By Kanyinsola Adesoba

As I conclude my third week at Seeds of Caring, I find myself increasingly immersed in the program and more comfortable with my responsibilities. I have now taken on a leadership role in our summer programming, focusing on teaching children how to repurpose items they might have initially considered trash. Through activities centered on recycling, reusing, reducing, and ultimately repurposing, we engaged the kids in thoughtful discussions and hands-on projects.

One of the most memorable moments this week was a conversation I had with a fourth grader. She had tried to create something unique with the materials provided but became disheartened when her project didn’t turn out as she had hoped, especially after seeing her classmates’ successes. I approached her and reminded her of the story we had read, where the protagonist faced several failures but persisted, eventually achieving her dreams. I told her that failure is not a measure of our potential for greatness and encouraged her to keep trying. This conversation had a profound impact on me, reinforcing the importance of resilience and perseverance.

This week’s summer programming has been smooth and rewarding. It has also broadened my perspective on potential career paths. Initially, I was drawn to pediatric nursing because of my love for children. However, my experiences at Seeds of Caring have sparked a growing interest in non-profit organizations, showing me how I can merge my nursing career with community service to create a meaningful impact.

In addition to leading the summer programs, I have been deeply involved in research projects aimed at our organization’s expansion. This has provided me with valuable insights into what it takes to open a business in a new city, including demographic analysis, community needs assessment, and strategic planning.

When not engaged in summer programming, I contribute to office preparations, such as prepping blankets, creating kits for veterans, and organizing meals for donations to other non-profit organizations like Ronald McDonald House. Attending various meetings has been another highlight, as they offer a wealth of knowledge and new ideas about the non-profit sector.

Overall, I am fitting in well at Seeds of Caring and am grateful for the opportunities to learn and grow. This experience continues to shape my career aspirations and my understanding of how to make a lasting difference in the community.

Until next week, have a great time!

Kanyin