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This blog post was written by Ulen Laland, Public Allies AmeriCorps Apprentice. Learn more about The Children's Museum's Community Initiatives in this blog post from Anthony Bridgeman.
My name is Ulen Laland and I am a Public Ally-AmeriCorps member currently working with The Children's Museum of Indianapolis. As I'm nearing the end of my apprenticeship, I’ve begun to reflect on the experiences and opportunities I’ve gained through this journey. I sometimes feel that my life is like a movie, with this experience making that movie both thrilling and adventurous. I find that every day holds a number of new surprises. In my time at The Children's Museum I’ve been fortunate to work with highly talented professionals, serve the community I call home, and build strong connections through networking.
I work alongside the Director of Community Initiatives, Anthony Bridgeman, who helps channel my passion for family and community fellowship. Through his department, I’m able to give back to the area I was born and raised in. I’m actively engaged with the Community Initiatives department, the After School Explorers program, and the Mid-North Quality of Life Plan. My job is to spread the word that The Children’s Museum provides an inclusive and welcoming environment for all families.
To promote our Access Pass, Foster Family, and Neighborhood Club programs, I’ve ventured out to Indianapolis area community centers, health clinics, elementary and middle schools, churches, convenience stores, laundromats and even fuel stations to reach an audience, who would benefit from these programs. Through this outreach I’m not only fulfilling the obligations of my apprenticeship, but my purpose for bettering my community.
It has been my experience that everything I devote my time to is interconnected. All the jobs I have held and all the organizations I have been involved with have been the building blocks of my life; fitting together and aligning past, present, and future. I’m appreciative of my mentors and fellow staff members for welcoming me into this environment and aiding me in my mission to bring families and communities together.
