Ann & Cecelia
As summer draws to a close, we want to shine some light on the dedicated volunteers who have made this summer so special for HFH youth residents. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, children experiencing homelessness have twice the rate of learning disabilities and three times the rate of emotional and behavioral problems of children who have homes. It is for this reason; we celebrate this dynamic duo of retired teachers who make a significant impact on the lives of the children enrolled in our programs.
Ann Blocher and Cecelia Tyszkiewicz have been supporting the children of Harford Family House in their academic journeys for several months in many capacities. Last summer, Ann attended the HFH Open House. Feeling moved by our mission; Ann soon pitched the idea to start a Homework Club for the kids. In conjunction with Cecelia, who felt inspired by the children experiencing homelessness she worked with during her time as a teacher, the Homework Club began.
Ann and Cecelia began meeting with a group of 8 kids every week, working on homework and establishing relationships that would help to encourage academic success. When the children finish their homework, they create fun crafts, learn to garden, or spend time playing games. Cecelia described that they try to “provide a warm, encouraging, welcoming space for the kids to work, create, and express themselves, while spending time with their peers.” During a time that can be scary and uncertain for children, Ann and Cecelia helped build a support system of adults who care about [the children], their families, and their future.
As the school year concluded, Ann and Cecelia decided they wanted to maintain the relationships they built with the kids and continue to endorse a sense of community among them. To do this, the duo took the kids on several summer outings including trips to the farm fair, library, movie theater, bowling, mini golf, and a girl’s day out to Amazing Glaze. Ann noticed during their bowling excursion that only one child had been bowling prior to their outing.
When asked about their biggest take aways from their time spent volunteering with the kids, Cecelia commented that “whatever small things we can do for others, should be done.” Ann also added that she finds it incredibly important that she “give up a few hours a week of her time to help others feel valued and cared for.”
Harford Family House is incredibly grateful to have this remarkable duo as part of our dedicated volunteer team. Their contributions to our young residents’ success are immeasurable and lifelong. Harford Family House would not be the same without their weekly visits.
References
Caring for the Health and Wellness of Children Experiencing Homelessness. (2024, June 3). Head Start | ECLKC. https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/pdf/homelessness-tip-sheet.pdf