Within the twelve years that I’ve worked with kids, I have had the opportunity to work for the Oakland Parks and Recreation Program, as a Recreational Specialist. I also had the chance to travel around the world and entertain kids using a comedic basketball routine. The most important experience I had while traveling was conducting clinics on how to steer clear from drugs and alcohol. I loved that message so much I started sharing it with all of the youth I know. I have been working at E.O.Y.D.C for six months and I have learned a lot of things that will be beneficial to me in the future. I learned that every child at the E.O.Y.D.C is a different individual and they have different characteristic traits, as well as mood swings. I‘ve learned how to interact and communicate with them which in turn allows them to feel more comfortable around me. I enjoy talking to them about school and what they did on the weekend and I usually get good feedback. The thing I like most is solving the children’s problems when they can’t play together peacefully. I sit them down and share with them a positive message on how everyone at the E.O.Y.D.C is like family. The Center is a great place and its positive environment keeps me coming back. Terrico Nicholson, Recreational Aide