Knox Youth Centre

Though I haven't been commenting for the last couple of days about my "literacy project," I haven't stopped thinking about it. I have actually been trying to network with those I know and then contact those I don't know, but who are presently working in complimentary fields or projects. My excitement builds!

I spoke with the Executive director of the United Way today about the project. She is an amazing person with whom I have worked "complimentarily" when she was still involved in the Calgary Board of Education. She is still very active in public education, but in a very different context. She was not only excited about the project, but will put me in touch with the various agencies whose work I would be supporting through this action. I can become part of the conversations that result in service provision. I thank her so much for her support.

I also had lunch today with a good friend who works with the Calgary Board of Education. He works closely with the board of Trustees as well as the Chief Superintendent. He made some very useful and practical suggestions and still provided lots of encouragement. He's the one who suggested the name "Knox Youth Centre." It makes sense to me. He also knows my strengths as well as my challenges. He knows that someone has to get me out of the big picture and into the details or this will never happen. He helped me see which details needed most attention and how I still need to focus on my nemesis: quantitative research data. His wisdom is so appreciated.

So I am developing a proposal to present - on paper - to the stakeholders, the potential sponsors, my employers, and other interested parties. This step must not be forgotten. Otherwise the space will not be available.

So I am off to do the nitty gritty.

Getting Started

This is really fascinating! I have been trying to get myself in contact with agencies or people who might be able to assist in beginning the project here at the church. Everyone I talk to at the church gets really excited by the idea. I think we'll easily have the necessary hardware to start. There seems to be no opposition to the idea of homeless youths coming to this facility. I haven't had anyone particularly try dissuade me. I can say that the worse reaction - which I do not think is anything but realistic - came in the form of advising me to consider, first, a pilot project with a few kids before expanding very far. This makes a lot of sense to me.

Where I have had difficulty is getting people to return my calls. When I get someone on the phone, I have no trouble getting them excited. However, it has been difficult to get people on the phone.

I will persevere! Anyone have any suggestions?