Above all, be flexible. Honor individuality and independence. Remember names. Consistently validate students and their work. Figure out ways to bring out their best. Focus on progress, not perfection. Share some things about yourself. Bask in the joy, laughter, curiosity, and energy all around you!

I couldn’t pick just one favorite moment from volunteering! Working on the book cover for the Young Authors’ Book Project was a different kind of rewarding. I have a Graphic Design background, and it was exciting for me to be able to combine my love of design with my now full-time job of making art out of paper. There’s something so amazing about seeing your work in print.

Volunteering is a journey and an adventure! Some quests will be immensely gratifying, others will be frustrating, still others will feel like a total failure, but they’re not! Just being there for our students is enough, it shows them that we care. If you can come all the time, great! If not, take some time for self-care (but come back later!)