When one of our community partners experienced significant budget cuts that threatened the Greene County Housing Authority’s summer enrichment program in Eutaw, ALRI and Oakwood University stepped in to support it.
Compared to other Alabama counties, Greene County ranks last on nine indicators of child well-being. Factors such as poverty, high school dropout rates, and juvenile violent crime are linked to rising mental health challenges among African American youth in rural Alabama. Greene County exceeds the state average on most of these indicators, signaling a critical need for intervention. Summer enrichment programs provide a powerful opportunity to engage youth, offer educational and emotional support, and plant seeds for long-term positive change.
Carlos Segura: A Journey of Growth, Connection, and Resilience
Oakwood University StudentCarlos entered the program unsure of how to connect with younger children in a second language, but quickly learned to adapt and simplify his approach. Despite language barriers, behavioral challenges, and moments of discouragement, he built strong bonds with the children through patience, flexibility, and compassion. By the end, he felt deeply connected to the youth and grateful for how much both he and the children had grown.
Selected Quote: “This summer reminded me that impact doesn’t always come through perfectly executed plans, but through persistence, love, and the small, joyful connections we build along the way.”
Isaac Abrahams: Learning Through Service
Oakwood University StudentIsaac’s experience showed him that community work goes beyond just being present—it requires listening, humility, and consistent effort. Teaching pushed him to grow in confidence, creativity, and communication. He left the program more aware of the strengths within underserved communities and committed to a vision of service rooted in trust and respect.
Selected Quote: “Service isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being committed.”
Darius Mixon: The Importance of Structure, Support, and Awareness
Tuskegee University StudentDarius observed the deep need for structure and emotional support among the children, many of whom displayed behavioral challenges tied to anger and peer pressure. He highlighted the effects of social media, bullying, and lack of parental involvement. He stressed the importance of consistent adult support, emotional awareness, and the critical need for parent and counselor engagement.
Selected Quote: “It’s clear that kids want structure and support, even if they don’t show it right away.”
Addison Hudnall: Building Trust Through Empathy and Respect
The University of Alabama StudentWhen Addison arrived at Branch Heights, she encountered children who were hesitant to trust and largely kept to their siblings or close relatives. Many resisted forming new connections, and a few boys struggled with anger and emotional regulation. Addison met these challenges with steady empathy, kindness, and respectful communication, aiming to model the behavior she hoped to cultivate. Over the course of the program, she witnessed real changes—children began showing more kindness to each other, forming new friendships, and expressing respect. Post-program surveys reflected this growth, with many children sharing that they had learned to be kind and respectful.
Selected Quote: “When placed in an environment with structure, empathy, and respect, these kids show us just how amazing they truly are.”