This summer, the streets and landmarks of Garden City, Kansas, transformed into vibrant learning hubs for a group of young newcomers, thanks to Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas and the enthusiastic leadership of Esther Reyes. Esther, our lead staff member for the Refugee School Impact Program, orchestrated a summer program that was both educational and integrative for refugee children in our community.

A Journey Through the Local Zoo

The program began with an engaging day at the local zoo, where the children experienced the wonders of wildlife up close. Esther recounts, "The first day, I took them to the zoo where they do some pretty amazing things. We walked around and I showed them the animals. They did a giraffe encounter. And then we got to see an educational program and learn a little bit about the zoo, and touch some animals." This outing was not only fun but also served as an educational tool, introducing the kids to various species and conservation efforts.

Visits to Fire and Police Departments

The following day added a new layer of community familiarity and safety education. "On the second day, we went to the fire department and they got to go on the fire truck. They got to go to the police department and see the inside of that building. They learned a little bit about what the police and firemen do," Esther explained. These visits were instrumental in building a bridge of trust and understanding between the children and local emergency services, showcasing the roles these departments play in community safety.

Cultural Exchange and Literacy Enhancement

The adventures continued with a day dedicated to cultural exchange and literacy. "On the third day, we just stayed at my office and worked on projects. I had ordered stickers of the countries and the foods, and I told them, 'okay, we're gonna learn about each other.' They loved that. The kids got to see where they are all from, their different countries. And then we went to the library where they got on the computers, read, and participated in various activities," said Esther. This day was crucial for fostering a sense of community and self-identity among the children, allowing them to explore and celebrate their diverse backgrounds.

Educational Aspirations and Future Planning

The program does not end with younger children. Esther has plans for the teenagers as well, aiming to broaden their horizons regarding higher education. "Next week, there'll be my 13 to 17 year olds, and that week will be a little different. We're going to be going on a college tour. I want them to get to know the college and see how the college is here since some of them are in high school," she explained. This exposure is intended to inspire these young individuals about their future possibilities in education.

Community Impact and Feedback

The program has received glowing feedback from participants and their families, indicating its success and impact. "The kids have been really having fun, so it's inspiring just to have them go around and see. And the parents are loving it, too. They're like, 'thank you so much!' They're enjoying it. and they're learning as they're enjoying their summer program," Esther said.

This initiative exemplifies our commitment at Catholic Charities to supporting  integration and fostering a welcoming community. Join us in celebrating and supporting these impactful programs that make a real difference in the lives of young refugees and their families. Together, we can continue to build a supportive and inclusive environment for all members of our community.