Pre-trip service day!
Everyone had met a few times before but the ice had yet to be fully broken as we sat in the room waiting for everyone to arrive. Fortunately by the time we got in the van, conversation was flowing a little easier and we got to know each other better on the ride in to DC :)
Growing up in the area, I’ve been to DC many times before but this time we had something other than sightseeing on our agenda. We pulled into a sparsely populated parking lot and we were greeted by an enthusiastic woman who quickly started telling us about the program and some of the regulars.
A little background about KEEN, they are a non-profit organization whose goal is to get children with disabilities active and raise their self-esteem. These are children who sometimes end up estranged or are restricted from participating in activities with other kids simply because they are on different levels than their peers. KEEN is a safe haven for these children to run around and play without any fear of judgment or opposition from those they’re playing with. Even better, the program is free!!
The head coach was unable to come in that day, so we were let loose with the balls and the kids. But first- we went around in a circle and said our names and favorite movies.
The kids loosened up quickly, it was obvious they were in their zone- bantering or showing off to the best of their ability. I wish I remembered more names but I do remember shooting free throws and wandering around the gym with 19 year old Dion, who told me about his family, favorite foods, and every Disney movie ever made. The two hours ended up passing faster than we could have imagined and it was with reluctance that we finally left the gym and headed back to campus.
This was actually my first time hanging out with special needs children-but when you get down to it was really nothing terrifying. Kids are kids regardless of the small differences in their genetic makeup. When it comes down to it they just need love and acceptance and someone to play with who understands that, and this trip to KEEN really helped put that into perspective for me. Full speed ahead to South Carolina!! -Gladys
