For the past 10 years John Trudel’s family (John, Susan and sons Jackie and Zander) has hosted a guest for a few weeks each summer who has become a member of their family. Since 1877, The Fresh Air Fund, a not-for-profit agency, has provided free summer experiences in the country to more than 1.8 million New York City children from low-income communities. The Trudels have been host family to Naya who lives in the Bronx during the rest of the year.
John taught Naya how to ride her bike, Susan has helped her with college planning and the boys have taught her how to boogie board and fish.
John reflected that on the very first day of her initial visit, when Naya was 8 years old, her wish was to roll down a green field of grass, a simple thing that demonstrates so well what the program is about. It is not about spending money, but rather about volunteering your time and sharing your family life and experiences. Those of us fortunate enough to live on the island realize that the opportunities available on Nantucket are not available to all.
