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2021laxteentour · 4 years ago

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En Route…

My name is Ariyana and I am a rising senior. I attend Blythewood High School and I am from Blythewood, South Carolin. This is my first time volunteering with the program but I am very excited. I think I am most excited to just be in LA and have the opportunity to visit UCLA and USC.I have never been to LA before but I am very excited to have this opportunity and the learn about the side of the country. I am also very excited to volunteer and help in a different setting. -Ariyana L.

I'm Tiffany and I'm 18 years old. I just graduated from Aiken High School this year. This is my first time in L.A. I'm from Aiken, Sc. I'm anticipating on enjoying this trip, celebrity site seeing/film sightings, trying new things and learning about L.A. -Tiffany W.

Hello Everyone, my name is Roderick and I will be a college freshman in the fall. Going into my 5th Year with WECCAAN, I’m excited for the impact that we’ll be able to make in Los Angeles. I look forward to the experience of giving back to a community this summer. I also look forward to the insightful knowledge I can receive from the trip itself. -Roderick T.

Every year it's like getting the band back together. I always enjoy the beginning of the tours because I know what impact the experience has and I enjoy seeing the transformation process. I expect like every year, the volunteers will build bonds and have fun giving back to the communities. -Giovan B.

I’m from Aiken, SC. This is my first time touring. I’m hoping to learn more about the group, gain insight to assist other youth with developing leadership and life skills as well as opening their eyes to community needs as they prepare for college and other chapters in life. -Pamela F.

Hi, my name is Stephanie. I am a kindergarten teacher from Blythewood,SC. This will be my first time in LA. I am looking forward to making memories with my rising senior, exploring a new area, and volunteering with the group for the first time. -Stephanie L.

I anticipate getting first-hand knowledge of a few of California's most well-known colleges and universities; hands-on volunteer experience with environmental awareness and compassion, through helping to clean up "Skid Row", sight-seeing some of L.A.'s most famous landmarks and areas, and the invaluable feeling of camaraderie through team work and shared experiences. Last, but possibly most important, the personal joy of witnessing Students learn directly that the world is bigger than their backyard, town, city, and state. -Carissa P.

I am 23 years old. I have a B.S. in chemistry and currently enrolled in a masters program that I will finish in December. I am from Aiken, SC and I have visited LA previously. Volunteering has always been a passion of mine so the volunteer tour I’m super excited for. I’m also ready to learn née things and be able to incorporate them into my daily life and studies. When boarding the 3:45pm flight I reviewed the itinerary and immediately thought of a busy weekend. I was super excited for the college visits to see what other schools offered compared to the college I currently attend. I looked up different majors they offered and what I might be interested in other than what I do now. Knowing that these schools were highly competitive to get into, it was exciting to go and view the campuses and learn more about what is out there. Also, I was looking at the community service that we would possibly participate in and honestly, I was excited about volunteering at the Nipsey Hussle’s Marathon and Neighborhood. I didn’t know much about Skid Row but was interested in the service there also. After reviewing the itinerary on the plane ride I just thought about helping. The whole point of the trip was about helping and serving and it warmed my heart knowing I was going to go serve and make a difference. -Morgan F.

My name is Ashleigh, I’m 16 years old . I attend South Aiken High School, and I’m going to the 11th grade. I’m from Aiken, SC. I’ve actually never been to this part of California and what I hope to gain from this tour is the Los Angeles experiences of how it truly is to live here and hopefully learn something new. This is also my first time volunteering with this group, so I expect to have slot of fun also! -Ashleigh F.

I am Paris and I am 17 years.I going to the 12th grade. I live in Columbia. I’ve only been to LA once and I just stayed at a hotel for a layover then left the next day. I anticipate that this tour will be informing and extremely enjoyable. -Paris B.

