With its high population of recently resettled refugees, Clarkston, GA is a vibrant community—rich in diverse experiences, cultures, and by extension—foods. It is truly the melting pot of all melting pots. It’s also the home to New Expression on Saturdays from 10am-12pm.
Fifty percent of Clarkston’s population is foreign-born and 85% of local businesses are owned by that same population. While the refugees’ experiences are incredibly diverse, they share two common attributes – they have all gone through the most rigorous screening process of any immigrant and they all share a hope for a brighter future.
NXP Clarkston provides a safe place for the youth in Clarkston to come together. With an Art Club, Music Club, Dancing Club, and Sports Club, NXP not only becomes an intersection for kids from different cultures but also a place for students to express their different interests.
Here are some highlights from Something New Volunteers:
“I have loved spending time with Art Club at NXP Clarkston. I’ve love the art projects, but what I have loved the most is the opportunity to get to know some incredible families in Clarkston. It has been such a gift to learn from them, and shown me that love really is the universal language.” -Emily
t getting started. I like seeing a consistent group(sprinkled with a few new ones) come and get messy. So far it’s been less about the end product and more about the process of creating something. My favorite part is asking them what they’d like to do in art club. I’ve heard from ice cream to watching Moana. The possibilities are endless and we won’t just stay in an artsy box. Our next adventure is fluffy slime!” – Cora
“One of my favorite highlights at Dance Club was probably last week doing the African dances with Sadi. Then also dancing Love Makes The World Go Round with Dashika and seeing her be able to get the freedom and be able to have a ton of fun. Being with everybody and seeing ones that have been there since the beginning start to lead and be themselves is definitely another highlight.” – Shania
“The best part of NXP Sports Club is the diversity of games we play and the people that play together. You never know what we will do and who will be there. Boys, girls, older and younger. It feels like a family day at the park with a couple of your best friends. So much fun!” -Clint
Want to join New Expression Clarkston or volunteer? Contact Amanda@somethingnew.org
