As part of our constant search for alternatives to provide well-being to our children, we held a crafts workshop with therapeutic purpose. Through an activity called “the hugging kitten” the children created rag dolls to their liking, using their personal designs and favorite colors; Then, they wrote a story to relate themselves and their rag friends and reflect on their fears and challenges in life. The kittens symbolize those people such as friends, teachers, and family whom they can trust and seek comfort whenever they need it.
Throughout 2023 we organized many different activities to promote values of tolerance, respect and coexistence among boys and girls served by Poder Joven. One of these strategies was having the kids participate in friendly soccer tournaments, where beyond good sporting performance, they had to stand out for good treatment and fair play.
In the month of November, teenagers served by Poder Joven participated in intensive theater and art workshops. They learned to use stilts, juggle, and perform stage performances. In addition, they participated in a talent show for young people that the municipality of Medellin offered, in which our kids stood out for their enthusiasm and motivation. This activity was an effective strategy that promoted self-confidence and served as proof that with focused determination the children can achieve any goal they set for themselves.
¡With the support of Poder Joven, the lives of these children are changing radically for the better. They are happier, and they will surely become people with strong foundational values!
During the month of May we held a workshop for teenagers called “Visualizing our future.” The objective of this activity was to help the children understand the importance of setting relevant goals in life, and then create a plan of specific actions/decisions they must carry out daily towards that goal. Furthermore, we invited the kids to become aware of unhelpful habits that could divert them from their plans.
In our efforts to offer meaningful activities to the children, we created an alliance with one of the main public libraries in the city of Medellín. Through it, children learn science in many fun ways. Children get access to computers, watch documentaries, play games that stimulate their creativity and intelligence. Through activities like this, we make sure that Poder Joven is more attractive to the children than the “the street activities” which they are exposed to such as begging, crime, sexual exploitation, and drug consumption.