Epic Huggles

Dec. 3 Reflection

This past semester was a great experience, and the hands-on, interactive activities were a great learning tool as well.  I feel that our blog group really came together throughout the semester, which made for interesting group discussions.  Community Involvement created the opportunity for a wide variety of learning techniques that can be used in a variety of job outlets.  This class was a great introduction to the real world and how to work with others.  It also introduced me to how my peers are very involved within the Virginia Tech and Blacksburg communities and made me look at myself in a new way and how I can become more involved. 

I really enjoyed our final group presentations.  It introduced me to a lot of different local organizations, and the variety of opportunities that are to become involved.  I think everyone did a great job and seemed to be very involved and knowledgeable about their topic.  I also enjoyed having the YMCA directors come in and give a real-life talk about grant writing; the logistics, detail, and creativity that goes into grant writing was more in-depth than I thought.  Community Involvement was great exposure to many different learning networks and outlets;, that I know I will be able to apply in the real world.

December 3 Reflection

The most recent class was the perfect way to us to bring together all the ideas, principles and techniques taught throughout this semester and apply them for a very real world purpose: receiving a grant.  I truly enjoyed learning about our specific community organization, the YMCA at Virginia Tech, and gaining a deeper understanding of not only who they are and what they do, but how they operate and why.  The YMCA applies for grants on a fairly regular basis for the various programs and goals they have, so doing the same for our final presentation made me feel like we were almost contributing in some way, shape or form to the YMCA.  I also thought it was great to have actual staff from the YMCA, who we interviewed multiple times, to come see our presentation; it only furthers what this class has studied - community involvement.

The highlights of this class are the guest lectures, particularly the gentlemen from Virginia Tech News and Information, Mark Owczarski, the field trip to Shadowlake Village and the interesting and thought-provoking in-class blog group discussions.  I have had many people ask me about this class and what we actually studied, and although I think it is hard to accurately summarize is a just a few sentences, I believe I have gained a considerable amount of useful knowledge that I can use not only in my professional career, but in my everyday life.

Final Reflection

Wow can't believe this semester is soon to b over. Last class seemed to be a perfect wrap up for the entire class this semester. For our presentations we had to draw upon abilities we have gained throughout the semester in order to prove that organization was making a difference in the world. I was a little bummed that I didn't get a single vote, but then again I would have voted for someone else as well. I really enjoyed the fact that the structure of this class really didn't follow the traditional lecture-notes-PowerPoint format and that we were allowed to openly discuss and debate the topics for the week. This will definitely help us down the road in many of our careers, and will we'll probably be all-around better leaders and agents of change for it. I just want to wish everyone in Epic Huggles good luck on exams and look forward to seeing a few of you in class next semester.

PS...Still not sold on Co-Housing

Alex

12/3 Final Reflection Post

I’ll have to admit, after attending this class for the first day back in August, I was ready to drop the class, but after thinking long and hard I decided to stick with the class and now I’m actually glad I took the course.  This class actually help improve my people skills more than any other class I’ve ever taken, plus learning how to write effective memo’s and power points is just another key for success.  Those three elements alone will take anyone far in their career.  Also, the tools for public engagement in our communities or in our future jobs will give us an edge for getting tasks done effectively.  I really believe that these aspects will help me out a lot in my future career and I feel prepared for what lies ahead.  I really enjoyed my blog group and the discussions we had throughout the class on the different topics and I wish everybody the best of luck on conquering their future goals in life.

Reflection 12.3

Last class we were board members of the hokie bucks foundation and evaluated groups as they presented project ideas as if they were applying for a grant. Each group did a great job with their presentation. I found this to be another very beneficial exercise along with many of the other activities we've done though out the semester. It was great to get "real" practice before we enter the real world. It's refreshing to know that all of you are so passionate about great things and I really hope, despite all the challenges we know lie ahead, that nobody will forget why they do what they do. I learned a lot in this class and I enjoyed getting to know a little about all of you through your blogs and though our discussions in class. Best of luck!!

