Connections in Action at Summer University

This past summer, Connections returned to the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle’s Summer University program for its third year as one of eight tracks offered.

Fifteen students joined the Connections track for activities designed to help them get to know one another across grades, schools and backgrounds.

Summer University gave them six weeks together; Connections gave them a regular time to build friendships, practice teamwork, and make sure everyone could take part.

Each week included a group session and a local field trip.

Students played games, were creative together, and explored community spaces including the Northwest African American Museum, Frye Art Museum, Pratt Fine Arts Center, Wing Luke Museum and an onsite Graffiti Art chalk mural.

Three experienced Connections Crew members earned their program service hours planning and co-facilitating the sessions with support from Youth Engagement Coordinator Amber Inwood. The summer format drew on the Connections curriculum while giving students room to connect through shared experiences.

Amber and other staff witnessed those relationships extend beyond the Connections track sessions.

Students began spending time together during lunch and other parts of Summer University, and she has since seen some of them reconnect in school hallways. Two summer participants had joined a Connections Crew by September, while others had applied.

Their experiences offer an encouraging picture of what can happen when students have time, support, and opportunities to welcome one another.