Fresh Air Fund families reap benefits of giving
COMMUNITY
BY SAM TOOLE INDEPENDENT INTERN
Each summer thousands of children from disadvantaged communities visit host families in 13 northeastern states and Canada with the Fresh Air Fund's Friendly Town Program. The program provides inner-city children with the chance to experience life beyond the skyscrapers and confined spaces that they are used to. This summer, six Nantucket families will give a child from the inner-city the chance to throw off his or her shoes and run through the sand.

COURTESY OF SUSAN TRUDEL Naya, with Zander Trudel

Susan and John Trudel, along with their two sons Jackie and Zander, have been hosting a child through the Friendly Town Program since 2004. This summer they will be welcoming back Naya, a ten-year-old girl from Brooklyn for her third summer with them. They have grown to look forward to her visits.

The Trudels first learned of the program through flyers at the elementary school, and Susan decided it would be a good opportunity not only to help someone but also to show her own children the everyday opportunities they are given. "It's a lesson for the kids in giving back," she said. "We live in a very privileged community and I wanted them to realize what it was like for kids less fortunate."

It has grown into much more than that. Naya has almost become part of the family and keeps in touch with the Trudels year-round. She constantly thinks about her trips and often writes about the many different experiences she has had on Nantucket. For the Trudels, they are no longer hosting a child; they are welcoming a friend into their home.

Over the years Susan Trudel has learned that during Naya's visits it is not necessary to do anything out of the ordinary; in fact it is better not to make too many plans. They have found that the most normal things are the most enjoyable. Spending time at the beach, eating outside, taking the shuttle and going to the candy store are some of their favorite activities. Both Jackie and Zander love her visits and they feel that it makes "the summer pretty fun." Whether they are playing in the sprinklers, getting ice cream or just reading, they take pleasure in every moment.

Something that surprises Susan, though, is the lack of people who take part in the program on the island. It is such a simple, yet rewarding experience that almost anyone can participate in it, she says. "I really hope more families take advantage of the program because when you find a perfect match it's wonderful. It really is a win-win for everyone."

The Trudels will be welcoming Naya back July 10 this year for a two-week stay.

If you are interested in hosting a child, or want to learn more about the Fresh Air Fund visit www.freshair.org or contact the local chairperson

Patricia Boynton at 325-6965. I