Making Good Season 2 Episode 3 Trenton Circus Squad

In season 2, episode 3 of Making Good, the spotlight is on the Trenton Circus Squad, a youth development program in Trenton, New Jersey that uses circus arts to inspire and educate young people.

The episode begins with a look at the history of the Trenton Circus Squad and its founder, Tom von Oehsen. von Oehsen began the program in 2013 as a way to provide at-risk youth in Trenton with a safe space to learn and grow. Since then, the program has expanded to serve over 750 young people from diverse backgrounds, offering them the opportunity to learn circus skills such as acrobatics, juggling, and aerials.

Throughout the episode, viewers are introduced to various members of the Trenton Circus Squad, including students, coaches, and volunteers. We meet Yasira, a high school student who has been part of the program for five years and has developed a passion for aerial silks. We also hear from coaches like Cintia, who came to the United States from Brazil and now uses her background in circus arts to inspire and teach young people in Trenton.

One of the central themes of the episode is the transformative power of the Trenton Circus Squad. Viewers see how the program has helped many young people in Trenton overcome obstacles and develop confidence, discipline, and resilience. We hear from students like Dwayne, who credits the program with helping him change his life and focus on his goals. "I was getting in trouble in school, not really doing my work," Dwayne explains. "Coming here, I had to pay more attention. I had to be more focused."

Another important aspect of the Trenton Circus Squad is its commitment to serving the community. The program offers free performances throughout the year, including a popular annual circus show. Viewers watch as the students prepare for their show, working hard to perfect their acts and create a fun and engaging performance for their audience.

Throughout the episode, viewers also get a sense of the broader impact of the Trenton Circus Squad. We hear from community members, parents, and educators who have seen firsthand how the program has changed the lives of young people in Trenton. We also learn about the national Circus Harmony network, of which the Trenton Circus Squad is a member. Circus Harmony is a network of youth circus programs that aims to inspire social change through the power of circus arts.

Overall, season 2, episode 3 of Making Good offers a moving and inspiring look at the Trenton Circus Squad and the incredible work it is doing in Trenton and beyond. Through powerful personal stories and breathtaking performances, viewers are left with a deep appreciation for the transformative power of circus arts and the importance of programs like the Trenton Circus Squad in our communities.