< Full site
Navajo-Hopi Observer Mobile

NA Academy students pitch in to help community


Northern Arizona Academy students clean areas throughout Winslow May 4. Submitted photo
Youth works with Gang Task Force to beautify portions of Winslow

 7/3/2012 3:47:00 PM

 By Navajo-Hopi Observer

 WINSLOW, Ariz. - Students from Northern Arizona Academy (NAA) left their textbooks and computers behind on May 4 to get their hands dirty outside of school for a day. Students participated in a community-wide project spearheaded by the Gang Task Force with the long-term goal of cleaning up and beautifying portions of Winslow in an effort to increase economic development and the quality of life in our community.

Approximately 20 NAA students, along with four staff members, as well as other active community members, targeted an area in Coopertown for cleanup. Weeds were removed and trash was picked up in preparation for the sandblasting and painting that was to follow, in an effort to eradicate the graffiti found in the area.

NAA staff member Lita Gonzalez was the coordinator for the academy, and as a resident of Winslow she felt good about pitching in and doing her part. One of the positive outcomes of the day was, "seeing the kids take pride in themselves and their community."

Students also exhibited excitement and a sense of satisfaction after coming together for a day of hard work to make their town a better place to live. After the job was done, Detective Herb Carruthers of the Gang Task Force paid a visit to the academy to thank the students personally, and to express his gratitude for their efforts.

"It made me feel good because I like helping people. I like to work," said NAA student David Rosser.

Northern Arizona Academy can be reached at (928) 289-3329 and is always looking for other community service-projects in which to participate.


 

Navajo-Hopi Observer Home


< Full site