What would a 14 year old do with a day off school? Participate in a community roundtable discussion on reducing poverty, of course. With a break between classes and exams, my daughter chose to accompany me to the Esplanade to learn more about poverty in our city. Active in the hot supper program through the Salvation Army, she already sees the social as well as economic barriers to employment first hand.

Leona's plan to go and just listen changed quickly as she chose a table discussing access to recreation for children and youth. By the end of the day, she stood to give a table summary on the poverty matrix to the entire group.

As we exited, Joe Ceci said, "It was nice to meet you Leona, and mother of Leona." I can't think of a better title to be remembered by.

My daughter, who has educational accommodations because participating in group work is difficult, remarked on the way home, "It is easy to chit chat when the topic is interesting."

She felt welcomed and valued. She provided value by risking participation. We spent the day together. I call that shared value.

Enjoy a guest pass, available only here, to pictures from the day.

http://flickr.com/gp/spectrumes/95N2Q9/