Have you wondered what our ’20-’21 virtually hosted, ECA Programs students (YES/FLEX) are up to?
The Sponsored Programs Advisory Group (SPAG), a national volunteer group providing input and guidance to the Sponsored Programs Department, has come together to organize a series of engagement opportunities for all AFS-USA volunteers.
To kick off these activities, please Zoom in with the SPAG for a conversation with AFS volunteer Bob Boyce and Dreamland Arts actor Leslye Orr, this Saturday, January 23 at 3pm ET to explore an activity ECA Programs students recently participated in.
What Virtual Programming is Happening?
This academic year, the ECA students (YES and FLEX) funded by the U.S. Department of State are continuing with the program virtually from their home countries, with AFS-USA host family matches, and required enhancement activities that students would typically attend in person with their area team cluster. AFS Sponsored Programs staff and AFS-USA volunteers have guided the virtually hosted students through educational online activities focusing on a variety of ECA outlined topics such as government, culture, native American traditions and more. Recently, the YES and FLEX cohort participated in “Hand in Hand”, an interactive disability awareness experience to “see” through touch, and the mind’s eye. ‘Hand in Hand’ was adapted for video from a stage play to radio drama with tactile elements conceived and performed by Leslye Orr of Dreamland Arts.
Experience “Hand in Hand” for Yourself
“Hand in Hand” is about Helen Keller, who was Deaf-Blind, and her teacher Anne Sullivan, who was “half blind” (legally blind). So, for this disability awareness experience, you will be asked to close your eyes and use your heightened, other senses, to “see” through the touch of your hands, and your mind’s eye.”
- Please register here to join the discussion on Saturday, January 23rd, 3pm ET:
https://afsusa.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJUvf–prD8oH9ALJt_n_9jOeGbiZrneJ7-D
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. For help with event registration contact: mkeating@afsusa.org
- Watch the performance before the discussion
Follow this link to the Hand in Hand video. (Password: water is valid until the 23rd)
For more details about this activity, please contact: Bob Boyce robert.boyce@afsusa.org