I anticipate getting to be with our volunteer family. I also anticipate and looking forward to our volunteering with the Aids organization this year and seeing how Skid road looks this year after this continuation of this pandemic. I just arrived from Zephyrhills, Florida and am ready to go! This is my second visit to L.A. and I am so excited to be back to sunny, humid free California. I am looking forward to see our volunteer activity this year and getting to work along the Aids foundation/group. Also I am looking forward to seeing other volunteers new and old. I'm also excited to our college (s) tour, it is one of the most rewarding aspect of visiting colleges while touring is seeing our young ones faces when they visit the colleges they dreamed of! ( and more likely will get in them one day). They come asking lots of questions, learning, taking notes and soaking it all in. I am ready :) -Rania A.

I am Stephanie, a Kindergarten teacher, Blythewood,SC. I am looking forward to making memories with my rising senior in high school and leaving a lasting impact on the community we will be assisting with. -Stephanie L.

This is my first time touring. I’m hoping to learn more about the group, gain insite to assist other youth with developing leadership and life skills as well as opening their eyes to community needs as their prepare for college and other chapters in life. -Pamela F.

Hello my name is Pamela G. This is my third LA trip. I am very excited to travel with the group again. I am anticipating getting the opportunity to see familiar and new faces. This weekend I am starting a new chapter in my life. I ‘m looking forward to the following adventures. First of all the educational diverse car conversation. A moment to walk silently along the beaches to mediate and reflect. The opportunity to see the beautiful houses on the mountain side.

I looking forward to volunteering and giving back. I am so looking forward to walking down Rodeo Drive and Hollywood Blvd. I’m looking forward to visiting Dr. Mike favorite taco spot on Venice Beach. Finally, I looking forward to a blueberry donut from Randy’s. Let’s all start this weekend off on a positive note. You never know what the people in the group are going through And the sacrifices we all made to make this trip happen. Again Thank You Dr. Mike for the major sacrifices you made to pull this all together. -Pamela G.

Safely landed from Atlanta to LA to join the other WeCCAAN volunteers in our eighteenth tour. This began just sending my oldest son to attend and now myself and youngest son. This will be my second tour for LA rendering service and I'm delighted to be here to grasp hold new knowledge to add from the first attending event. For myself volunteering doesn't come as a new to do because I have been doing this for years now. Wanting to show both my son that it's a great deed in planting seeds by giving yourself to help another. Whether their high or low just be content, humble and considering of others and whatever circumstance or challenges they could be facing. Therefore my intentions for this tour is to continue the journey set forth for my seeds and for them to become more observant to people and their languages (such as how they carry themselves and treat another). More so than ever to enjoy the fruit of laboring and honor of being present in the Now. Leading in example for both of my sons and continuing to do for my own being. For this I would like to thank the organizer(s) as well as the donors for continuing this opportunity for us all. Yesterday me and Darius took a stroll down Century Blvd for a bite to eat. We were using GPS on walk mode trying to find the pizza spot called zPizza Bar, which was considered a 14min walk lol. Laughing because it took us a little longer, we 1st went the wrong way, turned around to the correct route, then realized the phones were dying. We stopped to go in for the charges then on to the delicious pizza, that means we enjoyed it. By this time were done and LA is now nightly lit up, so it was photo time. -Tia J.

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2021laxteentour · 4 years ago

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2021laxteentour · 4 years ago

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Day One (Arrival)

Today was amazing on so many levels. I flew across the country to actually explore California and not just stop by. I have seen so many beauties in one day and I loved every moment because there is just a difference seeing something in real life for yourself which brings a rush into your body. Seeing the Memorial and looking at the neighborhoods was very emotional for me by seeing how celebrated he still is after his passing, The Walk of Fame was really crowded so I didn’t get the impact I was expecting but it was still a rush nonetheless. -Paris B.

From the Hollywood Walk of Fame to Rodeo Drive, I was put in the path to explore greatness. Greatness when it came to focusing on a career and greatness when it came to how to elevate a business. While on the Hollywood Walk of Fame I was able to see some of the people stars that I idolized as a child. Doing so served as an inspiration to keep striving for greatness because that too could be my star one day. Alongside visiting the Walk of Fame, you know what they say you didn’t go to Los Angeles unless you went to Randy’s Donut. So far along my travels to Los Angeles for my 6th WECCAAN installment I’ve seen a thriving city on the outside shell. I look forward to being able to see the inside of the shell where the hardships fall at. I’m excited for the adventure that awaits tomorrow as we prepare to volunteer on Skid Row. -Roderick T.

