It takes a village to raise a child. This phrase has been said a million times since I was a kid. But, it really hit home when I became a mom and then a teacher. It truly does take a village to raise a child nowadays. And if a child is born into poverty or in a low socioeconomic area, we know they really need a city. Rueben Randle and his family want to be that city. They are a small outfit, but they are growing. In his hometown of Bastrop, LA, Rueben, and his family along with many volunteers are practicing what they preach by giving back.
Now, I am going to sound really biased in this post, and that’s because I am. I am smitten with the Randle family and their love for their community. A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to work as a volunteer at the Rueben Randle Football Camp. It was amazing! Early as heck, but amazing. I blogged about it of course!
This past weekend, Rueben Randle’s family decided to celebrate the success of the camp by showing love to the volunteers. They fed us! Hallelujah! This was not just any old dinner. They invited us to a home-cookin’ staple in Monroe, La- Dankin Trail. Not sure about the name, but the food is deliciosa.
I ate and ate. It was fantastic. The conversations and camaraderie were second to none. When you get an opportunity to be a part of a cause for change, do it!
First, I have not seen so much love and support for a cause in years! We hugged like we were long lost, friends. Everyone was so excited to unite and see each other again. And yes, we just saw each other on the 11th. And your point is? :)
Before dinner, Troye Randle (Rueben Randle’s mom) had everyone tell who they were and a little spill about what they learned, saw or appreciated at the camp. What transpired was… (I really want to use another word besides amazing, but I got nothin). You had to be there. It seemed spiritual. It felt like we were making a difference. Isn’t that what volunteering should feel like? It felt like together we could change the course of these kids’ lives. You can tell that the volunteers and I are sold on this family and the impact they are making, Right?
As I stated, we were there to celebrate the success of the camp and to discuss future plans. But, I got lost in conversation with one of the volunteers who is a retired 30-year-old teacher. You know the educator in me was jumping to come out!
Some of the few things we talked about are improving the school system and helping kids from the perspective of a volunteer. We talked about my coming down when I have time and speaking to single parents. We discussed what she is doing to educate parents on what they don’t know in order to be able to fully support their kids. And, we discussed how this camp and programs like it are so needed. And, she does this for free! What a volunteer!
I must admit I was enjoying our talk. But the next thing I know, Mr. Richard Winder, Director of RRLF, announced a new initiative they are rolling out this September: The ASAP Program. This will be an after school enrichment program that is free for participants. I was like Wow! (Yes. Again I was amazed!) This is clearly not something to do because it looks good. To this family, it is a mission and a call to give back and serve.
Programs that can teach inner-city youth how to take advantage of a good education and that provide community resources are necessary to turn the tide that we are seeing. To decrease the disparity in economic gaps we need to educate our community. This camp and the enrichment program are a start. That’s really why I’m smitten. I know first hand that education changes lives for the better. May we all stand up for the little ones in our communities and say “let me take you higher”.
Of course, I also got to interview the shy, talented and dedicated Rueben Randle. He spoke poignantly about why he felt his camp was important to his hometown and to him. He discussed the impact he wants to make and why. This inspiring man said that growing up, they did not have much and he wants little boys and girls to achieve their goals. He wants them to know that they can do what they dream.
As I end this post, I cannot tell you how that hot summer day changed my life while working with the kids, parents, volunteers, and this family. It feels good to help others. I’ve committed to helping as long as they need me. You can put that in stone.
So, I encourage you to get up, get out, and volunteer. Our communities need US. There is no calvary. We must unite and work together to ensure every child has a great foundation to stand on. Education should certainly be one of the main ingredients. Go be a city!
Do It Anyway!
