“Zip codes shouldn’t limit learning.”
In the Chicago area there are many students who don’t have extracurricular opportunities simply because of where they live and go to school. Supplies For Dreams, which currently operates out of Northwestern, Loyola and the University of Chicago, is here to help change that. From field trips to mentoring sessions, the volunteers with SFD work hard to build a community with local students.
Kelsey McCracken, a senior education major, leads Loyola’s chapter and 20 members as the Award a Field Trip Director. Two years ago Northwestern reached out to the Toledo native in getting an LUC chapter off the ground and they haven’t looked back since. Between organizing field trips and planning member events, Kelsey has been expanding horizons for the students of Chicago both in the classroom and throughout the city.
What has been the most rewarding part about being in SFD? Do you have a favorite event your chapter has done?
I think the most rewarding part about being the Award a Field Trip Director (AAFT) has been watching how much the kids enjoy the trips I plan after all the hard work that goes into it. Last year I took a group of students to the Museum of Science and Industry and it was amazing to walk through the museum with the chaperones and kiddos and experience it with everyone.
Your next event is this Saturday (Nov. 16). Can you explain a little bit about what it will be?
I am going to be taking a group of fourth graders to the Planetarium. Four other members of the AAFT committee and I will walk kids through the museum and get the chance to see one of the shows and do some educational activities with the kids. I’ve done this trip once before and I’m hoping it will be as successful as it was last year!
If you want to volunteer with SFD at Loyola, email lucsuppliesfordreams@gmail.com for more information.