Endings & Beginnings

We've had quite a mix of fond farewells and exciting new beginnings lately. Last Wednesday, our 2008-09 AmeriCorps team graduated with a creative and fun send-off. How does the Children's Museum celebrate 16 incredible individuals who have collectively contributed more than 20,100 hours of service? With festive food and decor, collages and costumes, skits and songs, of course!
We're really going to miss this thoughtful, playful team, who brightened the Museum's exhibits, programs (and our offices!) with their laughter, creativity, and enthusiasm. Through their work with Greater Providence Head Start, Pawtucket Child Opportunity Zone, inner-city community centers and Museum visitors they've truly made a difference in the lives of thousands of children, families and educators over the last year.Thank you Camille, Kate, Katie, Kelly, Liz, Melissa, Miranda, Molly, Paul and Whitney
and to our part-time members Cat, Dan, Jennifer, Katherine, Nicole and Zuleyma.

But just because they've graduated doesn't mean their good work won't carry on! We usually have a month gap between AmeriCorps teams, but thanks to funding from the Economic Recovery Act, we’ve already begun working with one of the TWO new teams who will join us this year. A few weeks ago, 12 MuseumCorps Outreach Educators arrived to help us expand our reach to after-school and summer programs in greater Providence. We are thrilled to welcome Andrew, Eric, Erin, Ian, Jamie, Katie, Kellyn, Kevin, Meagan, Sarah, Shannon and Yetunde and look forward to a remarkable, playful year.
Our other new team begins in a month – stay tuned!