The first week of work was a bit overwhelming. Between all the information that has been thrown at me, to all the names of participants I have to learn, to all the directions to various schools, venues : there is a lot to take on. But I am up to the challenge.

I have had opportunity to meet and work with the participants and other workers and I think that I am really going to like the work. I think the most challenging part of work will be being open and pushing myself out of my comfort zone, so that the participants feel safe and comfortable. I have a lot to learn in terms of doing lifts, changing diapers, understanding their likes and dislikes- but this will come in time with the training and involvement.

The other workers explain to me how "Sally" needs diapers changed or "Bill" has seizures on a regular basis- as if this is just normal for me to witness and take care of. But I am slowly discovering that indeed that is one of the main purposes of Out and About. To make participants feel that they are a part of a community that desires to integrate them and grant them social interaction while promoting their strengths. If you treat people with respect and they in turn can feel empowered (despite their social, physical, or mental limitations) you can’t help but notice how they really aren’t that different.

My daily work as a Recreation Instructor varies, but I will give an overview of what I am to do. Every other day I will divide my work between the day program (that works with adults) and the after-school program with the kiddios. Let’s say I am working in the day program. I go into the office and pick up a vehicle for transportation. Then I would pick up anywhere from 1-4 participants and take them to activity for the day, which could include bowling, swimming, field trips, etc. At that activity we would meet up with other participants and instructors. Then I would be responsible for taking my participants home or to an allotted base site. So the job description requires me knowing my way around the Boulder area and the surrounding counties (which I don’t….so that is the fun part). And it also requires a lot of independence and motivation because while I am surrounded by other workers; I am still solely responsible for my participants and their needs. So far I have gone swimming with the after-school program, bowled and swam with the adults, participated in rhythm and movement with kids, and also attended an Irish/Scottish festival in Estes Park.

This weekend I have been contemplating on my time here thus far and I think the best phrase that sums it up is that this feels like a “God-thing”. I have been amazed at the friendliness and openness of the Out and About staff and how real they are. Paid positions at the agency aren’t really that great of income- so to see all these young adults working full-time for little money, while enjoying what they are doing- has been a blessing. They are passionate about the relationships they have with participants and it definitely shows. And the church community is so welcoming and loving. We had a church retreat up at Glacier View Ranch and it was a great time of playing games and getting to know some of the members. I had the opportunity to talk with several members about their experiences in the Middle East and that was a joy. Plus it snowed and hailed on the ride up there, so that was fun to experience in September!

I definitely feel God’s presence in this place and am reminded daily of His beautiful creation and amazing grace. I don't have to be here right now- could be making money somewhere. But honestly, I don't think I would want to be anywhere but here. Such a great, life-giving experience ahead and I am so glad that I have felt called by God to embark on this adventure. Many people at work have asked me what I'll be doing for a year or who the Mennonites are- and it's refreshing to tell them. All seem pleasantly surprised to know I will be volunteering for a whole year.

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance character; and character, hope. Romans 5:1-4