Some of our students are really taking off with their reading. One young lady recently graduated to chapter books and is so proud of herself.  I am certain that our insistence on the extra 20 minutes each night really does make a difference over time. When things start to “click,” it’s a great feeling for the student and the helper; every time a borrowed book goes home, a volunteer smiles.

Volunteers are also gearing up for Footprints for Hope , the walk and 5K fundraiser that benefits all the partners at Connections for Hope. There’s still time to register.  Be sure to choose Vecinos Unidos as the beneficiary when you do.  See you at the walk on May 19!

SOL testing is on the schedule this spring so students are preparing in many ways; we are learning a lot of Virginia history as students prepare for their tests! Who knows about the Woodland Indian tribes? 

In another exciting first for VU, one of our students is running for office.  He has drafted and prepared a speech and worked on his campaign posters.  Wish we could vote, because he certainly has a lot of supporters at VU!  Can’t wait to find out if he gets elected.

Among the 25 attendees were cofounders, Darryl and Maria Smith. The Smiths have since started a similar program in Purcellville, VA, and were delighted to find that VU is still a meaningful part of the community with such dedicated volunteers. It takes a lot of work to make a volunteer program successful. 

Congratulations to the board members and volunteers of VU for all the hard work they put in to ensure that the students we serve get all the attention and support  they deserve.