The
By Joy Jones I became more actively involved with Turkey Thicket in
1995. Through DC WritersCorps, I
taught creative writing to the students.
Ever since, I have been leading activities at 'The Rec'. I would have quit, but Shirley Debrow, who
manages the center, is not a woman who takes no for an answer. No one can mention Turkey Thicket without mentioning the Carroll
Family. Their activism, commitment and
creativity have helped it flourish.
Natalie Carroll is a steady, loving presence and has helped to raise
nearly every child in the community.
When Nicole Carroll worked there,
she was known for her beautiful bulletin boards. DC WritersCorps Director, Kenneth Carroll
has made writers and other resources available to the center, as well as
making himself personally available.
Joy Hunter Carroll once led a creative writing class there and you’ll
often see her and her children hanging out.
Thomas Carroll currently carries on the tradition, working as a
recreation assistant. But major props
go to staunch, long-time volunteer and supporter Estella Carroll. Without her, Turkey Thicket would lose much
of its flava. With the renovation and expansion of the center, I thought this
would be the right time to record Turkey Thicket's story. This project has been made possible through
funding from DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities and generous donations
by the Kiwanas Club. Support by the
Kiwanas came through author, Carolivia Herron, who was one of the speakers
for the Turkey Thicket Griots and quite a remarkable griot herself. We gained more historical and social
perspective from talks by Gerald Anistead, co-founder of The Turkeys Tennis
Club and Natalie Carroll. What follows are perspectives by the most important people at
'The Rec’ - the children. |