Spring officially began on Saturday, and we are feeling hopeful and optimistic about the upcoming months. Here are several ARC updates and student writing to bring you inspiration in this new season.
ARC Book Drive for Summer 2021 – We want to expand our student library of books and have created a short “wish list” through Powell’s website. Additionally, if you would like to recommend or donate fiction or non-fiction books relevant to and readable by middle and high school students, we would love to hear your recommendations and receive your donations. Our mailing address is on the contact page of our website.
ARC Presentation to TTUSD Board – ARC participants Iran and Isaac Pacheco, along with Program Coordinator Kaela Frank, presented to the Tahoe Truckee Unified School District Board last month. You can watch their presentation by clicking here. Iran and Isaac spoke about the impact of the program and read their own written work. Below the photo is an excerpt of Iran’s presentation to the school board.
Because of ARC, I am a different person…. I am happier and more involved. I used to work every day during the summer, following the same schedule, at three jobs. I rarely had enough time to myself, and I often felt stressed and tired. I would have been in a similar situation this year had I not joined ARC. I used to feel sad and bored after finishing homework and work, because I had nothing to do afterwards, but ARC organizes fun trips and activities such as the ropes course, skating, skiing, and hiking. I used to be really nervous about taking risks, but through ARC I began to see the benefits. There’s nothing like the adrenaline that comes from trying new things…. Being outside more and staying active has made me more energetic, focused, and happy.
I believe now, more than ever, that life is just too short, and because of this we need to explore, discover, and get out more. In addition to these activities, the weekly [Community Leadership] meetings are a joy to be a part of. I get to express myself without fear of judgment, say what’s on my mind, and share my story. Now I have something to look forward to during the week and weekends. These things keep me busy, happy and even hungry to do more for myself…. I learned, experienced, acknowledged, built, and found so much through this program. The skills I gained helped me become a better sister, friend and leader for those around me.
New ARC Video! – We are excited to be releasing a new video this Thursday, March 25th at 4PM, highlighting the ARC experiences of two alumni: Salvador Meza Lemus and Ace Mejia Sanchez. If you would like to watch the new video as soon as it’s released, you can find it here. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for a reminder about the video premier.
ARC Summer Application Available Now – ARC is currently accepting applications for three month-long summer courses: Yosemite, Sequoia and Tahoe. If you know a high school student who would be interested in this opportunity, share our online application! The deadline is April 23rd.