Naptown Sportz by Vince Alexander: Brightwood Is My "Hood"

By Vince Alexander

Vince

It’s back to school time. When I return to school, I’m sure some of my colleagues will be talking about their vacation trips to places like Florida, California, and New York.

If given a chance, I can’t wait to talk to them about my vacation spot: The Brightwood Community Center, Indianapolis, Indiana.

Forget all of that negative stuff about

Pastor Curry

Brightwood that you have read or heard about. After all, negative stuff happens at any major city the size of Indianapolis.

For a month, I worked and visited Brightwood, and I met some of the nicest people. I saw the best of Brightwood.

First, there’s Ms. Izera. I don’t think she has a mean bone in her body. Her smile is the magnet that pulls people together.

There’s Ms. LeRae. She treats every child—all 25 of them—like her own. She’s all about the children; if they need a band aid, a gum ball, or a sticker—she’s got it for them.

Ms. Izera

There’s Pastor Curry. He seems to have a calming effect on everyone, including the adults. Pastor Curry faithfully picks up each child and returns them safely home.

There’s Char. She is a bundle of energy, faithfully working the food and clothing pantry. She also helps to supply the kids with their breakfast, lunch and snacks.

Ms. LeRae (to the right)

There’s Allan, a hard-working counselor. Allan shows up bright and early and does whatever is asked of him. He helps carry stuff, he mops, he sweeps, he takes out the trash, and he works well with the children without complaining.

Lastly, there are the beautiful campers, ages 6 to 14. They were great, and supplied me with tons of great memories that I could not get from a sandy beach or a plush hotel. It reminds me that all kids are beautiful, but it’s the adults (teachers, parents, coaches) that can turn them from good to bad. So far, the 25 kids that I worked with are off to a great start, and I enjoyed working with them. It made for a great summer vacation.