Testimonials 

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"AHHAH is a consistent, caring, and a transforming power that brings HOPE to our youth.  AHHAH serves all Chester County Youth Center youth programs with the most kind and compassionate staff.  We can’t imagine CCYC without AHHAH!” -Carrie Avery, program director of Chester County Youth Center

 

"This class today helped me share some things about my life that I never really expressed to anyone."

-CCYC Detention (teen participant)

 

 

"Jan, our children need more advocates like you and the members of AHHAH. You have committed to an ambitious endeavor. I hope other organizations will PULL TOGETHER and  join your movement." -Joyce Reeves , President of the Board of Directors of Bridge of Hope 

 

 

 

  Yoga

 

 "I get a lot from yoga. I get: 1. Relaxation 2. More energy 3. Strength... I feel a lot better after yoga. I feel full. I feel brand new!"

-CCYC Shelter for Girls (teen participant)

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"I come to yoga because it helps me calm my mind."

-CCYC Detention (teen participant)

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"Yoga makes me feel relaxed and calm. It gives me awareness of my body. I enjoy taking the time out of everyday fast-paced activity, and slowing my pace and attention."

-CCYC Shelter Staff

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"Before I come to yoga, I'm sad, irritated, depressed, and annoyed. After yoga I'm a little bit happy, calmed. I feel good."

-CCYC Shelter for Girls (teen participant)

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"I come to yoga for the physical well-being of my soul. as we grow older we seem to somewhat fall apart. Not only physically but also mentally. I feel like yoga gives me a sense of well-being. Giving me back some of what I feel like I am losing as I progress in life. I always wanted to practice yoga. Never found the time. I am so grateful to have found this class at a time when I felt my life was so off-centered. I feel like some of my youthful self is...somehow being restored. My instructor seems to be a God given strength and I plan to continue coming as often as it is offered. It is not often in our community you find this level of physical and mental stability in one art. Again, thank you." 

 -Women's Gentle Yoga participant 

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"I like to think of this process as a dynamic learning experience not only for the students but for the teachers, as we spend time with the students, being 'with them' and 'for them,' we are not only learning about what they need from us, but learning about humanity, mindfulness, kindness, and presence. They are teaching us how to be better in the world. We owe them a huge depth of gratitude" 

-After School Yoga Co-Facilitator

 

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Expressive Arts

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“I got to look at what I need to do to stay out of trouble is what I got out of this workshop” –Richie 16
 

“Something that stood out to me is the way we respected each other and didn’t judge one another” –R.J. 16
 

“Something I got out of the workshop is remembering who I am and my purpose” –Michael 18
 

“One thing I got out of this workshop was what my main values are” –Jared 18

 

"I liked that I got to be open, relieve my stress and forgive myself for my past and move through this road block.  I honestly feel like you should do more of these workshops so kids that are really down can somewhat stand back up." -Detention Participant 

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"I liked the workshop.  Makes you realize I have a lot in common with people."-Detention Participant 

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" Writing is powerful, but putting your thoughts and feelings on paper is courageous"-Detention Participant 

 

 

"The staff were very enthusiastic and kind. They were patient and made me feel safe. I felt that I could open up about stuff that was pretty ugly and still not be judge(d). I feel happy and satisfied." 

-CCYC Shelter for Girls (teen participant)

 

 

 "I like... that now I know life isn't over there is always bumps in the road"

-CCYC Shelter for Girls (teen participant)

 

 

"Jan, Bri, and Caitlin are very ambitious, spirited, and loving. I really love them and they give me the courage to allow myself to share my past. I really love and cherish the moments that we have in writing and it gives me the joy and pleasure to stand around all of these strong women and hear each others' writing."

-CCYC Shelter for Girls (teen participant)

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Staff Development Workshops

 

"All (CCYC) staff need AHHAH training. This is seriously needed for everyone. Opens peoples minds to be more productive. All staff- admins, medical, teachers, UNIVERSAL."

-CCYC Evening Report Center Supervisor