IMPACT Learning Center

Meet Eric Schrad - ILC Site Coordinator

2008-02-17T13:50:00.006-06:00

By: Eric SchradMy name is Eric Schrad. I was raised in Ainsworth, Nebraska. I committed my life to Jesus Christ when I was nine years old, but I have been through many struggles like most of us have. I am currently going to school at Southeast Community College.Here at the Impact Learning Center, I am the Site Coordinator. I began working here in December of 2007 and I have really enjoyed it

It's About More Than Just Reading Books

2008-02-11T11:53:00.002-06:00

By: Ashley LarsonThere was something in the air on Wednesday at the ILC. It seemed like we were sending kids to reroute about every five minutes and all of us as staff were getting pretty tired after chasing a few of the more rebellious kids around the church! Even after open rec the trend continued and at one point I looked around and realized that only 6 of the 11 students were present (the

Fall in Love with Reading

2008-01-07T17:45:00.000-06:00

By Ashley LarsonIn September, when we started the Impact Learning Center back up, Savannah was behind in reading. This was obviously a daily frustration for her, and it was a challenge for me as her classroom leader to encourage her and get her excited about reading each day. I kept telling the kids that our classroom goal was to "fall in love with reading." Savannah was skeptical, to say the

The Impact Learning Center is Expanding

2007-12-11T12:57:00.000-06:00

By Jenna GerstenschlagerNot long after the students trickle into the Middle Cross Church, a line of volunteers enter the building. These people are the most vital parts of our program as they are the ones that essentially keeping it running and have made it the success it has become. During the course of a typical day there are two tutoring sessions that happen, each forty-five minutes long. Just

The ILC gets a visit from the queen!

2007-12-06T13:21:00.000-06:00

By Anna ZachWhat? The queen? Yes, that is Miss Pre-Teen Queen of Nebraska. This week our kids had a visit from Hannah Duncan- who is Miss Pre-Teen of Nebraska. The kids were so excited to meet her – and to see that crown. After an introduction everyone had the chance to ask her questions and the girls even got to try her crown on! They were really precious as they each had a special smile come

Making connections

2007-12-05T13:03:00.000-06:00

By Jami SpauldingLately, I've been really excited to hear the kids make connections between the ILC and Bible Club. It first started with them using the SOS method to change their own behavior. One day someone was acting crazy and another student said, "Hey, SOS, remember?" The kids then reminded the student what it meant and that chosing to do what is right is like chosing to act like Jesus. It

Meet Ashley Larson-Read room grades 4-5

2007-11-29T15:10:00.000-06:00

By Ashley LarsonMy name is Ashley Larson. Although I was born and raised in Lincoln, NE my eyes have been opened to a different side of our city over the past three years. Recently, I graduated from Nebraska Wesleyan University with a bachelors degree in social work. Throughout my life I have had the opportunity to be exposed to numerous urban communities through short-term missions with Jr. high

Becoming a Kingdom Kid

2007-11-26T15:02:00.000-06:00

By Bethany LarsonWhat does a Kingdom Kid look and sound like? This is the question that City Impact students have been exploring in their Bible Club classes. We have learned that Kingdom Kids say encouraging words to one another like “Please” and “Thank you” and they forgive one another. They also listen when someone else is talking, perform random acts of kindness for one another and participate

Meet Nathan Fries, Van Driver

2007-11-13T15:26:00.001-06:00

By Nathan FriesMy name is Nathan Fries. My hometown is Dannebrog, NE (a little town 25 minutes Northwest of Grand Island). I am a student at UNL and majoring in Mechanical Engineering and plan to graduate in December 2009. I accepted Christ in March of 2004and have been on a wonderful ride ever since. I am the Van Driver for the ILC and Bible Club on Tuesday Nights.

Meet Jennifer Harrington, Program Coordinator

2007-11-13T15:14:00.000-06:00

I was raised on a cattle ranch in Montana, where I lived until I left for college at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. I graduated from UNL in August 2007 with a degree in psychology and a minor in education. I plan to attend graduate school next fall to obtain a Ph.D in clinical psychology. I would like to work with children who have been abused and neglected.In my spare time I like reading,

Hopes & Dreams-A Place At The Table

2007-11-13T15:11:00.000-06:00

By Todd BowmanIn 2006, I was the featured speaker at City Impact’s annual Hopes & Dreams fundraising banquet. I spent over twenty minutes casting vision for the creation of a strengths-based after school program called the Impact Learning Center which we were hoping to unveil in early 2007. During my speech, I communicated a dream I had that City Impact students would be so engaged in their

The Lord has BIG plans for the kids at Bible Club

2007-11-07T15:36:00.000-06:00

By Anna ZachOver the past few months we have been planning and planning for the new Bible Club year. There has been this deep desire in me to help make Bible Club a really amazing place; a place where these kids know that we see how amazing they are, how much they are capable of, how talented they are, and how much potential is inside of them just waiting to be unleashed. I just know these kids

