Difference Makers is a local opportunity for students 3rd through 12th grade in the Albion area. Students receive support in developmental skills outside of the classroom including character and leadership building.
Difference Makers offers afterschool and summer programming with a mission to impact students’ educational success by “empowering future leaders with the tools necessary to become engaged members of our community”. The organization is rooted in the 3Rs, respect, responsibility, and resilience. Program Director, Nora Jackson explained that Difference Makers’ goal is to “meet the children where they are” and help them grow from there.
During the summer, children have the opportunity to learn and expand in their three main fields; character, math, and reading, each taught by a different leader. Keena Williams, a teacher focusing on relationship building, implements trust play and hands on learning through activities such as marshmallow towers and blind obstacle courses.
The students have great things to say about the program too. When discussing what they enjoy most about Difference Makers, it was hard for the students to choose. Some emphasized their love for the different hands-on activities showing how important it is for students to learn through play, while others enjoy the opportunity to learn alongside their friends. A large part of a child’s development is the ability to work well with others and gain exposure to communication skills. The students also emphasized for much the teachers support them. They noticed and appreciated the extra mile each teacher takes to make sure that everyone is receiving the support they need. Beyond educational activities, Difference Makers’ students gain the opportunity to learn outside of the Albion community with field trips like zoos and baseball games, practicing the idea of learning everywhere.
Difference Makers is in their 6th year of programing with support from the community and Albion College. Difference Makers has had the opportunity to be on Albion College campus in Olin Hall, exposing students to a future that is becoming more accessible to them every day. Community connections is an important facet to Difference Makers to interconnect programming and entities including INNOVATE Albion and Whitehouse Nature Center.
Difference Makers Summer Program runs through August 2nd, Monday through Thursday 9AM – 2:30PM at Olin Hall on Albion College’s campus. Registration is required. Contact Mrs. Jackson at d.m.2019differencemakers@gmail.com to learn more.