Today we went to Nipsey Hussle's basketball court, store, and memorial area. I've also learned a lityle bit more about the story behind his death as well. Then we went to Hollywood and we saw, and walked on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. We also saw a cast member of the Fast and Furious 9 movie in Hollywood. I also saw the car/set of the movie as well. I also learned about the famous theaters in Hollywood and I hope to get an opportunity to perform there in my mother's stage plays/movies. Afterwards, we went to Rodeo Dr. in Beverly Hills to view the high class stores. This is my first time on a plane and in California. -Tiffany W.

This was only my second ever plane ride so I was slightly nervous but everything went well for me. I noticed that Los Angeles is a lot faster than Columbia and has such a diverse variety of people. Within minutes we traveled from a street with many homeless and drugged people; to a street with purses worth more than a house. My favorite part of the day was visiting Long Beach; it was what I had imagined LA to be like. I also enjoyed seeing the Nipsey Hussle memorials; they were so well done and creatively made. Although Hollywood was very chaotic, I still really enjoyed going there as well. We also visited Randy's Donuts which was really delicious and also something that I was looking forward to when arriving in California. I really enjoy trying new things and everything that I did today was new! -Ariyana L.

Today’s visit to Nipsey Hussle’s Marathon store and neighborhood was enriching which started with the community event at the school. Seeing the outpouring support from the community for what Nipsey stood for was overwhelming. In contrast, going to Rodeo Drive and seeing all the high end stores reminded me of how divided the country is - the have & the have nots. Long Beach area was fun with lots to do. But even there, we ran across a homeless person. Hollywood Blvd wasn’t what I expected. I guess since it is where the rich & famous hang out, I expected everything to look “rich & famous”. It reminded me of New York. A busy, dirty street yet full of history and landmarks. -Pamela F.

Starting the day off with morning circles was cool as everyone got to know one another. I really enjoyed starting with the crepes located in Pasadena as it introduced me to a different culture of authentic food and was really delicious. Also going downtown Hollywood was inspiring with seeing the stars on the ground for actors and actresses showing proof for their hard work and running into Han off of Fast and Furious. Stopping by Randy’s was super good and good to taste the traditional donuts that have been there since 1930’s. Visiting Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive was nice to see how the rich and famous live and spend their money and seeing the nice cars was cool too (different from home). Visiting Nipsey Hussle community was inspiring too as he has had an outstanding impact on the community. Out of all the sites visited today I really enjoyed the school that gave away food, water and clothing. Reminded me of what I want to be able to do with my community and I just thought that was amazing at how they were able to do with no cost to the children or parents. I enjoyed the day as it helped reflect on ideas that I want to achieve on my own. -Morgan F.

Today was a super busy jampacked day with tons of stops. I really enjoyed Long Beach, the weather was perfect and the temperature was just right for walking and enjoying the scenery. Our stop to Hollywood stars was a bit more exciting this year, we were able to see some celebrities from the newest Fast and Furious movie that will be coming out in a couple of weeks (which I have seen every single one!) Closing out the day with a quick stop to Rodeo drive was calming from the busyness of Hollywood but was a nice addition to see all the shopping areas where-more likely all the celebrities shop. I am looking forward to my favorite event tomorrow where we get to volunteer in Crenshaw neighborhood. -Rania A.

The first day here in Los Angeles was full and eventful. It is always enjoyable to catch up with previous WECCAAN volunteers and meet new teenagers as we embark on a new adventure. This is my second time in California and Los Angeles and it certainly feels like an experience unlike the first. Having seen Crenshaw and visited Nipsey’s several murals, I was reminded of the sense of pride a community will have during hard times. Yet 2 years after his passing, his legacy lives through the community. It brought a refreshing energy although the aesthetics weren’t your expected California stereotype. Sight seeing in Long Beach, Rodeo Drive, and Hollywood inspires aspiring beliefs of ones own drive for success. I look forward to what day 2 of this trip brings. -Steven V.T.