Bible Club starts up for the 2007-2008 year

2007-10-29T13:12:00.000-06:00

By Jami SpauldingThe first week of Bible Club was super exciting, but also a bit nerve wrecking too. Could 14 preschoolers really last in the auditorium for an hour? Would they understand the new routines in class? It turned out to be a great night indeed. The kids were so excited to be back. The LOVED the worship and talked and talked about singing and dancing for Jesus with the big kids. The

Kids' Enthusiasm Grows

2007-10-25T14:27:00.000-05:00

By Jennifer HarringtonAs the first session draws to a close I look back with fondness over the last nine weeks. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to interact with each student at the ILC. It was exciting to watch the kids bond with each other as well as with the teachers. I feel like I had the chance to get to know each student fairly well, and I enjoyed visiting with them about school,

Confidence and passion for learning

2007-10-23T11:13:00.000-05:00

by Bethany LarsonOn any normal day I am the Reroute Coordinator, but the past couple of weeks, I will be honest, I have not been working too hard during programming. Very few students have entered my room due to conflict. Believe me, I am not complaining! When I enter the Read rooms taught by Miss Jami and Miss Ashley, I begin to understand why the students would not want to leave. Both teachers

Reflections

2007-10-19T16:32:00.000-05:00

By Ashley LarsonAs we near the end of our first quarter of the Impact Learning Center it is quite obvious God has been working here. I have spent the last 8 weeks in the 4th and 5th grade classroom, and I’m excited to announce that almost all of my students have advanced at least one grade level in their reading packets! Even now as I write this blog I’m sitting in class watching the students

Experience in the R.E.A.L. room

2007-10-01T15:07:00.000-05:00

By Jenna Gerstenschlager I had the opportunity this past week to work in the R.E.A.L. room and experience first hand what being a tutor is all about. I had the opportunity to work with both Madison and Simone. My first tutoring session was with Madison. I had a few jitters to begin with, but as soon as we started there weren’t any problems and the lesson ran very smoothly. I was really impressed

Appreciative Inquiry

2007-09-27T14:39:00.000-05:00

By Anna ZachThis past spring was when I first heard the words “Appreciative Inquiry.” Intrigued and curious I began searching out what this concept was all about. As spring became summer and the ILC began to wind down and the summer programs were gearing up, we began to wonder about using this “Appreciative Inquiry” concept for the development of a summer project with our Teen Job Club. After a

God made me and loves me

2007-09-24T18:03:00.000-05:00

By Jami SpauldingDaddiz, Milandra, Madison, and Grace have fun dressing up and reading books.(Picture above) I was so encouraged this week to hear the younger kids talking with the older kids as they waited for their rides to come. Sometimes you wonder if they are really understanding the things we talk to them about, or even if it's making a difference in their world. I heard them saying

Seeing Progress

2007-09-21T14:51:00.000-05:00

By Jennifer Harrington I recently came on staff with City Impact as the ILC Program Coordinator. Although I have been with the ILC less than a month, I have already been so blessed by my short time here. Each day I can see God at work in the hearts of both the children who attend and the adults who are there to teach them. The smiles and laughter of the students remain in my mind long after

Working through it

2007-09-20T17:54:00.000-05:00

By Bethany Larson Working in the Reroute room may not always be the most popular job, but I have found it rewarding and encouraging in my own life. For a few days in the past week, I have dealt with a couple students who seem to have a reoccurring issue. When they get upset or flustered about something, they tend to get angry. Many times we talk through their anger and brainstorm ways that

We promise

2007-09-12T14:55:00.000-05:00

By Ashley LarsonEach afternoon I look around my classroom and I see eight intelligent looking 4th and 5th graders. Each are either snuggled into a comfy chair, spread out on our fuzzy rug, rocking gently on the cushy rockers, or sinking into a giant purple bean bag, completely consumed in their favorite book. Some like to read about great storms and exotic animals, while others laugh along with

R.E.A.L. life changes

2007-09-10T18:59:00.000-05:00

By Miriam HeiderMy prayer for the R.E.A.L. room has been that students would not only improve their reading scores, but develop a lifelong love for reading. I also pray that God would develop meaningful relationships between volunteers and students. Some of our students have only received 10 reading instruction sessions, and already I am seeing this happen. Volunteers come into the R.E.A.L. room

Teen Job Club Community Project at Hartley

2007-09-07T17:42:00.000-05:00

By Anna ZachIt is finished! With great joy the final touches were completed on Hartley Elementary’s playground, ending a summer long journey. Looking back to the first weeks of June when our process of creating a community project began, it really is amazing and wonderful to see possibilities become reality. It is encouraging to me as a facilitator of the process to know experientially that what

Making reading fun

2007-09-05T15:00:00.000-05:00

By Jami Spaulding Wow! What an amazing first couple of weeks it has been. The kids have adjusted really well to the new format at the Impact Learning Center. They seem to be beginning to see value in what we do in the read room as well as in tutoring and are enjoying getting to know the staff and volunteers. Milandra came back from tutoring the first day and taught us the sign language word

Program Changes

2007-09-05T14:38:00.000-05:00

By Todd Bowman-Program Director In February of 2006 the Impact Learning Center opened its doors for the first time. Overall the quality of the work, activities, and programs which happened there each day after school was outstanding. To give you a visual framework, the Impact Learning Center focused primarily on three areas:Literacy, Leadership, & Fun. There was, however, a fundamental

Check It Out!

