When people think about volunteering, they often focus on the difference they can make for someone else. What I have learned through the Jewish Community Relations Council of the United Jewish Federation’s Be A Reader Literacy Project (BeAR) is that the volunteers often receive just as much as they give.
Our BeAR mentors spend one hour a week reading with a second grader in a local Title I school. That may not sound like much, but that hour can be the brightest part of a child’s week. Yes, we help children strengthen their reading skills, but we also provide something many kids desperately need: a caring adult who is there just for them.
For active senior adults, BeAR is a wonderful way to stay engaged, connected, and involved in the community. Our mentors tell me all the time that they look forward to their BeAR day. They love hearing about their student’s week, celebrating their successes, and watching their confidence grow. Many of our volunteers say they signed up to help a child, but quickly realized the child was helping them, too.
As we begin planning for another school year, now is the perfect time to think about becoming a BeAR mentor. One hour a week is so easy to do, and I have seen firsthand the difference it makes. I’ve watched children discover a love of reading, and light up when their mentor walks through the door. I’ve also watched volunteers find friendship, purpose, and joy in these relationships. It is a simple commitment that creates something truly special.
For more information about becoming a BeAR mentor, contact Robin Ford at 757-321-2304 or email rford@ujft.org.