After a couple months of volunteering, Alex Tungesvik discovered a need at Granny’s House and acted upon it - a need for kids to get more serious about school.
“Growing up, I always had people in my life who believed in me and pushed me to be better, whether it was my parents, a teacher, or a coach. I owe e
very success in my life in part to these people,” says Tungesvik. Alex hoped to instill confidence and unlock the po
tential of children at Granny’s House. He reflected on challenged initiated by his high school physics teacher and began brainstorming a program designed especially for Granny’s House.
Alex brought his ideas to Granny Pam who connected him with Granny’s House intern, Kimberly Johnson Anderson. “After hearing Alex speak, I was very excited. I’ve personally experienced the importance of education and how it has and is continuing to allow me to create a better life for myself.” says Johnson Anderson. She continues, “Intimate relationships with God coupled with education allows the kids to create a brighter future.”
The two solidified the program’s framework and named it AMP - Academic Motivation Program. In its first semester, more than 40 kids participated, recording over 170 study hours. Participants were recognized and presented with awards and grade level winners received monetary prizes and trophies.
Deborah, Elementary Winner; Marri, High School Winner; Ange, Grand Prize Winner. Not pictured: Consolee, Middle School Winner
Alex brought his ideas to Granny Pam who connected him with Granny’s House intern, Kimberly Johnson Anderson. “After hearing Alex speak, I was very excited. I’ve personally experienced the importance of education and how it has and is continuing to allow me to create a better life for myself.” says Johnson Anderson. She continues, “Intimate relationships with God coupled with education allows the kids to create a brighter future.”
The two solidified the program’s framework and named it AMP - Academic Motivation Program. In its first semester, more than 40 kids participated, recording over 170 study hours. Participants were recognized and presented with awards and grade level winners received monetary prizes and trophies.
Deborah, Elementary Winner; Marri, High School Winner; Ange, Grand Prize Winner. Not pictured: Consolee, Middle School Winner“Honestly, the program is more successful than we imagined. We didn’t anticipate this level of participation. On many days, study sessions extend out of the Learning Loft and into the office, next door, or even outside,” notes Johnson Anderson. AMP is currently in its second semester and is projected to exceed last semester’s success.
More on Alex and Kim
Alex is graduate of the University of Missouri. Currently, he works as an ER technician at Capital Regional Medical Center while applying to medical school. Alex has been a volunteer at Granny’s House since June 2011.
Kimberly will be graduating from the University of Missouri in May. She will be returning to Kansas City to work for Aldi, Inc. as a district manager. Kim has been serving at Granny’s House since February 2010.
The Learning Loft
Kimberly will be graduating from the University of Missouri in May. She will be returning to Kansas City to work for Aldi, Inc. as a district manager. Kim has been serving at Granny’s House since February 2010.
The Learning Loft
Equipped with two computers, a printer, books, and supplies, the Learning Loft serves as the dedicated place for the children to study. Each day, GH kids pour into the room for homework help and tutoring.
For more information on how you can support or get involved with Granny’s House, visit our How You Can Help page.
