“Chhh Mamacita!” A catcall like this is just one of the things discussed at a presentation to a group of about 20 parents and students of Henley Middle School and Western Albemarle High School heading to Guatemala at the end of June.
The presentation came about after concerned parents realized that they wanted to equip their children with more information about how to keep themselves safe during their upcoming trip. One call to SARA led to a conversation with Aaron Miller, Child/Adolescent Advocate at SARA, who, along with other SARA staff, gives presentations on a wide variety of topics, such as healthy relationships, boundaries, sexual harassment, SARA services and sexual assault. Aaron not only brought her experiences from SARA into this presentation, but as a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, serving 2 years in El Salvador, she had insight into the types of cultural differences the students might come into contact with while in Guatemala and also shared many of her colorful experiences while in El Salvador.
The presentation, which later became dubbed the “Henley/Guatemala safety presentation” covered basic safety that is useful at home and abroad, cultural awareness and specific tips to keep in mind while in Guatemala, and safety plan ideas to keep in mind. The discussion started out from simple reminders about traveling in groups and locking doors, to more specific topics such as machismo in Latin America, clothing tips, and how to carry money. Here is a glimpse into that conversation: “Sorry for all you guys in the group,” states Aaron, “but one tip I learned in El Salvador was to keep my money in my bra. It may sound stupid and you might feel ridiculous, but chances are you aren’t going to be the only one doing it. I saw many Salvadoran women pulling change purses, cell phones, etc. all out of their bras!” One mother in the group came up with a great alternative for all non-bra wearers – the travel wallet/bags that can be worn around the neck under a shirt.
The idea behind this presentation was not to be the final word in safety before going on the trip, but rather a way to get a dialogue rolling between students and parents. Several moms stated after the presentation that it helped them bring up other topics they had been concerned about with their kids before, maybe with a little less eye-rolling and a little more understanding after having it already come from an un-biased source. We wish all the students a safe and happy trip to Guatemala, and hope to hear about their many adventures when they return!
For more information on this and other possible presentation ideas, please contact SARA staff at info@saracville.org or (434)295-7273.
SARA Safety Presentation at Henley
“Chhh Mamacita!” A catcall like this is just one of the things discussed at a presentation to a group of about 20 parents and students of Henley Middle School and Western Albemarle High School heading to Guatemala at the end of June.
The presentation came about after concerned parents realized that they wanted to equip their children with more information about how to keep themselves safe during their upcoming trip. One call to SARA led to a conversation with Aaron Miller, Child/Adolescent Advocate at SARA, who, along with other SARA staff, gives presentations on a wide variety of topics, such as healthy relationships, boundaries, sexual harassment, SARA services and sexual assault. Aaron not only brought her experiences from SARA into this presentation, but as a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, serving 2 years in El Salvador, she had insight into the types of cultural differences the students might come into contact with while in Guatemala and also shared many of her colorful experiences while in El Salvador.
The presentation, which later became dubbed the “Henley/Guatemala safety presentation” covered basic safety that is useful at home and abroad, cultural awareness and specific tips to keep in mind while in Guatemala, and safety plan ideas to keep in mind. The discussion started out from simple reminders about traveling in groups and locking doors, to more specific topics such as machismo in Latin America, clothing tips, and how to carry money. Here is a glimpse into that conversation: “Sorry for all you guys in the group,” states Aaron, “but one tip I learned in El Salvador was to keep my money in my bra. It may sound stupid and you might feel ridiculous, but chances are you aren’t going to be the only one doing it. I saw many Salvadoran women pulling change purses, cell phones, etc. all out of their bras!” One mother in the group came up with a great alternative for all non-bra wearers – the travel wallet/bags that can be worn around the neck under a shirt.
The idea behind this presentation was not to be the final word in safety before going on the trip, but rather a way to get a dialogue rolling between students and parents. Several moms stated after the presentation that it helped them bring up other topics they had been concerned about with their kids before, maybe with a little less eye-rolling and a little more understanding after having it already come from an un-biased source. We wish all the students a safe and happy trip to Guatemala, and hope to hear about their many adventures when they return!
For more information on this and other possible presentation ideas, please contact SARA staff at info@saracville.org or (434)295-7273.