It all began with a simple conversation about swimming lessons. Then, the conversation progressed to water in general, and then the navy and coast guard. Of course, the logical sequence of events would lead to a discussion about scuba diving...Scuba diving?
Well, it's really not a stretch, considering the fact that Jim Adams, CEO of Family Support Services (FSS), was a participant in this conversation and a certified scuba diver to boot. Since FSS serves as the lead agency for adoption and foster care in Duval and Nassau counties, they saw the need for improvement for its youth transitioning out of foster care. Will these teenagers be adequately prepared to confront society once they become an adult?
But scuba diving? Adams evidently relayed the benefits quite well to the group. You see, scuba diving isn't just about putting on a mask, fins, and harnessing an air tank to your back and mouth. It's about a skill that takes more than one person to learn in order to be successful. It's about providing these youth with an opportunity of a lifetime, one that allows them to dream, pursue something new, have a positive group experience, and to learn a skill that could help them for the rest of their lives.
But scuba diving? Sure it's cool and definitely an out-of-the-box concept, but is it appropriate and applicable? FSS Director of Family Services Sarah Markman is convinced that it is. 'We're trying to incorporate team-building from a therapeutic angle to include educational pieces such as health, nutrition, budgeting, time-management, good study habits, and proper choices. Social, interpersonal and life skills are learned, as well as trusting others and increasing self-confidence. They'll have an opportunity and the exposure they may never have considered to be an option."
Mentoring with positive influences and role-modeling will be facilitated by several instructors. Chef Jessica will teach independent living meal preparation. The owner of the Conch House Key West will give them a tour and tell them what it's like to work in the restaurant business. A professor will teach them marine biology and the importance or respecting the ocean and its elements, to name a few.
Markman said, 'FSS is facing drastic budget cuts to the independent living program. We're trying to prepare them for a successful transition into adulthood. These kids have experienced a lot of loss. Programs like this gives them new inspiration of what they could become. They're our tomorrow. As a result, we need to wrap our arms around these youth and programs.'
But scuba diving? You betcha!
Comments
Wonder if the scuba team ever went to Flamingo Lake RV Park to dive? The group that we saw last year seemed to enjoy themselves. The children are blessed to experience this. It's a chance that many people will never have. There are many children and adults who have never left the city that they were born in, nor tried something new, sharred knowledge, and these children did. It is a great way to be able to communicate to and with others.
Great post Sherrie
Thank you, Mrs. "V". I'm very excited for these children. To have such an opportunity is phenomenal.
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