Back to the Cov - Alumni Reunion

Food, fun and fellowship brought together former and current residents, staff, and volunteers at Covenant House Michigan's first annual Alumni BBQ. Sounds by volunteer DJ John D helped everyone to break out of their comfort zones, dance, and have a good time. The residents and alumni took to the basketball court, dancing everything from the Soulja Boy to the Cupid Shuffle.

Former residents were able to come back and reminisce on their time at Covenant House; and, two former residents, Aaron Ayler and Danielle Martin, gave testimony as to how Covenant House helped them to have success in their current lives. Awards were given to some of the former residents for their achievements including permanent residency, job program placement, and scholastic achievement. Special props went out to a former residents that just became a home owner and another former resident that's working on completing his Master's Degree.

Many of the attendees participated in playing games such as basketball, volleyball and a water balloon toss that turned into a water war.
There were many people who came out to support this event. Kyra, radio personality from channel 955, showed her support by hosting the event. A group of youth volunteers from Ohio dedicated their time to help set up for the event. Thanks to John, the man behind the grill, everyone was able to enjoy a delicious meal, including his famous BBQ chicken. Mrs. Bosley, quality assurance and training manager and Scott, a CHM volunteer put a lot of hard work, dedication and time into making the Alumni BBQ a success. The two summer PR interns Marissa and Carly spent a lot of time helping to coordinate the event and calling local businesses to obtain prizes and gifts for the attendees.

An event such as this is important because it allows the current residents to see someone who has been in their position and were able to triumph. Witnessing the achievements of other people who share similar stories can provide the current residents with the hope in knowing that they have the power to change their circumstances. Also, it allowed the former residents the opportunity to come and give back to the community that helped them to prosper.

CHM's aftercare program works to make sure that youth who leave CHM are able to receive additional care. In addition, we're able to evaluate the effectiveness of CHM's residential programs.