minutes late... a few were even an hour late!! The Youth and Team Leaders decided to take a wonderful tour of Kansas City, Kansas before the project.  We weren't actually lost!! 

When we all arrived we were quickly put to work.  Some volunteers pulled weeds in the mud, leaving them covered in mud from head to toe.  Others cut down a natural wall and did an amazing job clearing away the weeds!  Two Team Leaders got poison ivy from their work at the garden!

Two of the Youth Volunteers gave us a service learning lesson and taught the group about Grahovac's Army and told us why it was so important to help!

In the end the project was a messy success!!

 
 
On August 13 the new team leaders joined the youth on their first project to Sanctuary of Hope. We started with a few ice breakers then picked up some shovels and gloves for yard work. The youth worked on the rain trench, pulling weeds and painting a bench. Sanctuary of Hope can continue to live its mission of "keeping it as a place for wounded souls and hearts to heal". The youth and leaders recognized that each person can have a safe place to heal from the business of the world. It was a beautiful day with some beautiful people of the community. 
 
 
We found an interview from an amazing youth that is still on the Youth Advisory Board a year later. Kerry McHone is still volunteering and showing her dedication through service in the community. Here is the interview with her sister, Katie McHone:


Kerry: What is your favorite part of volunteering?
Katie: I like helping out in the community and the feeling that you get when you help out!

Kerry:Why have you stayed with YVC for so many years?  Katie: Because it's fun and I like volunteering!

Kerry: What is your favorite part of YVC?
Katie: I like there is a group you work with and you are not just alone!

Kerry: Complete this sentence.  I think I'm cool because...
Katie: I help out the community and not very many people do!Thanks Kerry and Katie for all that you do for YVC!
 
 
The point is....to hear what happens at YVC! We want people to see what the youth do from the youth's point of view. Keep checkin' back in to see how different projects and events went. If you would like to add something about how great YVC or your experience feel free to send your stuff to the team leaders at yvc_kc@yvca.org!! Look forward to hearing from you.