As the holiday season wrapped up in Philadelphia, a sense of communal warmth lingered, not from the festive lights, but from the collective efforts of volunteers celebrated by the city's Mayor's Office of Education and Office of Children and Families. These volunteers, instrumental in adult education, community schools, foster grandparents, and reading coaching programs, were honored for their dedication to bettering the City of Brotherly Love, according to the City of Philadelphia.
Grounded in their neighborhoods, the volunteers foster are often the living pillars of the areas they serve. As the Chief Education Officer Debora Carrera put it during the celebration, "Each one of you could do anything with your time, but you choose to serve and make this city a better place to live," an article by the City of Philadelphia recounts. Their efforts range from aiding neighbors in attaining their GED to helping kids develop literacy skills, underpinning the city's commitment to education and community engagement.
The impact of these programs is far-reaching. In the realm of adult education, the city collaborates with various organizations to deliver ESOL, digital skills, math, and literacy training. Over the past year, 86 volunteers completed a month-long training, with 50 new individuals placed in support roles at around 20 different city providers. Volunteer Akeneta L. shared, "It’s about giving joy to people...that makes me happy too," as reported by the City of Philadelphia's newsroom.
The Reading Coaches program pairs volunteers with young students, fostering their reading skills and a shared enthusiasm for literature. Volunteer Kathleen reflects on her experience, "Every year is a little different and I’ve always met wonderful kids and had a great, gratifying experience for myself," in a narrative shared with the City of Philadelphia.
For those inspired to join or learn more, Hanna Kim, the volunteer coordinator, can be reached at [email protected], as directed by the City's announcement.
