Mahki and Maleeha: Growing, Learning, and Having Fun Together

For siblings Mahki and Maleeha Smith, Freedom City is a place to learn, play, and have fun together.

Mahki, a second grader, especially enjoys spending time in the gym. Whether he's playing during the afternoon or participating in activities, being able to have fun and be active is one of his favorite parts of coming to Freedom City.

Maleeha, a first grader, has a different favorite: the snacks and dinner.

But both siblings agree on one thing—Freedom City is a place where they enjoy being.

When asked how he feels at Freedom City compared with school or being at home after school, Mahki simply said that he really enjoys being there.

For Maleeha, the answer was just as clear. She said she feels “happy, excited and healthy.”

Learning Along the Way

For Mahki, one of the things he appreciates most is having someone there to help with his homework. Maleeha also said homework is one of the things she has received help with at Freedom City.

And learning isn't limited to homework.

When asked what she is proud of this year, Maleeha said:

“I’m proud of growing up everyday, playing and learning new things.”

Her answer captures something special about childhood: growth happens in the big moments, but also in the everyday ones—playing with friends, trying something new, learning a new skill, and coming back the next day ready to do it again.

The People Make a Difference

Both Mahki and Maleeha were quick to name the Freedom City staff members who have made their time here enjoyable.

Mahki named Ms. Judy, Ms. Jada, and Ms. Erin. He appreciates Ms. Judy for the “yummy food and snacks” and Ms. Jada and Ms. Erin for the fun games.

Maleeha named Ms. Judy, Ms. McKenna, Mr. Kyle, and Ms. Erin.

“I like them, they have helped me.”

For Mahki and Maleeha, those relationships are part of what makes Freedom City feel like a place they want to be.

Just Ask Your Parents to Sign You Up!

If another student were thinking about coming to Freedom City, Mahki knows exactly what he would tell them:

“It’s fun and to ask their parents to sign them up.”

Maleeha kept it even simpler:

“It’s really fun.”

And sometimes, that's the best recommendation of all.