Transforming North Glen’s Volunteer Program

For a number of years, North Glen struggled to recruit active volunteers, so this year the school decided to make a concerted effort to start rebuilding the program. Led by Kory Tvedt, one of the school’s two volunteer staff liaisons, North Glen focused on recruiting volunteers to work one-on-one with students to provide academic support in reading and math. Vicki Vandenheuvel, who volunteered at North Glen with her home schooled 14 year old daughter, shared, “Carly and I were so impressed with the students’ desire to learn and the hard work they were willing to put into it.  Each student was so respectful and seemed genuinely excited to have the one on one time.  Having the one on one time allowed the students to focus in on the particular words or reading challenges that were specific to that child.  It was amazing to see the growth during these times.”

In order to ensure volunteers had everything they needed, Mr. Tvedt created “Volunteer Kits” for each class with materials and directions so volunteers could turn basic skill practice into fun games. When asked about her experience as a volunteer Bunny Amason said, “It was a wonderful experience and most of the kids were eager to work with me. The teachers and staff were welcoming and eager for me to help in whatever capacity I could. Several students were particularly fun to work with as they learned from each other and seemed to really want to work with me.”

In addition, the school matched volunteers with teachers, so that now, every teacher has a volunteer to call upon for support for special projects, such as the book fair, science fair, and art projects. This personal connection made an impact for the volunteers and the school. Pre-Kindergarten Teacher Mrs. Faye Duque, said, “We are thankful for Miss Bunny and all the volunteers that helped this school year.  Having them in the classroom made a world of difference.  We looked forward to seeing Miss Bunny’s smiling face each week.  She interacted well with each student and helped pushed each student to their greatest potential.  We hope our volunteers will continue to feel welcome and will return for years to come.”

North Glen has even proudly welcomed two Foster Grandparents into the school, who are giving 20 hours a week supporting students.

North Glen’s story is proof that, when a school develops a strategic volunteer outreach program that actively recruits and supports its volunteers, both students and staff will reap the benefits.