2007-08-08T20:28:00.000-05:00

The following link is an article from the Journal Star about the Teen Job Club's community project at Hartley Elementary School. Through the this week rain, students have been beautifying their neighborhood. Check it out! http://journalstar.com/articles/2007/08/08/news/schools/doc46b8fb373cc34096560632.txtandhttp://journalstar.com/media/view/?mid=M46b8f35ae25c7

They've Gone Country!

2007-08-02T22:11:00.000-05:00

Waiting for a bite, Deontrey sits by the pond while fishing today at Camp Sonshine. This week has been a week of new experiences for many of the kids. First time fishing, first time riding in a wagon, first time roasting a banana over campfire! I even introduced Gigi to a John Deere. (Sh wasn't nearly as excited.) It has been fun to be there as they discover new things, ask questions and

Ready, Set...Jump!

2007-08-01T20:45:00.000-05:00

Camp Sonshine was the site of the Olympic frog races today. All week the students have scavenged the campsite of all the frogs that they could find and kept them in the frog tank. Today they were released in a jumping race (Only one frog did not survive the competition!) Today was another exciting day at Camp Sonshine! With faces painted, wearing their colors, campers participated in many

It's All Smiles at Camp Sonshine!

2007-07-31T21:31:00.000-05:00

Brothers Kerry and Deontrey pose with their counselor from Camp Sonshine. Over 30 City Impact kids are attending Camp Sonshine, a local outdoor Christian Camp all this week. The past two days have been jammed packed with fun activities such as swimming, water games, tractor rides, archery, crafts, campfires and much more!! Also many of us had our first banana boat. A what?? A banana boat is

R-E-D, Jesus Died for Me!

2007-07-25T18:28:00.000-05:00

by Bethany LarsonA field trip starting with water balloons has to be good! As soon as the students of the elementary program unloaded the vans at Holmes Lake Park the fun and games began. The warm temperatures made the kids eager to be targets for the water balloon launcher. The highlight of the day, though, was the Challenge Circle that Miss Ashley conducted. Ashley was an intern at an

Just Being Nice

2007-07-24T22:02:00.000-05:00

By Ondrea GoransonOne incident that brought great pride and joy to my heart occurred several days into the week at Southwood Luthern Camp. As I entered her classroom, I immediately noticed a girl from our program sulking in the corner. At a moment we had to ourselves, I asked her what was wrong. She pointed to a little blonde girl wearing a sparkly pink t-shirt and stylish Gap cap. "She don't

Update- Part I

2007-07-19T17:44:00.001-05:00

by Todd Bowman-Program Director Exactly three weeks ago today, while speaking at a banquet, I shared a story about two young men who had removed from City Impact’s summer Teen Job Club program as a result of poor behavior. However, I had a plan, and I encouraged those attending the banquet to check our blog in three weeks to see if my plan worked. Unfortunately, my plan has not worked – at

A Change in Tune

2007-07-18T23:12:00.000-05:00

by Bethany Larson This week the elementary summer program has not been in session because many of our kids are attending Southwood Lutheran’s Day Camp all week. They have been busy each day learning new songs, making fishing hats in arts and crafts, playing water games outside and so much more! Each day as I bring kids home, it is a quiet ride as one or two doze off from their fun-packed day.

Teens Enjoy Heartland Festival

2007-07-16T00:18:00.001-05:00

Hot temperatures, long van ride and the late night were all worth it last night as some the teens from job club ventured to Omaha for the Luis Palau Heartland Festival. Arriving to see artist Jeremy Camp, we were awed by the thousands of people that came out to the Qwest Center Sunday for the event. After finding a spot to sit down and cool off, Luis Palau preached

Hearts Soften on Prayer Walk

2007-07-13T09:45:00.000-05:00

by Miriam HeiderTuesday we took the Job Club girls on a prayer walk. To be honest, I was a bit skeptical about how they would react. My girls in my 6th grade Bible club are really uncomfortable praying out loud, and I assumed these girls would act the same way. However, I was greatly impressed by not only their willingness to pray, but their prayers as well. These girls are growing in their

