For the past four years, our Kids on the Block team has been invited onto Ft. Campbell Post to present to their now six elementary schools. This all began with funding from the Nashville Predators Foundation when they funded our Coping With Crisis program and corresponding puppet, Salima. This program addresses the fears, concerns, hopes and struggles that face families dealing with the deployment of a loved one. The impact this presentation has had on the young children living on Post is humbling.
Here are two emails we receieved from teachers who participated in our presentation:
“Amazing! My students couldn’t take their eyes off of the characters. There were so into the show. Very kid friendly. Loved it!!!”
“I love any program that teaches our kids about how to discuss deployment and that what they are feeling is normal.”
Although we have not been able to secure the funding needed to return to Ft. Campbell, we go anyway. Reaching these brave military families, providing their children with the tools and skills they deserve to start talking about their feelings is of critical importance.
Deep gratitude is owed to these families. We are mindful of your sacrifices and humbled by your committment.
Thank you. From all of us at STARS and the families we reach. Thank you.
