OH WOW, I am not sure where to even begin with the description of the first Butte Parent Café. To say that it was amazing to see the culmination of months of hard work, determination and passion displayed that first night, does not do it justice. With the Parent Café a day away, Shauna and I spent Thursday doing a mock run of the Parent Café. With the Butterflies and the anticipation at a high, there were many pep talks and realizations that we did our best to present the Parent Café as it should be. With the numbers counted and the reservations all set, there was still that little twinge of doubt. We are all human and wanted the confirmation of the work and the feedback we have been getting. Little did we know how much of an impact and reception that we would have.
The event started with the set-up at Marigold Elementary School around 4pm. The facilities were the right size and there was more than enough space. We could not have been happier with what Marigold Elementary school had to offer. The dinner arrived during set-up and made the concentration a little harder. It is not always the easiest task trying to work with fresh hot Panighetti’s siting a few feet away. With Great help from Gloria, and my youngest child Mr. Devin, the set-up went great.
With every first there are always aspects that can be done a little different or pieces that need a little more attention. To be honest about the process and the evening, we are no different. The participants arrived shortly before 5:30 and were ready for a great evening. I originally was on the fence about how much food that we would need, Shauna was adamant that we would need more. Thankfully I listened to her. The food was amazing and the participants were well fed. With 56 confirmed adults and 66 confirmed children, the food went fast.
The event started and I was amazed at how awesome the flow of the night went. I know there were people that were not sure of how everything would go. I noticed that people quickly let down the guard and were in the moment participating in the process of the Parent Café. The Parent Café is all about the people and the participation. I was energized by various quotes that I heard ex “I will see you next month” was one from a male participant. Another quote that I received from our evaluation form was “It was awesome and the hosts were amazing”. Another quote from a participant was “It was awesome and I really appreciated it”. This Butte Parent Café program seems to fit what this community is looking for. It is a break from the general class or counseling session. The Parent Café focuses on the community led participation, the key ingredient.
Thank you very much Chico, we are excited to see you tomorrow Oroville. Set the date everyone. October 4, 2013 from 5:30-8pm at Emma Wilson Elementary school will be the next Chico Parent Café.