Not I, But Christ

2007-07-11T00:04:00.000-05:00

“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20) As discussed in my previous post, an impacter is one loves sacrificially, is others focused, and is one who serves. The central question now is how can we as adults teach youth that we serve

Sacrificial Love Among Teens

2007-07-07T09:55:00.000-05:00

by Ercia Schmidt One of the boys in Job Club is really struggling. He’s having a hard time adjusting to the structure and he doesn’t like the discipline system. He doesn’t like doing things he doesn’t want to do, and he doesn’t like being told what to do. Because of a previous episode, he had to spend one whole day in Reroute (2 hours and 15 minutes of program). Knowing that he was going to have

CI Youth Wins Award at KAA Camp

2007-07-03T16:26:00.000-05:00

by Ashley Larson KAA camp was an incredible blessing for the youth and adults alike! My husband and I were in KAA 1 with the youngest group and we loved watching CI's youth interact with others their age from all across the nation. One of the most rewarding memories I bring home is watching Addison receive the "I'm third" (Jesus First, Others Second, I’m third) award. This award is only given to

Mentoring Program in the Works

2007-07-02T22:39:00.000-05:00

by James Pruch This summer I'm working on the development of the new mentoring program. As I have been making brochures, interest surveys, and looking for field trip ideas, I am getting more and more excited about this program. I see all of these things coming together and I know that a child's life will be changed when a mentor invests into his or her life. We will see youth's strengths being

Taking the Plunge

2007-06-27T23:50:00.001-05:00

by Bethany Larson The overcast clouds and cooler temperatures didn’t damper another field trip day. While the boys bowled strikes at Sun Valley Lanes, the girls dove into the pool. Some of the girls really enjoyed swimming and could swim well, while others were a little more timid. First grader Amara did not know how to swim, but that did not stop her eagerness to slip down the slide or jump

Picture This

2007-06-25T23:28:00.000-05:00

Showing off his Picasso side, fifth grader Askia decorates his picture frame. Students used various sponges, brushes and colors to paint a wooden picture frame in arts and crafts today. Some enjoyed mixing colors to create a unique look. While other students labeled theirs “KAA” to put pictures from Kids Across America Camp they attended last week. In lieu of the messy hands and tables, the

City Impact at KAA Camp

2007-06-22T18:55:00.000-05:00

by Andrea FrankThis is the week 29 City Impact kids and leaders are at Kids Across America (KAA) Camp in Missouri. The group left on the 17th and will return this Sunday, June 24th. From updates throughout the week, it sounds as though the kids are having a great time experiencing new things like tubing and water skiing as well as deepening their walk with God. Please continue to lift the

Day of Silly and Splashes

2007-06-20T22:38:00.000-05:00

As the temperatures crept up today, summer program students got a chance to cool down on their field trip. The boys were ecstatic to jump into the pool and were blessed with a nice hot day with no rain! The girls headed downtown to Paint Yourself Silly. Many artists emerged as the girls designed their flowerpots. Afterward we stopped at Ivanna Cone for some yummy ice cream.

Summer's Here!

2007-06-13T23:53:00.000-05:00

Put on your flip flops and sunglasses, summer is officially underway for City Impact programs. This was the first week for both Teen Job Club and the elementary Impact Learning Center. In the morning, Job Club meets Monday thru Thursday. Job Club consists of older students (Grades 6-7) who will learn characteristics of being a good employee, how to handle money, and how to use strengths to

Some More REAL Improvment!

2007-06-10T15:05:00.000-05:00

by Bethany Larson I had the opportunity to talk with a couple of ILC student’s parents/guardians at the family picnic City Impact hosted. “How is Mickela doing?” her grandmother asked. Mickela was a student that staff member, Miriam had tutored for a semester last year. Over the past year, Miriam has tracked Mickela’s improvement. “The first time I read with Mickela was over a year ago, when

ILC's Library Grows

2007-06-06T18:21:00.000-05:00

by Bethany Larson Having been at the ILC before, Arlin Yrastorza and her three children, Grace, Jamie and John were immediately recognized by the first and second graders. They had been guest readers earlier this year. But their visit on Tuesday was a special trip. When Arlin and her family first came to read at the ILC, they enjoyed reading to the kids. They also noticed that the ILC’s

A Child's Prayer

2007-06-04T23:38:00.000-05:00

by Jenna Gerstenschlager "Ok, who wants to pray this week?" says Miss Anna. It's team time in the 1st and 2nd grade room. Almost every child eagerly raises his or her hand. I remember back to when the program first started and no one raised his hand. It was always Anna or I who prayed. Now, everyone wants to make sure they each get a turn. Some of the kids act nervous when they are praying

"...Through Christ Who Gives Me Strength"

2007-06-03T16:38:00.000-05:00

by Bethany Larson I got the chance to sit in the R.E.A.L room last week while Miss Miriam was gone. I found myself sitting and listening to the hum of the students reading with their tutors, observing how both the students and the tutors engaged in the stories . All of them were diligently following along.As I eavesdropped on the tutor and student pair sitting closest

Make an Impact, Be Impacted

2007-05-31T10:10:00.000-05:00

by Ondrea Goranson The following is a touching journal written by Miss Ondrea, after she had been gone a couple of days to a trip to New York City. She captures the real, rewarding connection that many have experienced working with youth involved with City Impact. It is a relationship that goes beyond the classroom, and impacts not only the children, but the staff

What is an Impacter?