I really enjoyed starting with the crepes as it introduced me to a different culture of authentic food. Also going downtown Hollywood was inspiring with seeing the stars on the ground for actors and actresses showing proof for their hard work. Out of all the sites visited today I really enjoyed the school that gave away food, water and clothing. Reminded me of what I want to be able to do with my community and I just thought that was amazing at how they were able to do with no cost to the children or parents. I enjoyed the day as it helped reflect on ideas that I want to achieve on my own. -Morgan F.

Today, I met the other tourists to go to new places. We went to Subway for breakfast and went to a Juneteenth celebration. We then went to take pictures at the "Nipsey Hussle Memorial Sight". We took a 30 minute drive to the pier where we took pictures. Today was a great experience. Going to places I've never been, meeting new people, it's been a fun experience. -Darius W.

Interesting day, as we started by taking a stroll down Crenshaw Blvd. In observance to this Juneteenth weekend, we were able to see the local vendors up and down the sidewalk. Adjacent to the mural of the late Nipsey Hussle, the vendors showcased several different items for purchase. Then on to Long Bleach where you seen paddle boats, multishared cyclists, and boats. Took a walk over the pier, seen lots of lovely views from the shoppes to the eatery's and even the friendly people walking with their animals. Sharing this experience with my sons is the greatest feeling and meeting and creating relationships along with memories with WECCAAN is so well worth the flight! -Tia J.

My first day in California was awesome! The beautiful art work that was displayed in Nipsey Hussel’s neighborhood was just fantastic. I was surprised to see so many vendors outside of where his store once was selling his merchandise. However, I felt that it took away from the memorial the community was trying to build. As I reflect over this specific site we visited today, I wish I could have served during the first LA tour when there was a chance to garden after his death. I am looking forward to day two of this awesome experience. -Stephanie L.

Today was an amazing day out in LA. Especially Crenshaw where we went to visit Nipsey’s shop, it taught me a lot on how his people truly cared for him and how much dedication he put into that part of the city, with his music and etc. His murals were very beautiful. To finish off the day with the late night walk at rodeo drive was pretty relaxing too ....today was truly a really good day! -Ashleigh F.

Today was long overdue. It's been quite sometime since I've been with a group of people and in heavily populated areas. That combined with the solidarity of our convening around service to others was a feeling that did my soul a lot of good. Although traffic was horrendous, I was inspired by the people out and about. I met many new volunteers today and was pleased to share the experience of exploring Los Angeles with them post-quarantine. I was thrilled to revisit Randy's not so much for my sweet tooth, but there's some comfort in ritual and one of SSA's while in LA is to visit Randy's everyday of every trip. Seeing the diversity of the people waiting in line reminded me how beautiful it is to contribute to the color of the world. I will surely make the most out of the sleep I get tonight; extremely exhausted currently, but in the best way. -Giovan B.

My family had been to California several times, Anaheim, San Diego, Santa Clara, Santa Ana but had only passed through LA. While reviewing the itinerary, I wondered how the group would interact and if we’d know anybody since this was our first trip. The girls were excited about the tour stops and the activities planned. We went through the TSA check line to get through faster. Even though we arrived 3hrs ahead of time, the lines were pretty long. The flight seemed long only because a passenger loudly talked the entire way and continuously pressed the stewardess call button. -Pamela F.

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2021laxteentour · 4 years ago

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Day Two (Volunteering on Skid Row)

Going to Skid Row was very eye opening to me because it showed me how your decisions can but you in a dangerous and deadly place. It also showed me how good I have it as a person due to me realizing my acres to food, toiletries, bed, and much more. Going to USC gave me a chance to have my very first college visit and it didn’t disappoint. I was shocked by the huge size and added a option to my college list. Going to Venice beach was fun it showed me many different types of people and talents. Which was extremely exciting and fun. -Paris B.

