The DREAM Program, Putnam Gardens, July 2014

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The Village Mentoring Organization

Putnam Gardens DREAM Update July 2014 Our Putnam Gardens youth enjoyed a fun-filled July. The summer interns provided a wide variety of trips and activities throughout the month.

DREAM Programming:  July 1: For this week’s activity, youth from Putnam Gardens gathered in the courtyard for an afternoon of tie-dye and soccer. Attendees took home red, white, and blue tie-dyed shirts for Fourth of July celebrations.  July 8: The interns and Putnam Gardens youth hosted a bake sale in Harvard square. The youth actively engaged with customers and together, the group raised over ninety dollars to put towards upcoming summer activities.  July 10: Four youth from Putnam Gardens accompanied DREAM staff for a day at the New England Aquarium. Youth had the opportunity to touch stingrays, watch the sea lion show, and learn about marine life.  July 15: The interns and Putnam youth went on an adventure in Harvard Square. After exploring the square, the group relaxed while eating pizza from Crazy Dough’s Pizza.  July 18: One Putnam mentee joined DREAM youth from other Boston Programs for a trip to Duxbury. The group visited Sarah and Jeff, friends and supporters of DREAM, for an afternoon of swimming and basketball.  July 22: The interns hosted an arts and crafts day in the Putnam Gardens community room. Participants made bracelets, used face paint, and created additional craft masterpieces.  July 25: Two youth from Putnam Gardens visited the New England Aquarium. These youth were unable to attend the first trip due to other commitments.  July 29: The interns held an end-of-summer celebration in the Putnam Gardens community room. At the request of the youth, the interns hosted a potluck in which attendees brought various snacks, beverages, and deserts. Youth also did arts and crafts during the event.  July 31: Five youth attended Summer DREAM’s culminating event at South Boston Candlepin. They enjoyed an evening of pizza and bowling with other DREAM youth from across the area.

Summer Trip Recaps

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The Roseway: DREAM sent youth in grades 4th through 8th aboard the Roseway schooner from July 14th through July 18th. Over seven youth from Madison Park Village participated in at least one full day activity, with many attending multiple days. While

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aboard the boat, the group met other DREAM mentees and worked as a team to learn about community, communication, trust, and self worth. Throughout the week our youth learned skills including how to raise the 2,000 pound sails, steer the ship, chart the boats route, and tie different types of knots.

Boston College Trip: Boston DREAM hosted its first ever college week for DREAM youth in grades 6th through 12th the week of July 21st through July 24th. Youth from Somerville, Cambridge, and Roxbury toured Emmanuel College, Roxbury Community College, Boston University, and Suffolk University. During the visits, youth learned about the college application process, student life, and academics.

DREAM Office:  Program Director Hiring: Jason Desrosier ended his time with DREAM at the end of July. We are currently accepting applications for the Program Director position.

Interviews are planned to be held in August and we are excited to bring on an outstanding new member in the coming months.  Program Empowerment Director Transitions: My Americorps term with DREAM comes to a close on August 4th. DREAM is currently in the process of filling my position, and should have a new PED onboard by the Fall.  Summer Appeals: DREAM is amidst its Summer Appeal. Letters were sent out in order to continue funding the wonderful summer activities that are offered each year.

Keep DREAMing!

Katie Purcell Program Empowerment Director Massachusetts Promise Fellow/Americorps Member Katie@dreamprogram.org