December Academic Support Highlights in The Avenue
This December, Fuse Project wrapped up a year of impactful community initiatives with exciting Academic Support activities across the Avenue. From engaging clubs to creative collaborations, the month was filled with opportunities for students to learn, grow, and celebrate their accomplishments.
Growing Knowledge in the Garden
In partnership with Mobile Arts Council through their Amp Up Arts education programming, we connected with Mobile Urban Growers, Patricia Hall and Carol Dorsey, to facilitate Garden Club at Florence Howard Elementary School. This club meeting was a hands-on adventure. Students rotated through stations to learn about the water cycle, photosynthesis, and the importance of sunlight, soil, and seeds. They got their hands dirty preparing raised beds, adding soil and fertilizer, and planting for the future. This immersive experience gave students a deeper understanding of garden care, including watering, weeding, and feeding. A special thanks to volunteers Layton Little, Abbey Hughley, John Hendren, Kimberly Williams Pettway, and Mary Frances Clarke for helping make this lesson possible!
Creativity in Art Club
Our partnership with Mobile Arts Council and Amp Up Arts also connected us with local artist, Brian Tan. This meeting of Art Club, guided by Brian, explored the festive spirit with Christmas doodle ornaments. While students were hesitant at first, their creativity blossomed as their ornaments came to life with vibrant designs and googly eyes. Ann-Brooks Morrissette and Order of Fuse member Madison Wright were on hand to support this imaginative session.
Finding Balance in Yoga
Tiffany Pogue led Yoga Club with help from volunteer Whitney Newman, teaching students valuable breathing exercises, mindfulness, and physical techniques to improve balance, strength, and focus. Yoga offers critical benefits to kids by enhancing emotional regulation, reducing stress, and building self-awareness—skills that empower students far beyond the classroom.
Sweet Lessons in Cooking Club
The Cookery Project returned to Cooking Club with a holiday-themed peppermint cheesecake dip. This activity emphasized the importance of moderation and how ingredients like vanilla are great in small doses but not so pleasant alone. Volunteers Anna Cowart and Margaret Carey ensured students enjoyed this fun and tasty learning experience.
After-School Art at Calloway-Smith
At Calloway-Smith Middle School, students worked with real clay to create Christmas ornaments. Each student selected three colors and let their imaginations run wild, shaping clay warmed by their hands into unique designs. Volunteers Ann Cortopassi and Erin Delaporte were instrumental in bringing this creative activity to life.
A Heart of Service in Kindergarten
The youngest students at FHES had a special day thanks to a group of UMS-Wright 5th-grade boys and their moms. Instead of having a traditional Christmas party, these UMS students helped put together a personalized foam ornament craft with the kindergarteners featuring each FHES student’s photo. They also donated playground supplies and fulfilled the FHES School Store wish list, part of the ABC Program's student incentives. This collaboration highlighted the importance of community service, creating bonds we hope will grow into lasting friendships.
Celebrating Progress at Calloway-Smith
Fuse Project joined Calloway-Smith Middle School to celebrate student growth with a fun snow cone and pizza incentive event. Students who improved their iReady diagnostic test scores in reading or math were recognized. While we didn’t fund this initiative, we were proud to help serve alongside the school staff and cheer on the students' progress. Thank you to volunteers John Hendren, Layton Little, Symone French, Anna Cowart, Mary Frances Clarke, and Maggie Robertson.
Thank You to Our Volunteers
None of these successes would be possible without the incredible dedication of our volunteers. A heartfelt thanks to Layton, Abbey, John, Kim, Ann-Brooks, Madison, Whitney, Anna, Margaret, Ann, Erin, Symone, Mary Frances, Maggie, and our UMS-Wright partners. Your support enriches every program and ensures that students in the Avenue have opportunities to thrive.
Join Us in Making an Impact
December reminded us of the power of community, creativity, and perseverance. As we look ahead to the new year, we invite you to join us in providing meaningful opportunities for students in the Avenue. Donate or volunteer today to help us continue lighting the path to success for children in our community!
