Every summer, 4,000 Fresh Air kids head off to visit volunteer host families in their welcoming homes.
For one or two weeks, they enjoy everything that summer has to offer in suburban and rural communities along the east coast and Canada – whether it's swimming in a backyard pool, shooting hoops in the driveway or taking the dog for a walk around the block, hosting is all about summer's simple, inspiring moments.
Since 2001, the Blake family has welcomed Fatizjah, a bright and ambitious girl, into their home and hearts. Over the years, the Blakes have shared in some of Fatizjah's greatest accomplishments, biggest decisions and most meaningful moments. In short, Fatizjah has become the New York City extension of this rural Canadian family.
Here's what Tammy Blake had to say
about hosting Fatizjah:
Q: What was your first summer with Fatizjah like?
A: I knew the second I heard about The Fresh Air Fund that we needed to be a part of the Volunteer Host Hamily Program. And we knew the second that Fatizjah walked off that bus, that she would forever change our lives in so many ways. In our first few days with Fatizjah, my whole family was struck by her fun-loving, hard- working, determined attitude. She was such a joy to have in the house!
Q: How has your family's relationship with Fatizjah evolved over the years?
A: Fatizjah has truly become a part of our family. This past Christmas, she stayed with us for three weeks. She's formed strong relationships with many of our family members, and my daughters are always eager for her next visit. They love watching movies together and making the most out of our snowy Canadian winters. This year, we all went tobogganing
together...what a trip! But really, I think what stands out to me the most is the way in which Fatizjah fits right in at our dinner table.
Without Fatizjah, I believe there would be a huge void in our home and lives.
Q: What advice do you have for families who are considering hosting a Fresh Air child?
A: For us, what began as a summer visit in 2001 has now impacted the lives of two families. I cannot encourage it enough – and it's important to know that you do not have to spend a lot of money doing extraordinary activities. Hosting is all about plain and simple family fun. Watching Fatizjah grow up has been a gift. Today, she's a college student, but thirteen years ago she was just a little girl who'd never stepped foot outside of New York City. If you want to make a difference in a child's life, hosting is one of the easiest and most enjoyable things you can do.
To learn more about becoming a volunteer host
family, visit freshair.org/host-a-child.
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