Hide Article Text (OCR)
Community service awards presentedCOMMMTY'HKMPAGC 3number of literacy programs for young people in the community,” she said. ‘‘In February, I host the African American Read-ln at Beauchamp Library, where SU students from the Literacy Corps program, along with other community volunteers, read African American children’s literature to young people and their families.”Her involvement doesn’t stop there. She also participates in Black History Month events at Beauchamp, including the screening of documentaries about education and the African American community and co-facilitates an ongoing program for mothers concerned with the educational experiences of their children.In addition, she hosts a ‘ ‘Writing Our Lives” writing conference for young people grades six to 12 each year in Syracuse.Haddix also was surprised when she learned about the award.“Most people involved in community work do not do it for the recognition, but what an honor. This award reminds me of how important this work is, and it let me know that the community does value my involvement. It was just another incentive for me to keep going,” she said. “The award means a great deal to me because it comes from the people in my community.”Award recipient Cheryl Wilkins-Mitchell, professional dance artist, choreographer and faculty member at the State University College at Oswego, adds a new twist to reading.She was recognized for her unique approach in literacy that links literature to dance. Her innovative programs like “OnDance” are held at Beauchamp Library and integrate reading with body movements.‘ ‘There is such a need to help the under-served population,” said the Syracuse native.There are lots of problemsProvided photoMARCELLE M. HADDIX sponsors a number of literacy programs for young people in the community.that are not addressed. My goal is to reach and teach our children discipline, creativity and other life skills through the art of dance.”Wilkins-Mitchell paired with local and nationally known poet Jackie Warren-Moore to present a poetry writing session geared toward teens and younger people at the library. The children wrote verses and Wilkins-Mitchell helped them develop movement to their poetry.She recalled one specific story that has made a lasting impression on her.“One boy, an adolescent, and his sister were disruptive at our programs. Then, over a period of time, things changed and 1 saw him working on his poem. It was about Michael Jackson. And we put the movements together. He was so excited,” Wilkins-Mitchell said.‘ ‘There was a freedom there — like he didn’t have to worry about other things. Kids have a creativity inside of them, and we can reach them. Sometimes the arts can reach them in a way that academics can’t,” she said.The three awardees shared one thing in common. They are all committed to an ongoing effort to improve the lives of people living in the city.Haddix summed it up when she said, “I want to support the literacy achievement of young people so that it then transfers into positive educational outcomes for youth in school, and by extension, in their futures.”
Newspaper Details
Syracuse Post Standard
Syracuse, New York, US
Thu, Dec 15, 2011
Page 56
Full Page
Clipped by
Sarah K.
NA, 05 Dec 2024
Other Publications Near Syracuse, New York
Syracuse Journal
Syracuse Evening Herald
Syracuse Herald Journal
Syracuse Daily Courier and Union
Syracuse Daily Courier
