Changing Worlds is a unique and wonderful non-profit organization! Not only does it show through the hard work and dedication of their staff, but of all the teachers and volunteers involved in the programs. Everyday you can see the difference their programs make in the schools of Chicago through cross-cultural arts education! The programs really broaden the horizons of the youth who get to experience the programs and also give them a new view on their history, other cultures and family backgrounds.
After hearing of the mission of Changing Worlds, I made it a point to learn more about the organization and realized that their mission was closely aligned with that of my University (Roosevelt University) and my own personal beliefs. I met with the Executive Director to discuss the possibility of becoming involved and am now a board member. At a time when Chicago is seeing more diversity in its schools and its communities but less tolerance and understanding of these diverse cultures, Changing Worlds is taking the lead as an organization that is trying to address this problem. Changing Worlds effectively uses the Arts and Oral Histories to help students and community members understand not only their own culture and roots but the culture of others. They highlight not the differences but the similarities that we all share. With knowledge comes an acceptance of "different" and a curiosity that brings people together. Most importantly, Changing Worlds not only provides these services but this dedicated group of professionals also train teachers to continue this work when they are gone. This is a wonderful organization and I am proud and honored to serve on its board.
I had an opportunity to work closely with CW and participated in some of the school projects they initiated with teachers. The integration of art into the literacy experience was so powerful. And the culminating events that included families were always very touching--seeing people who could very well have felt marginalized in the public school system were instead having their stories and their heritage celebrated. Every one of us was richer for the experience--the students in how they broadened their understanding of others, how they re-presented their experiences through art, and how they worked through a rigorous process for writing their family stories; the teachers in how they gained deeper insights to the students with whom they worked as well as some practices (such as integrating the arts) that enhanced the literacy experience; the families in their strengthened connections with the school community. I recently invited CW to come and speak to my graduate students, because I wanted them to learn about the many ways they might incorporate their students' heritage into literacy projects, and about the way one organization leads the way in doing this.
I work for Changing Worlds as an art teacher. I love to work with them because they really support my work and are always ready to give me any tools to be a better professional.
Entreprneurial, engaged with communities, thoughtful, effective and makes a real difference -- outcomes! Some of the words I use to describe Changing Worlds and the true difference the organization makes.
I have worked with Changing Worlds for two years and I am impressed with the organization's ambition to grow, its commitment to students, and its appreciation of the arts in schools and in the community. As a teaching artist, I feel supported by my colleagues and by the leaders in the organization.
I have had the pleasure of working with the staff and management at Changing Worlds since 2006. It is by far one of the more exemplary mid-sized non-profits that I have seen in my many years as a consultant and manager. Changing Worlds has a winning oombination of progressive, very talented and committed staff and Board members that believe in its mission to connect cultures through the arts.