2007-05-29T09:01:00.000-05:00

by Todd BowmanProgram DirectorIf one of you says to him, “Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. (James 2:16-17)If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging

Opening Up

2007-05-23T21:33:00.000-05:00

It has been about five months since we opened ILC’s doors. We welcomed Lincoln youth varying in age, race, gender, home life, school, strengths etc. It has been exciting learning more about the students, who they are and what they like to do. Some students were very easy to get to know, and welcomed others to get to know them. Other students were reserved and shy

"People like me here."

2007-05-21T22:02:00.000-05:00

by Jenna Gerstenschlager Last week during team time when the group was writing Stamps, Keanu raised his hand. I went over to him and asked him who he wanted to write to today. I suggested he look through his stamps and write someone back that had already sent him a Stamp. He happily went through his pile of Stamps he had stashed at the back of his strengths journal. He looked them over and

Dramashop-Behind the Scenes

2007-05-19T14:07:00.001-05:00

by Ondrea GoransonIt's amazing how two cardboard boxes overflowing with hand-me-downs, last year’s fashions and other miscellaneous, rarely used items can turn a classroom into a magical stage. Dramashop was full of eager faces and even more eager hands as I introduced two boxes of costumes and props to the first and second graders. The assignment was simple: create a short skit by using the

Playing Teacher

2007-05-17T08:36:00.000-05:00

by Leslie Burchell While I usually spend most of my time with the middle school students at the ILC, over the last week or two there have been a couple days when they weren’t there for some or all of the afternoon. This has allowed me the opportunity to get to know many of the elementary school-aged students better. And they are an amazingly intelligent, funny and energetic group of kids. There

Free Books!

2007-05-15T08:50:00.000-05:00

Last Tuesday as the students from ILC were released, they raced over to the table. You would think they were giving out money or free food, for that matter. What was it? The sign on the table said, “FREE BOOKS.” The kids were ecstatic as they rummaged through the pile of books. From picture books to chapter books, all the kids were excited to find at least one that appealed to them. Most found

Questions, Questions and More Questions...

2007-05-12T14:47:00.000-05:00

by Bethany Larson “Where can you find the long centipedes?” “What kind of grasshoppers are in Nebraska?” “Does this one bite?” These are all questions that sixth grader TJ queried Miss Leslie about one day during Read Room time. Knowing of his interest in bugs and a desire for learning in general, Miss Leslie had found a bug identification book that TJ was engulfed in that day.One of TJ’s

Tutor Connects with Student

2007-05-09T08:11:00.000-05:00

by Miriam Heider It has been a little over a month that we have had consistent volunteer tutors in the R.E.A.L. Room. It was pretty exciting for me to see volunteers matched up with students every week. Now that the excitement has worn off, and the mystery of the R.E.A.L. Room has been revealed to all the students, we are beginning to see some real learning happening. There are still some kinks

Catching Others Using Strengths

2007-05-07T12:54:00.001-05:00

by Bethany Larson Trust is important to you, and you care about being seen as responsible and trustworthy. People count on you to do what you say you will do. This is part of the description of Dependability, one of the ten strengths from Gallup’s StrengthExplorer. Over the past few weeks, the students have been learning what their top three strengths are by taking the StrengthsExplorer test.

Chaos Uncovering Secrets

2007-05-02T10:57:00.000-05:00

by Anna Zach If the average person had moseyed into the Relax Room on this seemingly normal day in April, I would expect to have seen expressions of perhaps cringing maybe even disdain on their faces. Why you ask? It may have been the mess of paper on the floor – an aftermath of a handful of students using construction paper to fashion mustaches, beards, teeth and uni-brows to tape to their

In Their World

2007-04-30T13:46:00.001-05:00

by Todd BowmanProgram Director “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” And He said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and foremost commandment. The second is like it, you shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend the whole Laws and the Prophets.” (Matthew

One-on-One Lesson

2007-04-26T09:38:00.000-05:00

by Bethany Larson A few days ago, I was startled by pounding in one of the activity rooms where the elementary school students can be found during relax time. I walked in to find our very own Miss Anna and a couple of students pounding on a toy drum. Even in the midst of pandemonium, one specific student’s interest in drumming was obvious. Pounding away, third grader Quincy was focused and

