Before we know it, school bells will be ringing throughout the Monadnock region. Many children in our community will eagerly delve into new learning adventures. But for some the very idea of school and the expectations that come with it are scary.
Men and women, ages 55+, are invited to become an America Reads volunteer to help children struggling with reading. Volunteers will engage children in Pre-K through 3rd grade in literacy activities and one-on-one reading time. The commitment is for one hour, once a week, during the school year.
Volunteers have been requested at the following America Reads sites for the 2024-2025 school year: Keene, Winchester, Fitzwilliam, Keene Day Care, and Keene and Jaffrey Head Start. We anticipate more locations as teachers return to their classrooms and meet their new students.
An interest in working with children and providing support as they learn, being a consistent adult role model, and a desire to serve the greater community are all that is necessary. Volunteers complete an interview and application process, undergo criminal background and reference checks, must attend the mandatory training and receive ongoing support.
Many of our volunteers tell us it is a highlight of their week, and they feel they make a difference! End-of-year results show they DO make an impact! To find out more, contact Kathy Baird at Monadnock RSVP Volunteer Center at 603-357-6893 or send an email to rsvp@mfs.org. Monadnock RSVP is an AmeriCorps Seniors program and is sponsored by Monadnock Family Services, a Monadnock United Way Agency.
