Video Shows VQ's New Student Ambassadors

By Cathy DeForest, Vision Quilt Founder
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Sometimes there is a moment when you realize the work you are doing matters. It is making a difference. You can see it, feel it, hear it in the voices of those around you. This is happening for me every time I walk into Lighthouse Community Charter School in Oakland, California.

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Eighth grade students at work on their Vision Quilt panels.

Over the past couple months, Vision Quilt has been working with 7th and 8th grade students and teachers at the school as they study gun violence. It is an extraordinary three-month expeditionary learning program, and Vision Quilt is honored to be a part of it.
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We are sharing the mission of Vision Quilt with these young students and we are working with them as they made their own panels. Many of these students are exposed to gun violence on a regular basis and to hear them talk about it is powerful and sobering.

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Amal shares her Vision Quilt panel in the video.

During the eighth grade workshops, some of the students agreed to talk with us on camera. With just iPhones and a small microphone we spent a few hours hearing their stories. 
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From these recordings, we now have an important story to share--one that can help us better understand the weight of living in fear of gun violence, but also help us realize that change is possible.
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It starts with young people who see a better way and will make it happen in their communities. We are so honored to call these students ambassadors for Vision Quilt. 

Spend a few minutes with Earl, Amal, Gerson, Malia and Carlos. Hear from one of our essential volunteers, Dr. Jane Hunter, a retired physician who clearly understands gun violence is a public health epidemic. And meet two outstanding teachers, Melanie and Athena, who are leading the way for the next generation. 

Watch Video Now. 

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Vision Quilt ambassadors at the exhibit.

If you are inspired by these students and their stories share this blog and video with friends and family across the country via email, Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.  Thank you!
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Please read our second blog about the Lighthouse student exhibition at a local gallery in Oakland, California. Their wonderful work with Vision Quilt was on display for friends, family and the community. ​​

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