“ The difference between school and life? In school, you’re taught a lesson and then given a test. In life, you’re given a test that teaches you a lesson.”
Tom Bodett, Author and Radio Host

On Saturday morning, November 8th, fifteen ULI Young Leaders volunteered to paint inspirational quotes throughout Burke Elementary School in Washington Park. The group was greeted by the energetic Principal, Jessica Biggs, and School Culture and Community Coordinator, Shaka Rawls, who provided an overview of the school and explained the importance of the project. This beautification project was meaningful to the school as they constantly strive to inspire their students to push themselves both personally and academically.

The school partnership was an outgrowth of a prior relationship that ULI had established with Burke Elementary as a result of a ULI Advisory Services Panel that took place in February of this year.  The school graciously hosted a public gathering and the public presentation for the panel in cooperation with ULI.

Following a busy morning of painting, several Young Leaders commented that this was a therapeutic activity that provided the opportunity to get to know other members on a more personal level. The group also enjoyed lunch at Currency Exchange Café, a former currency exchange that was recently redeveloped into a restaurant/coffee shop, providing the neighborhood with healthier food options and a safe community gathering place.

Hopefully this is just the beginning of a more long-term partnership with Burke Elementary. Stay tuned for details on another ULI Young Leader volunteer opportunity in Spring 2015.  See event photos