Reflection for 11/19

I guess the major thing I learned this class period was to not invest all of my energy into one project just in case it does go wrong. As I'm sure I've mentioned in class and in my group reports, I've run into a little letdown with the organization (Leadership Tech) I was involved with this semester. The year began with promise and with what seemed a solid direction for the program, however the organization currently is fading fast down the stretch. Students and mentors alike continued to drop off the roster and on;y a few more dedicated students remained. I joined this program in order to be able to share some my experiences as a leader in the field of environmental sustainability. I was under the impression that others in group were seeking the same goal, but sadly this wasn't quite the case. I won't ramble on here why the program is faltering as of now, but  a lack of committed leadership and guidance is a major concern.

I tend to get too involved with these kinds of organizations. I extend too much energy trying to set up community service opportunities with both the EC and my fraternity, but when no one shows up it gets me a little down. I feel as if service in the community has gone by the wayside, especially if the only projects you can arrange take place on our ever valuable weekends. Maybe I'm being cynical, but I have the sinking feeling that maybe its just too much to ask some times. Its hard to put forth your own personal time to reach out to the community and not really see a response from your peers. However, next semester I'm going to branch out. I was recently selected as the Co-Chair of Ytoss? and I recently attended a very inspiring meeting of the NRV Chapter of the Sierra Club. Have I been in the wrong organizations? Or have I just needed that positive reinforcement that people still seem to care about their local communities? Anyway, this new found sense of service and stewardship have really given me the kick in the ass I needed. Hopefully, I can begin to positively infuse this feeling into my other organizations as well.

Nov. 19 Reflection

Having the three activists come to class last Wednesday was a great way to relate to the readings to real life.  I liked hearing how their threshold person embodied something that they are representative of today.  However, I had more fun within our blog groups.  Alex led a great discussion group, and I would have enjoyed more time for both group discussion and a more personal question/answer with "our activist," Dave.  We had a very personal group discussion, which was a great way to see how our peers react to a situation, live, learn, and move on.  I also really enjoyed Alex's question of "if we have had a transitional revelation in our lives" (or something to the affect): it was a chance for us to look within ourselves.  I final group discussion for Community Involvement was a very deep and personal one, one that would not have gone as well at the beginning of the semester.  Over the semester our blog group has come together to discuss a variety of topics from a variety of perspectives! 

11/19 Reflections

Wednesday’s activists were intriguing to listen too, in how they see the world and how their communities at early childhood shape their lives into becoming activists.  A lot of their answers had to do with community engagement, and how they sought to make a difference in the world by their inspirations.  Then our group discussion with Dave had some interesting talk involving the strategic plan and the book common fire.  It’s hard to try to get somebody to agree with our opinions so persuasion or even lying at some point occurs.  After viewing the activist points on certain situations, I now have a better understanding for what they do to help others understand the importance of those issues.

Reflection 11/19

I think Wednesday's class with the 3 activist presenters was a great way to get a new perspective on an activist, since the typical idea is someone who is a fanatical nutjob. We were able to see three different perspectives and how each dealt with certain issues pertaining to their cause.  Our discussion also continued to discuss activists within the book Common Fire.  I definitely agree with what our group came up with, that not everyone is meant to be an activist. You need to have some who sit on the sidelines, either in supporting/complementary roles, or even just as Homan describes as inactive supporters. Dave was our guest speaker and his straight-forward approach to his causes may put some off, but to others it may be the perfect thing to get their causes to come to fruition.

Nov. 12 Reflection

I really enjoyed this past Wednesday's class; I liked seeing how our scenario strategic planning exercise was demonstrated in the real world by the Peacework Village Network.  The strategic planning excercise was a great way for our group to take a scenario and apply our different perspectives on the issues within the area.  The break down of the exercise into 9 steps made it easier and clearer for our group to reach a conclusion on the different issues and how to get the community involved.  I liked the transition from group dicussion to the guest speaker.  It was really cool to see how the organization has evolved over the years with the issue of poverty in certain parts of the world.  I also liked Steve's challenge to the class of addressing poverty as a group effort, and how the village and Virginia Tech can offer resources to one another.  Like any group or community, collaboration and communication is the key to resolving issues, on any level of interaction.

Reflection 11-12

On Wednesday we started talking about empowerment. We moved from discussing collaboration, which is supposed to bring peace and get people to agree and settle, while empowerment is about getting people angry or riled up enough to spur them to action. Steve came and talked to us about peacework which helps with development by building and repairing damaged houses for people in 20 countries around the world. It started as a single mission to Nicaragua and grew tremendously and now reaches to all corners of the globe. He said that often villages know what they want and need, but have so many obstacles preventing them from getting it. He mentioned how intimidating and basically impossible it would be if you said your mission was to "end poverty" and you have to break these things down into manageable tasks because otherwise, where would you start? The problem is just that huge.