To Make A Positive And Powerful Difference

2007-04-23T19:47:00.000-05:00

by Todd BowmanProgram Director I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death. (Philippians 3:10) Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity. (1 Timothy 4:12) This week, I reflect on the third

Strengths Exposed

2007-04-18T14:05:00.000-05:00

by Anna ZachA month ago there was a big buzz in the Read Room, Miss Anna was going to have a baby. The children were so excited and eager to share their own experiences with new babies. One little girl even told me, “Miss Anna, my mom had a baby and let me tell you, it was not pretty.”A week or so later the Lord decided to take that little baby home. I was gone for a week and when I returned

Using Their God-Given Strengths

2007-04-16T10:57:00.000-05:00

Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6)This week, I reflect on the second portion of the Impact Learning Center’s vision statement – using their God-given strengths. Young people USING THEIR GOD-GIVEN STRENGTHS to make a positive and powerful difference in their world.Max

A Sibling Bond

2007-04-11T09:45:00.000-05:00

by Ondrea Goranson“Ok everybody—yo!” I thrust my fist in the air and Team Prints, the third through fifth grade students, followed suite. As soon as the children settled in their seats, I posed a question. “I would like you to raise your hand if you have the strength of ‘Relating’.” Savannah and Quincy, sister and brother, each shot their hands in the air with enthusiasm. I couldn’t help but

Young People

2007-04-09T10:49:00.000-05:00

by Todd BowmanILC Director Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity. (1 Timothy 4:12) This week, I reflect on the first portion of the Impact Learning Center’s vision statement – young people. YOUNG PEOPLE using their God-given strengths to make a positive and powerful

Lt. Governor Helps Reveal Grant

2007-04-05T12:59:00.001-05:00

by Bethany Larson This morning a press conference at Central Church was held to reveal and inform the public of the $1,703,598 grant awarded to City Impact of Lincoln and Hope Center for Kids of Omaha. The grant, from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation out of Battle Creek, Michigan, will fund strength-based programs and developments of these two programs to empower urban youth and families for three

Please Share!

2007-04-04T21:32:00.000-05:00

Got something to share? Don’t keep it a secret. If you have a comment, question or inspiring story of your own relating to the Impact Learning Center, we want it here on the blog. It was brought to my attention that everybody looking at the blog may not be aware that they comment on the posts. If you wish to make an appropriate comment, than you can click on the envelope symbol below the

Youth Impacters

2007-04-02T14:38:00.000-05:00

by Todd BowmanILC DirectorYouth VisionYouth EmpowermentYouth Engagement Youth MobilizationYouth LeadershipYouth Change AgentsYouth Community Builders Youth Impacters All of these statements are different ways of communicating the vision of the Impact Learning Center:Young people using their God-given strengths to make a positive and powerful difference in their

Kudos!

2007-03-29T07:53:00.000-06:00

“What’s a Kudos?” one student asked as they pulled a “Kudos” card out of their mailbox. As I had mentioned in a previous post about strengths, the Impact Learning Center is using Gallup’s StrengthsExplorer for the students. Each student is given their top three strengths. To learn more about StrengthsExplorer visit the website at www.strengthsexplorer.com. Once anyone learns what they are

Maxey PTO Donates Books

2007-03-26T22:12:00.000-06:00

by Bethany Larson Recently Maxey Elementary School’s PTO has donated over 200 books to the Impact Learning Center. Maxey Elementary organizes a book exchange for its students, where students bring in old books and all books are combined. Then students are allowed to take the maximum of five new books home. Over 2800 books were brought in by students, so many books were left over. Maxey PTO then

Open Doors

2007-03-22T22:55:00.000-06:00

by Anna Zach My continual prayer is that the Lord would give me opportunities to really engage in these children’s lives for His glory and the furtherance of His kingdom and that He would grant open doors. That day I read Psalm 23 illustrated by Tim Ladwig to my 3rd – 5th graders. I really had such a good time with them digging through this modern interpretation of a profound Psalm. As I read to

R.E.A.L Improvement!

2007-03-20T12:41:00.000-06:00

by Miriam HeiderAs I stated in a previous post, our curriculum for the R.E.A.L. room has been about one year in the making. Bethany and I, with the guidance of Todd, tried out several different reading plans on some students for the past two semesters. Through trial and error and lots of discussion, we found that the Carbo reading method was the most user friendly while also producing the

Use What You Got

2007-03-19T12:04:00.000-06:00

by Bethany LarsonOne of the Impact Learning Center’s goal is to create opportunities for youth to discover and explore their God-given identity and strengths. In cooperation with Gallup, we are using their Clifton Youth StrengthsExplorer test for the students to discover their talents.The students have gotten the chance to take a questionnaire online that evaluates

Just for Fun!

