If you are looking to give a couple of hours a week to a great organization doing fun work that makes a big difference in children’s lives and in the community, join us. The more committed volunteers who come to Connections for Hope to work with VU, the more difference we can make. Check out www.vecinosunidos.org for more information.

Sometimes what needs improvement is their effort. That’s a little harder to do than a page of math homework, but volunteers can  take the time to talk to students about their work, nudge just a little when they need it, and recognize when they make an effort and succeed. Hey, that sounds pretty  much like what we all need, doesn’t it?

VU has welcomed some new students in the past few weeks and they are getting into the routine along the regulars. With friendly and helpful volunteers; hundreds of books to choose from; educational resources, such as flashcards and manipulatives; and games to play when the work is done, why wouldn’t they want to come? It really is a great place to get support and learn–for students and adults.

Reading and homework are the two pillars of VU. It’s really satisfying to watch a reluctant or struggling reader steadily gain confidence and develop skills and, finally, realize that they actually like reading after all. Volunteers are always welcome to help with reading so even if you’re not sure about your homework skills, listening is highly valued at VU. We’d love to have your help. 

If you are a volunteer already or want to become one, I can’t promise you a busy night or a slow night. I can only promise you that when you help a child, the universe smiles. (You and the child will be smiling too). I can honestly say that I always leave homework assistance feeling better than when I arrived!

One thing I know for sure is that VU will have 0 students on Monday, January 16, because the schools and VU will be closed in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr, who fittingly wrote:  

“An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broad concerns of all humanity.”

Here’s to living and the great work that VU volunteers do.

Everyone behaved beautifully and worked hard; students pitched in to help one another too.  Have to give kudos to the two high school students who were there and handled multiple students with ease.

Four more students were registered so we’ll be seeing some new faces over the next few weeks. If you don’t volunteer already, we’d love to see you there too!

But it was a special night, so afterward the students made lots of snowflakes to take home with them, and each received an adorable stuffed bear and homemade cookies. The smiles on everyone’s faces, kids and grown-ups alike, reflected the good will and happiness that give meaning to the holidays.

The VU board wishes everyone a healthy and happy new year.

VU also continues to welcome new volunteers, including a new high school student, who increase our capacity to help more students.  The students love working with the high schoolers, who are wonderful role models as well as sources of knowledge!

Although the numbers had been steady at about 10-12 students through the beginning of December, Thursday brought 21 students and 11 volunteers out.  After homework and reading were done, a volunteer quizmaster helped prepare students for a big social studies test. It was so much fun that even students who didn’t have a test coming up joined in! A great night for everyone.

Everyone who brings in their report card gets a new toothbrush (choice of colors) and two small tubes of toothpaste. You’d think we were giving them candy by their responses! This prize was a hit.

This is a short week because of Thanksgiving, with sessions only on Monday and Tuesday.  Hope you all enjoy a wonderful holiday with family and friends.