AmeriCorps has given me many opportunities to serve communities in need. Throughout my service, I have learned be more patient, understanding, and creative.
Coach Mariah
Playworks AmeriCorps Coach, Lakewood Elementary
Meet our AmeriCorps coaches! Coach Michael, Coach Amaya, and Coach Mariah share with us the importance of service and what they have learned thus far.
Coach Kate
AmeriCorps stands for a world where everyone gets opportunities, and that they matter and are deserving of receiving. My vision for the world is aligned perfectly, and it’s humbling to be a part of that mission. It’s also elevating to surround myself with a team of people who are all working towards the same goal and vision.
My favorite memory of service this year was a pretty powerful one for me. I was speaking to my third-grade students as they lined up at the end of recess, and it wasn’t the most fun talk. They had been using negative language towards each other during recess, so I spoke firmly and passionately about the power of positive language. As they all started to walk inside, one of the students went up to me. She said, “Coach Kate, I want to be you when I grow up.” It reminded me why I’m doing what I’m doing, and the true impact we are making here.
Coach Amaya
I joined Playworks because I wanted to make a difference in a child’s life and this position will allow me to grow as a public health educator. One of my past mentors served with AmeriCorps and inspired me to continue my passion for service alongside them after graduation in May of 2017. Since the start of my service, I have met over 500 wonderful students. My fondest memories are those involving my Junior Coaches. I have watched them become the leaders that they never knew they could be. They have been pushed outside their comfort zone and have done the same for me.
Coach Mariah
AmeriCorps has given me many opportunities to serve communities in need. Through my direct service, I have worked closely with many young children in building social interaction skills that will be beneficial to them throughout their lives. I have learned to be more patient, understanding, and creative in order to meet their needs. It is truly rewarding to see their growth!
Interested in becoming a Playworks AmeriCorps member?
