In search of something to keep me busy through the exaggerated winter break, I began looking into some volunteer experiences. I woke up one day with an email for the Service Scholars: Winter Term Service Opportunity and felt that this was my in. I had known little to nothing about the program, but the spontaneity in me wanted to try something different and new. I did not realize how much I would be getting out of this experience prior to showing up at Booker T. Washington on day one.
Naturally, I was a bit nervous. I did not know anyone in my surroundings, nor was I familiar with the program itself. I had volunteered with The Boys and Girls Club in South Georgia many years ago and assumed I would be getting a similar experience. This assumption, however, was all wrong. Although my volunteerism previously was nonetheless amazing, I did not find myself wanting to go back each week in the same way I have with this program.
Back to day one, not knowing what to expect. I knew that I would be working with kids, and helping them with their homework. I knew where the classroom was located and where the accelerated reading books were stored. What I didn’t know was that I would not only be doing the teaching, but being taught as well. The program has taught me about patience, and about being humble. The kids at Booker T. Washington are a very diverse group. Some of them come in wanting to get work done, some of them struggle to focus, but they all seemed to have a few things in common. I found that throughout the homework sessions, the kids were really just looking for someone to talk to.
I had some great conversations with some of the kids at the center, learning about them and their interests. I found that connecting with them on this level allowed me to help maintain their focus when it came to getting the homework done. I also reminded myself that I was in a sense coming into their home, their territory, and their safe place. I wanted to make sure that I did whatever I could to preserve this kind on environment to help promote education and opportunity in the kids lives.
I have gotten to a point in the program where I want to continue on past the winter term. My schedule allows me to continue to volunteer, and I want to take advantage of that opportunity. I get a really good feeling from helping these kids with their homework. It is extremely rewarding to see progress and to feel like I am a part of that growth. Just this past week, I was welcomed to the center with hugs and hellos from some of the kids that I have worked with throughout the weeks. Knowing that I can make a difference in their lives, and in return in the community is the best reward I have received from the program thus far.
