“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.”
Theodore Roosevelt
news
COVID-19
Effective immediately, to protect all concerned, all AOK staff and youth attending AOK After School and Nathan’s Place will be required to wear a mask when social distancing is not possible. For questions please contact Jerod, Zach, or Kelsi at one of the buildings.
Announcement
The holidays are upon us, and we at AOK are doing our best to give more than ever. For the past eight months, AOK has prepared and delivered nightly meals to local youth in need. We are currently serving more than 130 meals each day, Monday–Friday. Please, if you know of any youth that could use a nightly meal, please contact Jerod to get you set up.
If you are interested in giving yourself, AOK is a great place to help out. We are currently receiving, accepting, and looking for Christmas donations for some of our youth that need help to ensure they have a merry Christmas. If you are interested in helping us out any time of year please contact Jerod or call or text 417.682.6002. We sincerely thank all who support us during this difficult time.
Elf on a Shelf is busy keeping an eye on the kids at the Wolf Building. His name is Bernard, and he has been with us since December 1st. He has been caught eating johnnycakes, rooting for the Tigers, and receiving and sending mail to the kids. Stay tuned for future updates on what Bernard is up to at AOK.
Drug-Free Message of the Week
With Christmas and the New Year just around the corner, data shows that holidays can be stressful, difficult, and even dangerous, especially for drug, alcohol, and substance misuse. It's important to be aware of the triggers and strategies needed to keep anxiety, depression, stress, and addiction under control to enjoy a safe and happy holiday.
If it all gets to be too much, don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help. For local resources and assistance, visit aokyouth.org/rcc-project.
SPECIAL EVENTS
No special events this week.
THE WOLF BUILDING
Karma
the positive or negative consequences of a person's actions and conduct, regarded as causally influencing their destinyKettle Corn
Each building will participate in an activity that involves sampling of kettle corn, along with an educational piece.
NATHAN’S PLACE
Last week, the VolunTeens created their own ornaments made out of salt dough. This week, they will be designing and painting them with acrylic paint.
Continuing with celebrating National Pear Month, we will be making Baked Pears with Oat Streusel Topping.
Try out the Salt Dough recipe!
OR Try out the Baked Pears recipe!
Zach Morey
Programs Director
ABOUT OUR KIDS, INC.