11/12 Reflection

I thought the nine different questions that we talked about were very interesting. The question that everyone in my group really emphasized on was "how to keep people involved and interested in the group." I think it is important because just from personal experiences, I'd much rather sit at home than going to a group meeting that I don't care much for their cause or if it is redundant with the issues that it is dealing with.
I enjoyed the guest speaker. It opened my eyes a little more to poverty. Poverty statistics have been thrown at me multiple times. There was not really anything he said that I have not heard. I realized how much I take my life for granted. People living on $2/week is an incredible fact. It would be so hard to do that here in the States. It would be living on the street and eat one meal the whole week.

November 12th Class Reflection

I certainly enjoyed class this past week.  The strategic planning exercise was interesting and made you think critically about a situation and the best means on approaching it through a community-based effort. Although I am still a little unsure about some of the various elements within the strategic planning process, the exercise allowed me to gain a better grasp of the whole picture and how each step is related to the next.  I also enjoy the guest speaker from Peacework.  I spent some time on their website after class and now have a much greater appreciation for the work they have done, are doing and will continue to do in the future it seems like.  It's a interesting idea that they serve as sort of a middleman, bringing problems and projects from desperate areas to unviersities that have the resources and motivation to solve them.  With the type of issues and countries Peacework works with, it reminds me of the work done by Frank McKinney's Caring House Foundation.  On spring break last year,  I lead of group of students on a Habitat for Hummanity alternative break trip to South Florida where we met Frank McKinney, a real estate tycoon in the area.  Long story short, he uses his wealth to build self-sustaining villages in the poorest countries around the world through what he calls the Caring House Foundation.  They address a wide range of issues when building these villages because Mr. McKinney is well aware you can't just give someone housing and expect their lives to turn around.  One day, I hope to be able to do work for some group like Peacework or Caring House Foundation. 

Reflecting on 11/12

I really enjoyed this last class. Mostly because of the our guest speaker, Steve, from Peacework (No offense Allie (sp?). You did a great job leading discussion). I have always been interested in improving/providing international health care and nutrition. Since taking International Development 1 year ago I have seen how development is so multifaceted and that development won't occur if we work on one problem at a time. Education, healthcare, jobs/economy, basic needs like food shelter and water, all effect eachother and often prevent successful development. I am so interested in the work that Steve and Peacework do because they try to work on more than just one facet of development. Partnering universities with villages is a great grassroots and symbiotic way to further the goals of development and the goals of a university setting. Wow, I can't say enough about what Peacework is doing. The rest of the class was neat. I think our strategic planning exercise could have been a lot better if we had more time to go over the questions and really provide feedback to one another. I'm actually a little nervous about what our guest will have to say about it!

11/12 Reflection

Wednesday's class was a mix of a couple different things. As a group, we started to put together a strategic plan for our Blacksburg, "anti-"sprawl group.  I think it was somewhat hard for our group to separate the questions since there were more of us than questions, and because a lot of them were so interrelated that our ideas overlapped. However, it is a good idea at the same time to have overlapping ideas because that means we're all on the same page.  It will be interesting to see the final product and how it relates to our discussion next week.  After that, we had our blog group, in which we discussed why people do or don't get active in community activities/events.  I think this was an extremely relevant topic since most of us want to go into fields where public participation is key, and to try and understand the underlying reasons why people don't become active, and try to think of ways to reduce those feelings, etc it can only benefit the whole community.  Following that, we had a speaker from Peacework. I liked how he understood that he knows that they can't solve the world's poverty as a whole in one big swoop, but that going to individual locations and teaching people how to survive and come out of poverty is more vital to solving the underlying problems, not just giving people money. Taking their actions "one community as a time" shows a greater understanding of how the world works and how to try and solve systemic problems.

11/12 Reflection

The guest speaker Steve on peace work really helped me understand some of it; I had heard of peace work before but really didn’t know what they were about.  The ability to connect on so many different levels is great because being able to use our students, faculty, and college to help others who need our resources.  My group mainly discussed that people have the desire to help a group but don’t because of certain issues.  A lot of people want to support a group that have the same desires as they do but don’t go out and support it because of laziness, feeling singled out, and feeling like the group is already established.  Also the strategic planning exercise went over really well with group, everybody discussed their individual questions and I think the document should come out good.

