Larissa’s Journey is a blog series that we hope will offer insight and understanding into the lives of one of the young people in the Innercity Arts program. We hope to raise awareness, challenge misconceptions, and honestly reflect the lives of those who call the streets their home. This blog is the more detailed account of Larissa’s on air presentations on Family Radio CHRI, 99.1 FM, each weekday at 8 am and 5 pm. Thanks for listening.
How I first met OIM?
Well, there was this girl that used to go to choir, Alisha, and I asked her to come over. In my kitchen, I could only find macaroni and cheese. I didn’t have any money. None.
She said, “I go to this place where they pay me to sing. They also have an art group. If you like, I could call Moira and see if you could go.”
I was like, “Ohh… maybe I could get some free food.” I was so happy, and thought, “Maybe there is a chance for me.” I was on my last straw and did not know what to do. At the same time, I was also nervous, thinking it was not going to be what I thought it would be. Honestly, it was better. It was very organized.”
When I first went to choir, I was really excited, because I thought: “I could become famous.” I was so excited to become famous. Once I tried it out, I thought, “This is awesome.”
That was the beginning.
I got into the choir, and had to go on a waiting list to get into the art group.
I begged Moira to go to the art group, begged for weeks on end. When an opening came up in the younger “Innercity Arts” program, Moira told me. I asked her about all the details
I was worried that if I came to the art group that I would be judged, thinking they would think I would be in the same place as they were. The youth made me feel like I was a part of everything. They involved me in just about everything. When I come to the Innercity Arts program, it’s like, “Hey everyone! Larissa’s here!”
When I got to the art group, I couldn’t believe how good it was. I loved it. I enjoyed myself. I did really good with fabric art. Really good! I sell all my fabric art at the art shows we have each spring.
I never felt unwelcome, and though sometimes I got teased, it’s been going well.
Editor: Please stay tuned to Family Radio CHRI 99.1 weekdays at 8 am and 5 pm as Larissa next shares “My Changed Life.” Then come back to this blog and read the full length episode in Larissa’s own words.