By Danna Downing
There is no question that life has its challenges and that we all face challenges regularly. But for some families the challenges can be downright overwhelming on a steady basis. Despite their best efforts, they need support and guidance in achieving life’s basic goals.
Getting a good education and sustainable employment is one of our most important goals. It takes great effort and all kinds of striving to achieve our full potential in the world. We each start in different places, but all success requires hard work. It works best when we have the support we need to succeed.
Some of us can benefit from a program like STRIVE, which is available to Vicksburg High School seniors and their families. STRIVE is a partnership between Vicksburg High School and the Rotary Club of Vicksburg. STRIVE students who are seniors work with Rotarians and other adult coaches to set and achieve meaningful graduation goals. Together, they seek to create a realistic post-graduation plan. By collaborating with teachers, community career-building experts, and family members, STRIVE coaches do their part to help their students transition successfully from high school to a career that fits with the student’s abilities and aspirations. This year, 18 students started and completed the STRIVE program with their volunteer mentors.
I am happy to report that I had the privilege of being one of those coaches. My student and his family are truly amazing. My student lives with his aunt and her husband. There are three other family members living in the house as well, each with their own special story and special needs. The adults in the household have made a commitment to their blended family that is noteworthy. They have big hearts, but resources are stretched to the limit. My student has experienced many unplanned losses and changes in his young life. He has survived. He is bright and determined. But circumstances have made it harder for him to feel confident, secure, and able to focus fully on school demands. Fortunately, his family knows the value of education and works hard to support all their charges.
My student has a lot of positive things going on in his life. As his coach, I was able to provide additional adult support when needed. At school, I was able to interface with his teachers when parents were working. In getting to know this young man, I was in a position to listen, understand, and assist when he needed encouragement and support. I learned a great deal about the importance of human striving under difficult circumstances. I respect and cherish this student and his family. I feel incredibly lucky to be a part of this family’s life.
I have also realized how lucky we all are to live in Vicksburg and in Kalamazoo County, where educators, community members and many others seek to support our children into adulthood and beyond. If you would like to learn more about the STRIVE program or become a part of a very rewarding effort, contact Kathy Forsythe, the STRIVE Program Coordinator, at kforsythesouthcountynews@gmail.com.
