|
After transitioning from homelessness to sharing a home with his mother, five-year-old William joined BRIEF's Lego Robotics Class. Although William had never experienced the relationship of a male role model in his life, he quickly found comfort in one of our male teachers, Mac.
By showing kindness and patience, Mac was able to foster William's growth in the very first class. Mac gave William one of the greatest gifts: his time. As he held William and sat with him as he started his project, it was apparent that the love and excitement for problem-solving that BRIEF fosters in each child was already blooming.
Even after Mac diverted to help another child, William continued to work on his project so that he could show "Big Boy" (his nickname for Mac) when he came back. “Big Boy” is so much more than a nickname. It exemplifies William’s respect for him as an adult yet, at the same time, shows his trust in Mac and their newfound friendship.
Our mission at BRIEF goes beyond technology—kids who have experienced trauma must believe they are loved. Mac was able to help William conquer his fear with love. BRIEF's goals don't just include advancing our students' technological literacy but also teaching them skills that can change the trajectory of their lives.
In William's case, he learned just how fun learning can be, and when students have fun, they look forward to the future. Helping a kid push forward to conquer apprehension about a challenge has a lasting effect on their ability to conquer other challenges.
William is still thriving in his classes at BRIEF and has been able to keep making progress both in the classroom and outside of it.
| 
