Parent Leadership Class Teaches and Inspires

(From Neighborhood Leader, Winter 2009-2010 issue)

by Willette Crawford (PALTA Class 4)

I remember the first day of PALTA (Parents As Leaders Training Academy). It was an all-day retreat. On a Saturday, no less. The day for laundry, errands, kids. . . you know, life. I juggled my errands, secured childcare and made it to the church on time.

I can’t say I really knew what to expect. I had seen a flyer advertising the classes, and they seemed interesting. As the mother of a twice-gifted child, I often found myself speaking on his behalf at his school.  I thought I might learn how to better advocate for my son. 

Little did I know that I was beginning a journey that would take me places I had not thought of, and give sound to a voice I did not know I had.  

Parent Advocacy. What did it mean? Who would be there? Would it be worth it? 

There were over 20 participants in our class, and we came from neighborhoods all over greater Cleveland — West Park, Fairfax, Maple Heights and Tremont, just to name a few. We were men and women, young people, and seniors, professionals and stay-at-homes. It was definitely a cross- section of our city. It also reminded me of television’s USA Network—where characters are welcome! 

Over the next 16 weeks we learned about how our local, state, and national governments work. We learned how to speak properly in public, keeping our comments short and to the point, stating the concern and offering a solution. We worked together in groups on different issues, discovering that no matter where we lived, we all faced the same problems in our neighborhoods. 

We had several guest speakers, including Peter Lawson Jones, County Commissioner; and Yvonne Hunnicutt, Director of Operations and Policy Associate, from Voices for Ohio’s Children.

Being in these classes has helped me to realize how I most want to make a difference in my community, in my world. I have returned to college to complete a degree in social work. 

My desire is to work with teen girls and young single mothers in order to help break the cycle of teen pregnancy, which often leads to a life of single parenthood, struggle and poverty. I may not be able to change the whole world in this aspect, but for the ones I can assist, I’m convinced that it will change their world. 

I want to thank Don Slocum and his entire staff for a life-changing and affirming experience. The work you all do makes a big difference in the lives of those you touch.

To my class, I want to let you know that getting to know each of you and working with you has been and continues to be an honor and a privilege. Your passion for your cause is inspiring. Stand strong, stand tall. Remember your call.