Civic Educational Program for children

http://www.mysanantonio.com/default/article/Program-That-Teaches-Children-to-be-Agents-of-4036825.php

I found this article to be interesting because a lot of the time civic engagement programs are focused on teens or adults to help them realize their potential. This program on the other hand focuses on children. “Deport-es  Compartir/Sports for Sharing” started in Mexico in 2007. It teaches children, age 6-12, to recognize social problems and understand that their actions have impact on their community. The program fuses active games and experiences that focus on values such as tolerance, respect, gender equality, responsibility and teamwork to educate the kids.

                The Director of the program, Dina Buchbinder said, “Our goal is to awaken the change agent that every child has within himself. While having fun, they realize that they can have a role in positivity impacting their own communities.” The program is expanding to the US through a non-profit organization called “Thinkers”. “Thinkers” focuses on improving the lives of immigrants through educational opportunities. The pilot program is set to begin in the winter, 2013 semester. The goal, according to the article, is to expand to other school districts in the US with significant Hispanic populations. Melrose Park, IL is the first recipient of the program. This community is mostly Mexican-American.

                I am looking forward to seeing how this program influences the children of America. I am a strong believer that every child has the potential to be and do whatever they dream of. Teaching and empowering these children is crucial to make them realize their worth. The program also focuses on  teacher training and parental involvement.