Today I learned so many new things. I am so glad that we started out the day with helping others. Skid Row was a completely different experience that I had never seen before. The most important thing that the Skid Row taught me was that they aren’t bad people they just made some bad decisions. When I talked to some of the people and went around the community that statement made so much sense. I also got to view the Hollywood sign which was amazing. I also really enjoyed Venice and Santa Monica; it reminded me so much of a carnival or an amusement park. One of the most beautiful parts was the canal that was similar to Venice Italy. -Ariyana L.

Today was another exciting new adventure. Helping those on skid row was the most gratifying experiences of the entire trip. Being able to serve others on the first official Juneteenth holiday is what it’s all about. I was also overjoyed to see the big smile on my daughter’s face when we were able to visit USC college campus and she was able to see their state of the art aquatic center. She has been swimming competitively since she was 6 years old. For her to see what she has always dreamed to visit come to life was awesome! Thanks for helping us make those memories! -Stephanie L.

Today was filled with a lot of different fun activities. Besides the fun activities, starting the morning off with community service was emotional as it opened the eyes of what reality for some people really is. Previously I have done community service but this one was different. Although it was hard to see, it warmed my heart to see the community coming together once again to make a difference. Whether it was cutting or doing hair, picking up trash or providing meals and water. I truly left thankful. The college visit at USC was interesting and fun. I was amazed that the campus had an amazon, target and an apple store. We then moved to Venice beach, and I found it relaxing and had some of the best burgers! And it was cool to see that they had a lot of activities surrounding it like: basketball and tennis courts, skate park, eateries, shops and cool surfing spots. Learned some knew things ending the night at the Santa Monica Pier and was cool too with the atmosphere it provided. It’s been awhile attending a carnival style setting since Covid arrived. Overall, this was a fun experience but also an eye opener. Once again, I’m thankful. -Morgan F.

Today will definitely go down in history! WECCAAN volunteered on Juneteenth , which is now a new recognized holiday! We cleaned Skid Row and interacted with the locals, which I say was very rewarding and the highlight of my day. We made a quick visit to USC which had a beautiful campus, what I loved about visiting the campus is having one of the teens stare, take pictures and take mental notes of the size of the Olympic pool that was on campus. Talking with this young lady and seeing that this campus might be a perfect fit when she finishes high school. This type of discussion, interaction and visitation to a campus for our teens makes the trip extra rewarding and fulfilling. Traffic was busy for it being a weekend, but that didn't stop us from making a stop in Hollywood and taking a great group picture of the Hollywood sign that I almost see in lots of movies. Our day continued with a great bite to eat and people watching for sure at the infamous Venice beach. We had the opportunity to soak our feet and enjoy the beautiful breeze and most definitely get in some quality time and fellowship with new and old WeCCAN members. -Rania A.

Today is Juneteenth and we volunteered by picking up trash on Skid Row. Despite the luxurious parts of California, Skid Row has the highest homeless rate in California. I also saw a lot of tents on the streets & then we met a homeless man who had his own face on a wall mural. Afterwards, a man talked to us & he told his story about being homeless himself to owning a restaurant. This reminds me of my mother's stage play called "The Stranger". It is about a black man who loses his job & family. Then he becomes homeless & a woman finds interest in him. Then she encourages him to get back on his feet. The message of the story is once you fall, you must rise up. Meanwhile, we went to Rose Park & I learned that Jackie Robinson was a football player. Lastly, we went to Venice Beach & Santa Monica. -Tiffany W.

I started my journey today by going to Skid Row and beautifying their community. I took my 1st trip to the Staples Center where I was able to take pictures with famous L.A Basketball players. We also went to the Rose Bowl Stadium for a restroom break and a workout. We then went to USC to look around the outside of the college. Then we went to Venice Beach, also known as Muscle Beach there we ate food from 2 taco places. Our last stop we went to the Santa Monica pier as we walked onto the boardwalk bridge looking at the oceanfront and the attractions at the pier, we then used the restrooms, and bought us some slushies. Today I had a great experience and hope to have more opportunities to share on the WECCAAN/ SeeAndServe service tours. -Darius W.

