BATTLE CREEK, Mich. – Staff and cadets at the Michigan Youth Challenge Academy (MYCA) have mobilized to produce fabric face masks to fight the spread of COVID-19 and fulfill one of the program’s core requirements, service to community.
The project was spearheaded by academy counselors Yolandra Jones and Karen Gonser, nurse Cathy Seppa, and Janet Dadow. Cadets are gaining valuable life skills as they learn to sew and appreciate the importance of attention to detail.
“Our cadets have really had a lesson in life coping skills through the COVID-19 pandemic, just as we all have,” said counselor Karen Gonser. “They’ve missed out on opportunities to get out to the communities and participate in service projects, as well as parent and mentor visits and field trips. They’ve been tested more than most of us, not having any change of scenery since this all started.”
Local businesses donated fabric and other supplies for the project. Industrial sewing machines were purchased by the MYCA, and staff with sewing experience are providing instruction.
Mike Gillum, academy director, said the current hardship only amplifies the adaptability of the entire organization.
“The cadets are seeing how solutions can be put together on the fly, and how working together can benefit everyone,” said Gillum. “Seeing how everyone, staff and cadets alike, has come together has really been a testament to the strength of our program. And the resilience of the cadets continues to amaze us all.”
While the masks are no substitute for medical-grade personal protection equipment (PPE), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended homemade cloth masks for the general public, preserving PPE for medical staff. The first order of 65 masks will go to the Hart-Dole-Inouye Federal Center in Battle Creek.
MYCA continues to exercise restrictive measures and safety precautions as directed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the adjutant general of the Michigan National Guard and the National Guard Bureau.
The Michigan Youth Challenge Academy applies the military model to alternative education for at-risk youth ages 16-18. It is a free, 22-week residential program. The next cycle begins in July.