SYTA Youth Foundation

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SYF impacts 45 students/teachers from the STEPS Alternative Program?.

Friday, August 7, 2009

Dear SYF,

Throughout the eleven years teaching in the STEPS alternative program, one of my wishes was that someday we could go on a trip together. But of course, our program and kids could never afford to ever do this. Our program deals with Juniors and seniors who are at-risk of not graduating from high school ? But then they find STEPS and we work together to help them achieve the goal of graduating. Many of our students are socio-economically challenged. And then, out of the blue, Bob Hoffman called and told us that we would be going to Minneapolis for a three day educational trip! Wishes do come true!

Because we have never had an experience like this, I had no idea what to expect. I knew that our kids would be respectful, but honestly, what would the impact be on all of us? Well, the impact was amazing. The kids were so excited for each and every experience ? especially the play and the food stops. But as it turned out, the tour of the Twins Metrodome, the Walker Arts Center, the History Museum, and Fort Snelling ? Well, they were like little kids again as they took it all in.

A sincere and heartfelt thank you from we teachers and students. Working with all of you from our awesome host ? Mike, to Shelly with iternary, to John and Create-a-Video, Bob Hofmann and our numberouse conserations ? well, everyone was/is so professional, friendly, and wonderful! Thank you more than you can imagine is possible.

Sincerely,

Susan Henkemeyer, Tara Henkemeyer, Joyce Townsend, Beth Gadola, Scott, Vadnais, and Laurie Madoll (Teachers/Chaperones) and 45 grateful STEPS students.

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