A break from school didn’t mean a break from learning for the kids at Mercy Home! Their week of Spring Break was filled with activities every day, including a trip to Brookfield Zoo, a visit with a federal judge, a dinner with former resident and current board member Eddie Gamble, and more.

One exciting and educational trip for the kids took place when they traveled to TransUnion to do some internship prep. There, our young men and women were able to practice their job skills on-site at a real corporate office. They heard from TransUnion employees about the value of working hard and persisting even when it is difficult. The kids also got to practice some real life “first day of work items” like being transported there by CTA, checking in with security/reception, and going through an HR orientation tour.

The next day, some of our kids visited Elmhurst College and met with Roger Moreno of the Intercultural Studies office. Moreno spoke in depth about the value of each person as an individual, with the need to respect and learn about each other’s culture, identity, talents, and passions. The kids also got to get a little active by participating in a dance class!

The kids also took a trip to DuSable Museum in Hyde Park on Chicago’s South Side. Our kids took a tour and explored the rich cultural and artistic contributions that Africans have made all throughout the world, from Mansa Musa in the 14th Century to Barrack Obama in the 21st Century. Our kids really enjoyed learning more about so many influential people.

We are thankful to everyone who welcomed our kids and made their Spring Break a memorable one!