CISNTblog

The United Way of Denton County has been a tremendous partner to Communities In Schools of North Texas.  Today, the volunteers of “The Youth Way” committee came to visit the CISNT program at Calhoun Middle School as a part of their overall annual appropriations process. 

The annual United Way of Denton County visit to our program is a milestone of sorts for me.  I joined CISNT January 2004 - today was my fifth meeting with this amazing group of dedicated volunteers.  The visit reminds me that the calendar has clipped off another year.  Time moves so fast.  Today, the annual United Way of Denton County visit served as a haunting reminder that as time marches on, the problem is getting bigger not smaller. 

Today, we shared with The Youth Way committee the sobering statistic that the number of “economically disadvantaged” students in the area has increased about 30% in the last two years.  This is a troubling reality that we struggle to communicate to the community each day.

Today, we shared with The Youth Way committee the growing need for more CISNT programs, a need that far outpaces the financial support CISNT has previously received.

Today, we shared with The Youth Way committee stories of success, amazing volunteer achievements, and the basic need for eye glasses, clothing, food, mentors…and students who are elated when they receive a mentor or get help from a CISNT Campus Manager.

Today, Joe Ader spoke passionately to The Youth Way committee of the commitment from the surrounding community to roll up their sleeves and make a difference at schools like Calhoun.

Today, CISNT board member, Sam Burke spoke about years of serving as a CISNT director and the need for more board members to rise up from the Little Elm commuity, the Denton community and the Alliance/Northwest community.

Today, I was encouraged that in spite of what sometimes feels like overwhelming odds, a few people can truly make a difference.

Today, I was reminded why I work at Communities In Schools of North Texas…