2007-03-15T08:17:00.000-06:00

Creating some laughs, seventh grader TJ poses with a toy “blob” on his head during hang-out time before program starts. Normally quiet TJ uses his strength of Presence to make those around him laugh. Wishing all the students and staff a safe and relaxing spring break! We will return on Monday.

Who doesn't want to be cool?

2007-03-08T14:31:00.001-06:00

by Bethany LarsonDuring team time this week in the Splats room (grades 6-8), students got a chance to read the stamps that had been sent to them in the past week. Each student smiled as they read their notes from their friends, staff members and other students in the ILC. “How did you feel reading your Stamps?” I asked the students. “Good. I liked reading my Stamps, but I liked writing them

Rec Room Reality

2007-03-06T08:43:00.000-06:00

by Sarah Miller A great deal of fun has been had in the rec room in the last couple of weeks. Each group began with a game designed for us to get to know a little bit about each other. We threw a ball around a circle and answered a series of questions that the kids formed. Even though many of these kids know each other quite well from Bible Club, there were still some answers that the group found

When TJ Smiled

2007-03-02T16:32:00.000-06:00

by Ondrea Goranson“When you stand or act in front of a crowd, it’s normal to get butterflies.” I told the students, when indeed I had a few winged creatures fluttering in my stomach at the moment. I was particularly nervous about TJ, a 7th grade student who had never been to Dramashop. Earlier that afternoon, during a very serious game of SORRY!®, I asked TJ if he was excited for Dramashop. His

Get R.E.A.L!

2007-02-28T14:09:00.000-06:00

by Miriam Heider What does R.E.A.L. stand for? R. is read, E. is educate, A. is and, finally L. is listen. This represents what will happen in the R.E.A.L. room everyday. We will provide one-on-one reading instruction for all of our students that are in need of it. This instruction will be taught primarily from volunteers. Our method of instruction is the Carbo reading method. To find out

2007-02-26T23:10:00.000-06:00

As I have been getting to know the students at the ILC, God has continually been giving me insight into what it means to love people, in this case, young people. Working with inner city kids is a blessing and God has been revealing themes to me, in order to better relate to kids. Being a man, it is important to work here. A lot of these youths do not have fathers and being able to talk with

You've Been Stamped!

2007-02-23T10:41:00.000-06:00

“You’ve got mail,” is one of today’s most pleasant phrase. Whether sent through “snail mail” or via email, those cards or notes we receive, especially from those we admire, can make your day. This week ILC students were introduced to the Impact Learning Center’s own post office. Each student was designated their own mailbox. Reach into the mailbox and you will find a “You’ve Been Stamped”

Do You Know How To R.A.P.S?

2007-02-21T14:25:00.000-06:00

Rules are designed to help guide and assist us to be a part of a constructive environment. Rules are implemented to ensure safety, to evoke good behavior and to teach life skills. The ILC program follows basic rules that are stated through R.A.P.S. The sign above is placed in many of the ILC classrooms as reminders to the students on how they should behave. R-Respect involves how you treat

Art Shop: Get In Touch With Your Creative Side

2007-02-19T21:24:00.000-06:00

by Jenna GerstenschlagerWhen I was hired I was told to plan a workshop. The only guideline I had was for it to be in the realm of strategic games, visual arts, or science. I decided to start with something familiar to me. For the first nine weeks in the Impact Learning Center, my workshop will focus on visual arts. My goal is for the kids to have a positive, hands-on experience with art. For our

What is your Read Room Schema?

2007-02-16T14:54:00.000-06:00

by Leslie Burchell and Anna Zach, Read Room Coordinators What is your schema about the IMPACT Learning Center Read Rooms? Confused by the question? Not quite sure what ‘schema’ means? Ask any of our first- through eighth-graders and they will tell you: schema is what you already know about something. It’s all the background knowledge you have from experiences, books, teachers, conversations,

How Long Does It Take To Finish a Puzzle With No Sides?

2007-02-15T08:27:00.000-06:00

Two sixth grade girls didn’t waste any time to challenge themselves the first day that they were at the Impact Learning Center. Mercedes and Lea, along with some other staff members, tackled a 500 piece jigsaw puzzle. That wasn’t the tricky part. On top of having 500 pieces, it had no sides! Each day after-school, the girls spent their forty-five minutes of free-time, before the elementary

Drama Kings and Queens

2007-02-13T21:59:00.000-06:00

by Ondrea Goranson “What is Drama?” That was the question I posed to my first through third grade students on our very first day of Dramashop. Immediately several hands flew up and I called on Amara, a bright eyed first grader bouncing with excitement. “It’s when someone’s just being bossy!” she exclaimed. I saw eight tiny heads nod in agreement. I inquired further. “Or when they always

Meet Mr. Wale

2007-02-11T16:21:00.000-06:00

My name is Adewale Olubodun (try pronouncing that!). I am originally from Nigeria, but was born in Atlanta, GA. I became born again when I was about 13 years old, even though I didn’t really make Jesus the lord of my life until about 2 years ago (How’s that for procrastination?). I am proud to say I have not looked back since then. I am a senior in Electrical Engineering here at UNL, and hope

