ENERGY - A Volunteer
Opportunity
Program description
The ENERGY program is a
comprehensive after school program that addresses the academic, nutritional,
and social needs of young, immigrant students mostly from central Africa and
Burma and from various religious backgrounds.
As English Language Learners - very new to the US - they require help
just getting the basics of communication skills. Recommended mostly by BPS counselors, 25
students, grades 1-6, are bussed to Westminster Presbyterian Church, which
provides study spaces for the program
including a library and kitchen. ENERGY begins when students join volunteers
for a family-style/volunteer prepared meal. After dinner (filled with directed
conversation) students with their assigned volunteer sit down to read together
and talk and read some more. Students
then do their homework with volunteer support. With a broad spectrum of
qualified volunteers, each student (ELL) receives individualized attention to
address his/her particular needs in speaking, understanding and reading.
Program schedule
Following the Buffalo
Public School calendar, ENERGY is in session Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from
4:15 - 6:30. A detailed calendar is in
the Handbook.
Program starts Tuesday,
September 16
The Program Director
schedules volunteers.
What skills are needed by volunteers
Reliability/Consistency: Volunteers must be able to devote a specific time to the
students. As much as possible, students find success more easily
when they are with the same volunteer.
Responsibility: Volunteers must be role models and exhibit responsible
behavior to the student. Volunteers need to communicate concerns
and accomplishment to the Program Director and record them for smooth transition day-to-day.
Training
Volunteer training: Sept
9, 10 or 11
In depth orientation,
review of Volunteer Handbook, Rules and Expectations, guidance leading to
successful interaction with recent immigrant students, teaching tips
Head to the WEDI web page and click on the volunteer banner for more opportunities.
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