Today was truly a great experience, not just connecting with the group but for also the beautiful places we visited today. When we helped pick up the trash around the homeless it really opened my eyes to how truly I’m blessed and how I even live. That man that gave that speech really inspired me to believe in myself that anything is possible and dreams come true! Once again the beach was full of fun and laughter and relaxation to end the day off with. I’ve truly enjoyed my time here with this group in California ! -Ashleigh F.

Today we started bright an early but we started the day right with chicken biscuits courtesy of Dr Mike. Hunger satiated we hoped in the vehicles and headed to Skid Row. When we arrived there were parts of streets that had already been cleaned by other volunteers. I'm very inspired by this, there are more of us trying to make a difference in the world by serving the most vulnerable and ostracized of our community; people just like you and me, who are experiencing homelessness at this stage in their life. We walked up and down the streets whose sidewalks were lined with makeshift tents and shelters for the people living there. While every eye ogled at us out of curiosity; a few residents thanked us for being there. It was a stark reminder to have gratitude for the things in my life that I sometimes take for granted. I'm grateful for this experience and to see the emotions provoked in the young volunteers who are seeing homelessness up close and personal. Looking forward to tomorrow. -Giovan B.

This morning starting with a light breakfast. The volunteer site for this service learning trip was Skid Row. We had the opportunity to help to beautify the street that the people call home. Most people will not take the time to help the homeless. Those streets are dangerous. The homeless people are just surviving not leaving. It was very inspiring to hear Kevin Call story. When the odds are against you can overcome. The tour was a true at the right time. I enjoyed spending time with my once a year family. -Pamela G.

It's the 1st day Juneteenth is being considered as a national holiday and I'm up to volunteer my services. Dropped off on a 600 block of one of several streets in the community of Skid Row. As stories have unfolded about this community, I'm blessed to say I was dropped off to render services but not there to stay as some often do. Picking up the many piles of trash, to some those are considered to be their hidden treasures so be careful and observant as well as mindful for this is their home. It felt great being able to give complements as we stroll through, as I know a kind gesture will take you farther than condemning. We met Kevin Call who was once a product of the environment but has turned his life around and now he's rendering to the needs of this community. I think that's Awesome and very Inspirational to share this form of love! Strolling through making plenty of stops to monumental locations. Next up would be the Staples Center a place where I have never been. Seeing the nicely placed statues of Erving "Magic" Johnson, Shaquille O'neal, Oscar De La Hoyas, and Wayne Gritzskey all known for doing great things in the world of sports. I captured those moments by taking photos with my SunShines. On to the site of the art museum and there you will see beautiful architecture. Grabbing the fresh cut fruit from a family stand was a refreshing feeling to receive after the servicing, closest thing to water. Walked the campus of USC had one of my sons to look up facts about the school. Found out they're a D1 school in the athletic department, seen their lovely pool then snapped a few photos. Cool breeze from the site of Venice beach, known to some as "Muscle Beach". Many souvenir venues along the walk so I took to making a few purchases as we searched for some much needed food. Quenching my thirst with some cinnamon toast flavored rice milk, how refreshing. From here to the Santa Monica Pier, the calm ocean waters were making nice waves. My son would make the comment of it feels like its about to rain, due to the shores mist splashing in the air over the bridge. So many people out and enjoying the festivities around us, seems as the pandemic is ceased for their moments. For me it's still surreal so strolling through with my mask on and viewing these lovely places of California. Overall I enjoyed my entire day and although I missed the beautiful parade in my city, I was able to parade in another city by giving service on the 1st official holiday of Juneteenth! -Tia J.

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2021laxteentour · 4 years ago

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Day Three (Reflection and Departure)

Thank you so much for this opportunity, I’ve learned so much more than I thought I ever would. This trip showed me how differently the two extremes of the United States live. Seeing all of the different kinds of people was very interesting and was a truly unique experience. On the last day we visited Bruce Beach which was absolutely beautiful. I would have never heard about his story or the beach without Dr.Mike.I am so grateful that I was able to attend the trip to LA and meet everyone else. -Ariyana L.

