(A.Spaccarelli/CLAIR) – On Saturday, August 12th, the For the Need Foundation organized an event for children and families of the Bow & Arrow Mentorship Program. This program is one of the foundation’s longest-running initiatives. It aims to assist children who are homeless or at risk of homelessness by teaching them essential life skills.
The day commenced with an orientation by Shannon Cochran, the foundation’s mental health consultant. She opened with a talk emphasizing the significance of making informed decisions.
Following the discussion, the children, referred to as “Arrows,” were divided into color-coded groups based on age. The Blue and Green groups participated in a decision-making exercise focusing on understanding boundaries and evaluating challenging choices. The younger Red and Yellow groups engaged in a separate activity involving dominoes that demonstrated cause and effect. The preschool-aged Purple Group had the special opportunity to partake in outdoor gymnastics.
Lunch was served, featuring yummy food provided by Red’s Barbecue & Grillery. Also during this time, the Arrows used tickets they had previously earned to shop at the Arrow Store. This is where they were reminded about important financial skills such as saving, understanding relative value, and how to negotiate. Assisting with their purchases and lesson was the Arrow Store clerk, Maggie Castro.
The event included a dodgeball session, led by Christine Rees, the For the Need Administrator. Notably, even the Executive Director, Dorina Timbol, and Founder, Myan Spaccarelli, participated, embodying the foundation’s core value of “Lead by Example.” Following the game, the Arrows were encouraged to reflect on their experiences and document what they learned.
The event concluded with a remarkable Rubik’s Cube demonstration by Matthew Mayernik, the founder of HappyFt Productions. Matthew solved a Rubik’s cube in just twelve seconds. In a brief statement, he challenged the Arrows to solve a Rubik’s cube before their next gathering. Accomplishing this goal would allow Arrows to earn additional tickets to be used at the next event.
For the Need Foundation extends its gratitude to its partners, including The Boys & Girls Club, CARSTAR Auto Body Repair, Red’s Barbecue & Grillery, HappyFt Productions, and the Rotary Clubs of Simi Valley, for their invaluable support.
