When did you first get involved with First Graduate?
I’ve been volunteering with First Graduate for about 6 months now.
What inspired you to get involved?
I am retired teacher, having taught everything from phonics to physics. It has been almost a year since I moved from to the Bay Area from Maine. I was in search of a volunteer opportunity that involved helping kids and this opportunity came my way through my son-in-law who encouraged me to volunteer.
What kind of opportunities have you been involved with at First Graduate?
Through this program, I have worked with students who are middle school and high school ages (11-17) at a number of different events, from Discovery Day to Presentations of Learning.
Currently, I am working with a high school student, the daughter of Nicaraguan immigrants, 5th in her senior class, who is writing her personal statement for her college applications. It is hard work but she is doing it! She will certainly become the first college graduate in her family.
Take us behind the scenes. Tell us about an experience you had while volunteering that made you realize you were making a difference.
Recently, I spent some time with small groups of students practicing speeches they had written for Presentations of Learning. I even brought my husband along. Our role was to provide these young students with positive, encouraging feedback from adults to help them shed their fear of public speaking. I even received a personal thank you from one of the boys, I have kept it, that really touched my heart. I will always be grateful, these kids and the staff at First Graduate® have enriched my life in numerous ways.
What pieces of wisdom would you share with new volunteers or community members who are interested in supporting First Graduate?
Although my experience as a teacher has certainly helped me in working with these students, I would encourage anyone who cares about the success of a child’s future to get on the bandwagon and volunteer, the experience is inspiring. You will discover that by helping a child you have become a better person.
Are you interested in becoming a volunteer?
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