It says in the Talmud "Every blade of grass has its own angel that bends over it and whispers 'Grow, grow'."
I am a veteran art teacher beginning my second year at a new school in Brownsville, Brooklyn.
We are one of New York's poorest neighborhoods, and my students face neighborhood violence that affects many of them directly. As I get to know my scholars, I am learning that many of them face challenges in their lives that I, as an adult, would not be able to navigate. For them, school is a safe haven and we work hard to provide them with the tools and inspiration that they need to be productively engaged and inspired to work towards their goals.
My Project
Children raised in tough economic conditions often have difficulty visualizing and pursuing the steps necessary to accomplish their goals. I have a lot of girls who are consumed by fashion, watching reality television, and obsessing over certain styles and designers. They would like to have a career in fashion, however, they are not aware of what they can do now to pursue this dream. I would like to offer a sewing and DYI (do it yourself) club. We will focus primarily on sewing but will also make soap, lip balm, and other DYI projects for the home. This summer I searched thrift stores and yard sales to find inexpensive sewing machines for my scholars. I bought three and two were donated through Donors Choose. I am now asking for materials we will need to maintain the club. My students need sewing patterns, needles and sewing tools, and soap and lip balm making materials.
By offering a sewing club, I will be able to share one of my passions with my scholars.
Items such as patterns, seam rippers and sewing needles are not offered in school catalogs and are beyond the reach of my budget. Please consider funding our club and turning my scholars' dreams into reality.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Ms. Dorn and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.