This whole trip has been amazing for me. I got to see Hollywood as it seems like on tv. I also really enjoyed seeing the parts that aren’t televised. This helped show how everything always isn’t glam as it is made out. Also with learning the history of Bruce Beach it made me appreciate the trip even more. It was truly a eye open ring experience and I can’t wait to travel with Dr.Mike again. -Paris B.

Dr. Mike, I thoroughly enjoyed this year's WECCAN! We had an amazing group and the energy was just right! The reflection time on Manhattan beach was great, I loved to hear the teens and young adults share their feelings about this weekend and how Skid row volunteering event impacted them, how they will share with their friends and family their experiences and how this is and will shape their future/lives. THIS IS what it's all about! So thank you for another successful year, love love love our WeCCAN family. -Rania A.

The morning circles were always times of reflection. Dr. Weaver would leave us with a history tidbit and outline the routine for that day. Today we were going to Bruce’s Beach (Manhattan Beach) for a time of reflection. This beach was condemned through eminent domain proceedings in 1924 from several minority families. The beach is my favorite place of refuge & reflection. After arriving, we formed our normal circle and Dr. Weaver gave the history as we stood directly in front of the land. The beach is absolutely beautiful. I think I saw a few minorities wandering about, whether walking, running or riding bikes. We were instructed to go separately and reflect on events that transpired during the tour, what are we thankful for. I think experiencing skid row was most impactful for me. I’m so thankful & grateful for my life, the opportunities & freedoms I have. To see the “super rich & famous” across town and in this area, those that could possibly die because of the decisions made. To see people not knowing where the next meal was coming from or even asking for water, was touching. The most populated homeless area in America….touching! I reflected on having family that care enough to see about my well being. After the reflection period alone, we gathered again in our circle and each person was given the opportunity to share his/her experiences. I can definitely go out & share with others the impact this organization has on others. -Pamela F.

Wow! What a awesome weekend we had. This was definitely one for the books. This service learning experience was well organized from start to finish. As I reflect over the entire experience I was touched by the way all of the teens conducted themselves and served willingly without complaints. I loved that the entire group bonded so quickly like we were all family. That made the experience even more rewarding. All of the places that were toured was worth the effort put into the planning. The entire weekend was very impactful! I look forward to continuing volunteering with this group. -Stephanie L.

Skid row, one of the most populated homelessness sections in America was quite an eye opener. Being able to help provide community service in this area was uplifting. The group was divided into smaller groups and we picked up trash and cleaned the area the homeless where the homeless people lived. It was difficult determining what was trash. The saying “one man’s trash is another’s mans treasure” goes a long way here. I learned that most homeless people are hoarders. They think they will never have enough. You can also see the “classes” of homelessness, better texts or better looking tents we ran across a gentleman who is now a minister. He used to be homeless as well. He came back to skid row and feed the hungry. He talked with us for a while and mentioned that he’s unified some family members. He also stated that women come looking pretty when they get off the bus, then a couple of weeks later, after the drug dealers have gotten to them, they are unrecognizable. He said many will die on skid row. It’s up to the individual to decide his/her fate. He encourage us to keep doing what we doing — it’s making an impact, it can change lives. He’s been recognized by LA with many certificates for helping the homeless and is part owner in a seafood restaurant around the corner from skid row. Our next stop was the Rose Bowl stadium which was very nice to see where all the games are played. One of the chaperones, Steven actually played in the Rose Bowl in 2019 while at University of GA. UCLA was a huge campus. We had the opportunity to see the swim team area walk the campus. Any campus that have an Amazon store on-site — well, you’re doing a lot of business! Venice Beach had so many activities - tennis, basketball, skate park, vendors, etc. A fun yet relaxing place to enjoy. The condolas neighborhood was awesome with the paddle boats to mimic Venice, Italy. The Sacramento Pier was a nice board walk with plenty of eateries and fun stuff to do. -Pamela F.

