Project Presentation

Hey all,

Michelle here. I have a story and funny video I would like to share with you all. Part of my VISTA project is working with The Computer Training Bridge here in Winston-Salem, NC. It is a network of free computer classes taught all over the city by volunteer computer coaches. Several months ago one of the coaches asked me to come and speak at his monthly luncheon for retired pastors and their wives. I'd told the coaches about One Economy and AmeriCorps VISTA and my project, and he wanted me to share all of that with his group. I was nervous, but it was such an honor to be asked that I had to say yes. At the time I didn't have much to say about my project aside from my work on the Mobile Tax Project, which although important, had never really felt like my own. Since then I've worked on the Teen Computer Advisors and taught video game design classes at several locations around the city, all the time developing important community partnerships for the CTB and OE. When I presented on Wednesday it felt like the senior project presentation I'd had to give in college. I was just as nervous talking about something that I'd spent a year working on, something that I might even refer to as my baby, but I was no where near as shy. It's amazing how this year has brought me even farther out of my shell and made me comfortable speaking in front of a crowd of strangers.
The group was really responsive and kind. All having devoted their lives to service, they were excited to meet a young person wanting to do the same. I made sure to tell them that it's never too late for them to get involved again. VISTA has no upper age limit, and I talked a bit about the Senior Corps, for volunteers 55 and up. If you haven't heard of it you should check it out. Maybe you know someone who would be interested.
Anyway, my volunteer coach was kind enough to take a few minutes video of my presentation. It's pretty funny. Note how much I talk with my hands, and the part where he gets a call and sets the camera down while it's still recording...priceless. In his defense, it was his first time using a flip camera, as you can see from the beginning.
I'm glad I had the opportunity to present about my project. Now that I have a month left, I've been looking for ways to develop a sense of closure, and I think this is a big help. No matter how far you are into your year, it helps to get a little perspective.

Thanks all! Have a great day!
Michelle Brasseur
Winston-Salem NC

Had trouble uploading here. Check it out on Youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbgXM4L3w0I