Nov. 5 Reflection

Wednesday's class to the Shadowlake Village was definitely an experience and a great way to get an inside look on how cohousing developments work.  The field trip did help to put cohouusing into a better perspective.  I understand more of the community atmosphere that is created through the layout of the development: from the interconnecting sidewalks to group parking spaces to the large front porches.  I also found the Shadowlake Village development to be unique from other cohousing developments in that they have held the larger Blacksburg commnuity meetings and home schooling sessions in their community building.  Shadowlake Village is a good representation of what a cohousing community is like, however, I still have some doubts about the functionality of the development and the exclusive factor.

Reflection on Co-Housing

Due to the fact it was night time and right after Halloween I think my opinion of co-housing is still up in the air. I really like the way the community is designed. The common gardens,pedestrian friendly walk ways,and common house are all great ideas that build a sense of community that is missing from most suburbs. Everyone seemed to get along with each other and I sensed a connectedness among each of the neighbors. The fact that parents could let their kids run around at night with confidence nothing bad would happen speaks volumes to what co-housing is trying to accomplish. Building a community based on collaboration and teamwork could just be what this country needs to solve some social issues.

However, I'm still a little skeptical about the "political"side of Co-housing. Once again the community is designed well for both building social capital and mitigating harm to the environment. I sincerely hope that more developments will be designed in this fashion in the near future. However, I believe that everyone should be able to live in these sustainable communities. Even though Shadowlake didn't have a selection process per se..other co-housing units on the website did. I don't see a very fair or efficient process here. Also they kept mentioning that they have no "rules", but they do have norms and expectations. Sorry those kind of sound like rules to me. I asked our tour guide if any families had left Shadowlake on bad terms. She said some families had left and that "they didn't see things eye-to-eye with the rest of the development". What does that mean?

Also I'm worried for the kids. The question I was dying to ask was two-fold. Do the parents expect the peaceful setting they are currently enjoying to change once these kids all become teenagers? Also what happens when these kids go to college and the culture shock is just too much for them? It seems that if I grew up in a community where everything was shared, everyone was friendly and supportive, and everyone made sure problems were worked out through collaboration I would be disappointed with the rest of the world. Maybe they would shake out of it, but I just see the transition being difficult.

Maybe I'm just being cynical. Long weekend.

Shadow Lake Village Visit: Reflection

Co housing is a great idea if that's the kind of lifestyle you like or were used to, but I think could be culture shock to somebody who wasn't used to it. Visiting there, it was neat to see all the kids running around, even after dark, and as a kid, I would have had an absolute blast growing up in a neighborhood like this. Co housing does offer a lot of things that regular neighborhoods do not and you can definitely see the social and ecological benefits of this sort of community. I thought the common house was very homey; I really felt like I was sitting at somebody's kitchen table, which was pretty cool. Visiting Shadow Lake was great because, at first, I thought the idea of co housing was kind of creepy, but the houses were designed in such a way as to provide privacy if you needed it. Now, I can't say I'm itching to move into anything like this after graduation, but, it has its benefits and drawbacks, so it was at least interesting to visit one.

Class Reflection November 5th

I thoroughly enjoyed our field trip to Shadowlake Village.  I have been interested in cohousing neighborhoods for a while and decided to pick this as my external to allow me the opportunity to find out more information.  From my research, interviews and visit to Shadowlake, it is clear there is a passionate group of people that believe in cohousing and the benefits it provides compared to a more traditional neighborhood. It was also very interesting to see the variety of cohousing communities that exist, some small, some large, all with varying governing principles and overall purposes.  In particular, I liked how Shadowlake seemed to be more of just a family friendly environment for anyone to enjoy.  Not particularly dedicated to any one ideal, the residents were friendly and open to sharing their homes and stories with us.  The tour of the neighborhood allowed me to see a lot of what I've heard about cohousing put in practice, such as peripheral parking, attached homes/duplexes and locating the common house at the center of the neighborhood.  The Q&A period with the residents, while very informative, gave me the chance to see who really lives in cohousing and the type of people they are.  I was pleasantly surprised to see how "normal" they were and unlike a commune.  I'm not sure if I would consider living in cohousing in the near future, but it is certainly something I support and would consider in the future.