Where We Call Home

2007-02-08T14:09:00.000-06:00

The Impact Learning Center is currently held at Central Alliance Church in Lincoln. This has been the home of Bible Club for ten years. Bible Club is a ministry of City Impact that serves and ministers to over 120 kids ranging from preschool to high school. Learn more about Bible Club by visiting City Impact’s website, www.cityimpact.org. Central Alliance Church is a central location to

Meet Miss Miriam

2007-02-07T10:50:00.000-06:00

My name is Miriam Heider. I was born in Chicago, IL and moved to Aurora, NE when I was 7. I have 2 brothers and 2 sisters and we were all proudly raised by my single mother. I remember coming to the Lord in my first grade class in Chicago, but my faith didn’t mature until high school. I went on a missions trip with my youth group to Urban Impact Ministries in New Orleans. It was there that

Putting the Pieces Together

2007-02-06T08:16:00.000-06:00

With much anticipation and preparation, the Impact Learning Center (ILC) opened its doors for the first time. Students ranging from grades 1-8 were picked up from school and transported to Central Alliance Church, where the Impact Learning Center staff awaited there arrival. As students arrived, they got acquainted with the building and with the staff. Since the middle

Meet Mr. James

2007-02-05T13:29:00.000-06:00

My name is James Pruch. I grew up in the Omaha, Nebraska, with my parents and younger sister and brother. I grew up in a Christian home and I accepted Christ around the age of seven. Still, this faith in Christ was more of a habit than a personal relationship as I got into junior high and high school. After my sophomore year in college, I finally began to realize that spiritual things

Meet Miss Sarah

2007-02-03T13:28:00.000-06:00

My name is Sarah Miller. I grew up in Hickman, Nebraska, and graduated from Norris High School. From there, I went on to attended the University of Nebraska in Lincoln where I graduated with a degree in secondary math education. During my time at UNL, I was involved in Christian Student Fellowship, one of the campus ministry groups there. I grew so much during those years through activities

Meet Miss Anna

2007-02-02T15:22:00.000-06:00

My name is Anna Zach. I am a native of Long Beach, California, although I grew up and have lived in a variety of locations since. After graduating from UCLA with a Bachelor’s degree in biogeography I substitute taught in the Los Angeles Unified School District and eventually settled into my own 4th grade class at Culver City Christian School. I was transplanted to Lincoln in 2003 when I

Meet Miss Leslie

2007-02-01T13:24:00.000-06:00

I grew up in Kearney, NE and moved to Lincoln in 2001 to attend UNL. I studied horticulture and graduated in May of 2006 with my Bachelor’s. I began working for City Impact in January of 2007 and I am getting married in April. I have four younger siblings who all still live in Kearney.I love spending time with my brothers and sisters, my friends and my fiancé Travis. I am interested in

Meet Miss Ondrea

2007-01-31T16:08:00.000-06:00

My name is Ondrea Goranson and I'm a Junior at the University of NE. I'm extremely excited about working with the Impact Learning Center in its inaugural semester. As a Workshop Coordinator, I'll be using theater and drama as a technique to further my student’s education. I intend to utilize such tools as drama games and reader's theater to inspire the imagination of my students. I've titled

Meet Miss Jenna

2007-01-30T12:54:00.000-06:00

My name is Jenna Gerstenschlager. I grew up in the small town of Palmyra, Nebraska with my mother, younger brother, and older sister. I was saved in the summer of 2001 and it was at that time it was as if the veil over my eyes was lifted and I finally understood the truth of the bible. At that point of time I decided to accept Christ as my savior. I graduated from

Welcome!

2007-01-29T13:39:00.000-06:00

Welcome to Impact Learning Center’s official blog! In this technology day of age, we wanted to find the best possible ways for us to communicate what will be going on daily basis in the Impact Learning Center. As student’s lives are changed to make an impact, we want to capture those moments in stories and pictures to relay on to all of you. Whether you are a volunteer of City Impact,

No More Pencil Bags!

2007-01-24T15:55:00.000-06:00

Remember the excitement of getting school supplies? Finding the best supplies was crucial, like a hot pink pencil bag! Sadly enough there will be no pencil bags at the Impact Learning Center. Through experimenting with them this summer in City Impact’s Summer Program, we found that is was mandatory for every child to dump their entire bag’s supplies all over the floor. Marker’s lost lids and

Got Direction?

2007-01-23T08:22:00.000-06:00

The day is approaching when the Impact Learning Center will open its doors for the first time. Many staff and supporters of City Impact are anxiously waiting for that date. But there is a specific group of people that will be glad to know that every student got picked up from school, received snack, and was exposed to the truth that each one of them has the