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MAINE
COMMUNITY FOUNDATION [Community
Highlights] [Success Stories] [Press
Release] [Survey
Highlights] Third Grade Quilters Build Social Capital in the Classroom Carol Celani's third grade class at the Fairview Elementary school in Auburn, ME is strengthening community ties - and building social capital -- through their heirloom quilting project. Through the study of quilt making, interviews with members of the community, tours of local textile mills, and learning about the quilting process, these students have a unique opportunity to look back into their community's heritage and history. The students are stepping back in time to learn about the early settlement, development of the mills, the ties to their sister city in Lewiston, and role that the textile industry played in the social, economic, and political development of these communities. The community is an active participant in the project. The local chapter of Quilters of America is speaking to the children about the task of quilting. Older citizens are sharing their personal stories about work in the textile mills back when the mills were by far the largest employer. A field trip to one of the mills will provide the children with an opportunity to see the tools used to make heirlooms. The local arts community is helping connect these students to children of similar ages many of whom worked in these mills at the turn of the century through their photo museum. Parents of the students are volunteering as chaperones, storytellers and quilters. The local newspaper is documenting the involvement of the students learning. For More Information Community Rallies to Achieve Excellence LA Excels is a community-based group committed to achieving the highest standard of excellence for the community. On May 1999, more than 250 residents of the twin cities participated in a "Community Conversation" about their future. Volunteers served as discussion group leaders. Transportation and childcare were provided to ensure broad community participation. The community identified six areas for further work: educational aspirations, economic vitalization and continued development, community leadership building, culture and diversity, family issues, and the environment and quality of life. Since then, six working groups have developed project ideas including:
All of the ideas build on the strengths of Lewiston Auburn, and the willingness of the communities to work together and address areas that need change. Recognizing that youth are an important part of their community, LA Excels hosted a youth convention where more than 200 youth met to discuss issues they believe will make their cities healthier places to live. The youth group is currently working on two projects: a joint youth city council and a youth concert production company. For More Information
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