NEW SUMMER READING BUDDY: TEENS SHOULD APPLY NOW

10 May NEW SUMMER READING BUDDY: TEENS SHOULD APPLY NOW

One of the most important gifts you can give a child is the gift of reading. A new Reading Buddies program, co-sponsored by Bright Futures and Wilkinson Public Library, makes that process even more fun for the child.

The free program pairs 3- to 6-year-old children with teen and pre-teen volunteer mentors, grades 6-12. Buddies meet once a week at the library on Wednesdays, June 19-July 31, to read together one-on-one, play literacy games and do group activities. At the end of the session, the Buddies present a group project to their families.

Applications are now being accepted for both Little Buddies and Big Buddies. Applications for Little Buddies are due Monday, June 3. Applications for Big Buddies are due Tuesday, June 4.

“This is a great opportunity for the younger kids to have an additional literary experience with a caring teen mentor,” says Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer, who helps coordinate the program with Bright Futures. “And the program director, Deb D’Angelo, brings so much enthusiasm and experience with children’s literacy to the program. The teens and pre-teens who get to train with her are in for a real treat.”

Before the program begins, D’Angelo interviews the Big Buddies, then offers a mandatory training. She also provides guidance for planning and debriefing every week.

“It’s a great volunteer experience for a resume or college application,” D’Angelo says. “Plus we are able to offer community service credit and there will be prizes such as books, t-shirts, gift cards and more. But best of all, the Big Buddies have the joy of helping a younger child learn and be successful.”

Applications are available at the children’s desk at the library and online at www.brightfuturesforchildren.org

For more information, call Deb at 970-728-1211 or 970-728-4519 x 23.