First Teen Leader Reunion held at House of Peace

January 3, 2008

It was a cold night, but some very hearty Teen Leaders returned to the House of Peace to share stories and tour the new building.

We gathered in the new multi-purpose room as pictures of past and present Teen Leaders were projected on the wall. Miss Shirley knew everyone who came through the door, and many of them begged her not to tell too many stories about what they were like as children, coming up through the program. Many teen leaders in the past grew up in the House of Peace, as children in the summer program, which was ended in 2001. 

After some introductions, we prayed, ate a home-cooked meal prepared by Miss Shirley, and went on a tour of the newly renovated House of Peace. The teen leaders from the past were amazed at the changes in the building. “I wish I had seen it before!” was a common comment made by first-year teen leaders, who had never known the building any other way.

After the tour, we heard some testimony about how being a Teen Leader changed their lives. Each Teen Leader who spoke invited the next one to speak.

The Impact of the House of Peace

Here are some of the ways the House of Peace affected the Teen Leaders:

Being a teen leader and conducting the “Hope Is Something You Do” workshop has helped me be more peaceful and calm in hostile situations.  I also gained a lot of confidence and leadership, that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

-- Sarah Muwonge (HS class of 2007)

The House of Peace played a large role in my life because I made a lot of food friends and learned many important lessons.  I remember the methods that I taught many middle school youth and try to practice what I taught. I believe that I had an impact on them, and in turn, teaching them had an impact on me.

-- Royce Taylor (HS class of 2007)

I’m not shy any more. I know how to handle myself in situations.

-- Krystina Howard (HS class of 2005)

I’m very vocal. Being a teen leader opened many doors for me regarding different opportunities for high school and college.  I became a great mediator. I enjoyed meeting different directors and understanding all the operations of the House of Peace.

-- Deidre Steward (HS class of 2003)

Being a teen leader has given me great patience. I had experiences as a leader, with everyone listening to what I had to say.  Leadership has shown me that doing little things can bring about big changes.

-- Reggie Bell (HS class of 2009)

Throughout my time as a teen leader, I have evolved as a better leader, scholar, and person. Because of the House of Peace, I am now more comfortable speaking in front of crowds and am unafraid of taking leadership roles.  The House of Peace has had a great impact on my life, and listing House of Peace also always looks on my resume!

-- Lindsay Jungers (HS class of 2007)

Being a former teen leader, of the House of Peace has changed my life tremendously. I strive to be the best in whatever crosses my path. I find myself being a leader in all situations I meet.

-- Tiffaney Davis (HS class of 1993)

The House of Peace has reinforced in me core values; it instilled within me the goals that keep me focused.

-- Chandar Roberson (HS class of 1993)

The House of Peace Teen Leadership program is like a family that embraces one another and leaves warm feelings, like a home away from home. It has prepared me for my future in the outside world.  It allowed me to realize that someone really cared about me and my education. The leadership program was a stepping stone to my success. 

-- Starr Robertson (HS class of 2000)

Being a Teen Leader has played an important role in shaping my attitude toward the world.

-- Maurice Sharpe (HS class of 2008)

Memories

Past and current Teen Leaders shared memories of their experiences. The more recent graduates were surprised to hear that Teen Leaders from long ago came every single Saturday (not only once a month), and they were required to lead the summer program, which consisted of teaching classes to younger children and going on a trip. The older Teen Leaders were surprised to hear that the program now provides stipends as well as high school tuition scholarships.

Here are a few memories that were recorded:

I remember our trip to Canada and how we got detained. We also got a chance to visit Niagra Falls. -- Chandar Roberson (HS class of 1993)

My strongest memory was tutoring the younger students, especially in Math and English.

-- Tiffaney Davis (HS class of 1993)

All of the trips, Detroit, St. Louis, Washington, DC… making lesson plans for the weeks of the summer program… Miss Shirley’s home cooking… the Peace sign – trying to get the kids quiet and how it would never work!… Hot, bright colored T-shirts from the summer program… friendships… being the pioneers for “Hope Is Something You Do.”

-- Deidre Steward (HS class of 2003)

I remember when I had the change to lead our monthly meeting. It was a great experience where I was able to step in the shoes of Ralph and Lisa. This experience gave me great gratitude for what they do every day for us.  -- Reggie Bell (HS class of 2009)                  

Trip to Washington, DC… Weekend retreats… making lesson plans for 8 year olds… Miss Shirley’s cooking… Lifelong friendships…Lisa stretching our imaginations… Ralph bringing us back cross necklaces from Haiti. -- Krystina Howard (HS class of 2005)

I remember our first workshop. I think I looked over the notes too much and got too nervous.  But after that workshop, I felt more confident. -- Royce Taylor (HS class of 2007)

I remember leading a section of the Blue pages of the workshop, “Hope is Something You Do.”  I skipped about two or three points.  At first, I didn’t think it would be a big deal until I realized that I messed up the entire workshop! Eventually we got back on schedule, but I was so embarrassed! -- Sarah Muwonge (HS class of 2007)

I remember the children. They were so energetic and active. I’m glad to have had the experience and learned a lot about making decisions. -- Jennifer Ball-Sharpe (class of 2001)

I remember my first Pebbles experience and being so nervous to lead a table on my own.  I remember the impact that day had on me and on everyone that attended… realizing that so many people want to promote peace.  It was a great day and a great event, and they only got better as the years went by! -- Lindsay Jungers (HS class of 2007)

My memory as a Teen Leader is when I first go to meet the other teen leaders at the retreat. I had a great time. I enjoyed being accepted by the other teen leaders and becoming a Capuchin partner. -- Aqueelah Atandare-Jones (HS class of 2010)

One memory I have is my first workshop.  It was a good experience because it was the first time I actually performed or acted in front of people. -- Marquis Boston (HS class of 2008)

I remember my first retreat. All the guys stayed up late talking and laughing. It was hard to wake up the next morning. -- Arthur Cameron (HS class of 2010)

Contact us for more information.