"I wanted to continue with Play for Peace to have a ripple effect." - Former youth leader Bianca Garcia

We're finishing up our week of highlights from the Play for Peace blog archives with a post about a former youth leader, Bianca Garcia. Bianca remains a wonderful volunteer for Play for Peace, supporting our events and our work in Chicago. She sees herself as an example of the ripple effect of Play for Peace, wanting to share her positive experiences and lessons she learned with others. Here's a look back at Bianca's story:

The Ripple Effect of Play for Peace in Chicago

Isn't it a great thing to know that at times when everything seems dark and hopeless we can find respite and peace if only we connect with the right people and community? Bianca certainly knows how that feels.  In high school, Bianca’s life was filled with all too familiar turmoil.  Her parents were divorcing, she was getting into constant trouble at school and her grades were slipping.  She, at one time, was even on the verge of dropping out. Fortunately, she found a place that would help turn her life around in Play for Peace.  She joined halfway through her freshman year when she was intrigued by seeing a group of kids after school. A few of her friends were in the group but some thought they were just "too cool."

At first, Bianca felt the same that is until she met Chaun, a Play for Peace Mentor.  Chaun inspired her and took her under his wing.  He asked her questions and challenged her in ways that teachers didn't.  He made her see things from an entirely new and positive perspective, and on top of that, he made it fun!  "Play for Peace was a place where she could have fun, be her age, a place to guide her, and a place where people understand." Bianca, now in her 20s, has a goal to give back to other troubled or less fortunate kids exactly what was so freely given to her. Knowing how easy it is to lose one’s way and knowing that sometimes it only takes one person who cares to reach out and make a difference does make all the difference in the world.