I’m very grateful to have experienced this trip, not with just the amazing people who were on it but going places and realizing and opening the minds of I and others about how things truly are in the world. I loved every part of it. I wish to go on MANY more with this group and see the world. And learn so much more things about what goes on in the world and other cities and countries etc. Thank you for this trip Dr. Mike! -Ashleigh F.

This was a morning of reflection. Looking back over the weekend I had some really exciting moments and some emotional ones also. I was emotional because I started to compare the places we visited. From visiting Hollywood and Rodeo Drive to experiencing Skid-Row and seeing the different social classes and life choices that people have made. But visiting Skid-Row made me confirm that I want to do more hands-on community service. Visiting Manhattan Beach, which was once owned by a black family and now after 100 years they regain their property was heartbreaking. Being there, made me reflect on the Juneteenth holiday and everything that it stood for. I loved the group that I met and the new relationships that formed and now consider everyone family. I can’t wait for more opportunities to explore the world and expand my knowledge. I thought the trip was overall a fun and learning experience. On the way back home I felt more inspired, thankful and energized as I share back home the memories, experiences and knowledge I received from this trip. Hopefully those who I speak to about what I learned gets inspired and want to join on the next trip that’s planned. -Morgan F.

Yesterday evening while on Venice Beach some of us got in the Pacific ocean. Yes it was as cool as it sounds. There's nothing quite feeling the crisp refreshment of being in an ocean. I slept like a baby when we got back to the hotel. This morning we went to Manhattan Beach and observed the land that will be returned to the people whom it was stolen from over a hundred years ago. This makes my heart joyous and reminds me to continue believing the world can constantly improve by the voices and acts of those who turn energy into action. Who translate their passion in progress in the world around us. That's the impact of SSA; to galvanize the volunteers to channel the energy gained from the tour into action within their own community. To inspire the next generation to continue to pay it forward. I'm honored to be a part of SSA and grateful for all the volunteers in the past and in the future; and incredibly grateful for the philanthropy of our donors who make this enlightening tour a reality. Counting down until next time. -Giovan B.

Being able to break the beautiful shell of Los Angeles and explore its “light and dark” sides showed me the importance of community. Skid Row is a community of people who may have or have not made the right decisions in life at one point in time. It exemplifies how even though you may be down or not as capable as the the next person with the support of people around you, you can still keep moving forward. The residents of Skid Row have developed their own form of civilization. What stood out to me the most from visiting this community was the inspirational people from those that still lived their to those that had found a way out, it was all inspirational. To be able to see one of Skid Row’s own people mural placed on his street was a show of how they uplift each other. Pastor Blue , a resident of Skid Row, showed us that nothing can stop you from your faith. You personally have to be willing to motivate yourself to higher heights. Since a child, I’ve always been told that “being able to talk amongst others is one thing but being able to liberate those that are listening is better.” Overall, being able to have the chance to Skid Row even more pretty than what it already was brought a sense of joy not only to my heart but to my soul because my life purpose is to serve,advocate, and grow. Alongside, going to Skid Row to do community service, I was also granted with the opportunity of visiting the beautiful campus of University of Southern California. While at USC I got to see how money is able to influence a lot on a college campus. This includes what amenities you may have, how the campus looks, and the opportunities that can be granted to you when their is more funds. Before going to USC I had the opportunity to visit the Rose Bowl stadium in Pasadena and catch an amazing photo with the Hollywood Sign. Later in the night we had the chance of not only visiting Venice Beach better known as “Muscle Beach” but also got the chance to explore the Santa Monica pier. Be able to explore gave me the chance to try new foods and see mew things. While at Venice Beach I was granted the opportunity of tasting Birria Tacos but I also tried Elote. Trying new foods allowed me to be able to explore the foods of a different culture and ethnic group of people. Lastly when visiting Santa Monica I was able to walk the pier and see the different rides and attractions that the pier had to offer. -Roderick T.

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