Our Blog | Horizons at Carolina Day School

Reflections on the Gifts of Volunteering

Horizons has changed my life. It has allowed me to be a better leader - and a better person. All the kids have impacted me in so many ways, and I can only hope that they feel as though I have impacted them in a positive way as well.

My first year volunteering with Horizons was the summer after freshman year. As a student at Carolina Day so many of my friends were involved with the program - and encouraged me to join. At first I wasn't sure. I didn't know if I would be good at it. However just weeks before the summer began I signed up, and I'm so glad because it has been one of the best experiences.

I came into the summer nervous. I knew none of the kids, or the other volunteers in my group. However, as I got familiar with the program I realized that Horizons created a space to share our vulnerabilities. Whether it was through SEL classes, or class meetings, it was important for the class I was in to talk about what they were going through and sharing their emotions. Because of this, Horizons created a safe space for everyone to grow and learn, including myself.

It seems cliche to say that my favorite part of Horizons is the relationships I have formed with the kids but it’s true. I love that I have become a person that the kids feel comfortable talking to and sharing things with. I love staying after programming and attempting to learn how to crochet with the girls, and I enjoy that we have Super Steam Saturdays so I can talk about school, friends, and life with the kids during the school year. My favorite moments are when we go on walks to chat, or go to the gym for a while to take a break because I can spend time doing what they love to do, like having a basketball competition, or picking vegetables out of the garden, while building deeper connections.

Another “fan favorite” has to be swimming. This summer I was able to be a swim instructor, allowing me to work with almost every student, and be a part of something that they loved and worked so hard on. It's rewarding to watch kids go from getting nervous near the water to mastering skills like the back float or treading water in a matter of weeks. Some of my favorite moments from this summer were watching kids pass the swim test, playing volleyball during free time, and giving tips to some girls who wanted to learn how to dive better. By the end of the 20 minute free swim they went from diving on their bellies, to going in head first, something that took me days to figure out.

I can’t wait for many more summers and I am so excited to watch the kids I have worked with become volunteers themselves.

Social Emotional Learning: A Foundation for Learning and Recovery

Social Emotional Learning (SEL) helps children and adults understand and manage emotions, set goals, show empathy, build relationships, and make responsible decisions. These skills are key to emotional well-being and long-term success. At Horizons at Carolina Day School, SEL strengthens academic learning by helping students develop focus, resilience, and social skills. A child who can manage frustration, work with others, and stay calm is more ready to learn and grow.

SEL becomes even more important after a crisis. Children affected by disasters like Hurricane Helene may feel fear, grief, and anxiety, which can make it hard to learn. SEL supports recovery by helping children express emotions, feel safe again, and reconnect with others.

We have a wonderful partner in Save the Children whose Bridges Program (Building Resilience in Diverse Groups of Engaged Students) combines SEL with academic learning to support children in their return to learning after a disaster. Through the program, students regain a sense of routine and confidence.

Horizons has two dedicated Student and Family Support Specialists, Morgan Adams and Daymón Hinkelman, who lead SEL efforts. Using lessons from the Bridges Program, they guide mindfulness activities, creative expression, and movement to help students manage emotions and build self-awareness. Every class has one to two SEL lessons per week. Morgan and Daymón also check in with individual students who need extra support on tough days.

The Bridges Program also equips teachers with tools to create supportive classrooms and respond to students' emotional needs.

By addressing both academic and emotional recovery, SEL helps children heal, reconnect, and thrive—even after a crisis. At Horizons, it’s how healing and learning move forward together.