Grassroots celebrated its 5th year anniversary on May 21, 2014 at George Washington University’s Charles Smith Center.
There was a graduation held for over 100 students from the SEED school during this celebration. Food, games, activities and more were held at this event. The students wrote on colored papers depending on what the paper said; for example, “My favorite game was…” and hung them on the walls next to pictures that were taken throughout the year. Then, we had the students sign the “Contract” for participating in the program. The kids were able to eat pizza and play games such as Peer Pressure Limbo, HIV attacks, Cat and Mouse and some others that they found to be exciting to play.
After the graduation, TGP staff and donors were able to sit down and interact with one another and hear some feedback about the organization. A big thanks to TGP staff, teachers, Donors and the students that helped make this celebration a memorable one. The students were given certificates and much more for their participation.
Howard athlete and TGP coach Jaymie Cox stated, “ It was an amazing experience to facilitate the games and activities to the kids. They were so much fun and filled with lots of energy. As a 2nd year member of Grassroots as a coach, it is a great feeling to see the organization increase and become more and more known.”During the graduation, one of the female students sang the old r&b song “Candy Rain” by Soul For Real while Howard athlete and new Grassroot Coordinator Darieal Wimbley beat boxed. It was so outstanding and wonderful to because the other students were singing along and having a great time.
Grassroots has increased in the amount of athletes and schools since its’ first opening in 2009. Each semester, there are more and more Division I athletes wanting to help and volunteer and make a difference in a child’s life. It is an amazing feeling to be able to inform others about the organization, while also making it fun by playing games and shouting kids out for their partake in the activities.
The 5th year celebration was a success and there was an amazing turn out. Positive energy and a heart-warming feeling of how much dedication everyone has put into this organization. We are excited for many more wonderful moments like this in the future!
