Lewes After School Program sets volunteer orientation Aug. 24
The Lewes After School Program is seeking volunteers to help local elementary school children during the 2016–17 school year. Now in its 12th year, the After School Program is a partnership between Lewes Presbyterian Church and Shields Elementary School. There will be an information and orientation meeting for new and returning volunteers from 9 to 11 a.m., Wednesday, Aug. 24, at Lewes Presbyterian Church, Kings Highway and Franklin Street in Lewes. Attendees will meet Program Director Teresa Lockerman, staff and other volunteers. They will have the opportunity to find out about volunteer expectations, visit children's activity rooms and ask questions.
During the school year, 30 children in first through fifth grades go after school from 3:15 to 6 p.m. to Lewes Presbyterian Church for homework assistance, enrichment, character development, healthy snacks, arts and crafts and recreation. Many outside partners help make the program unique. The Jump Bunch program introduces the children to a wide range of sports activities for lifetime fitness and teaches the importance of fitness for good health. Literacy Education Assistance Pups volunteers bring their trained reading therapy dogs to help children improve reading fluency. Ocean Waves Quilters Guild members work with small groups of interested children, teaching the basics of quilt making. Other volunteers lead activities in art, chorus and music, and cooking.
Shields Elementary School teachers recommend students with academic or other needs who would benefit from a positive learning environment. Their participation in this free program has led to a decrease in disciplinary issues and a significant increase in homework completion and academic achievement. Volunteers have included retirees and still-employed individuals with a wide variety of backgrounds including education, military, business, government, healthcare, ministry, law enforcement and the arts. Volunteers can help with homework, one-on-one reading, math tutoring, supervising recreation activities, exploring new hobbies and crafts, presenting a one-time lesson (such as cooking, art, science, or writing), helping to plan events or just being a friend.
The Lewes After School Program operates in cooperation with the Cape Henlopen School District and is licensed by the State of Delaware, Office of Child Care Licensing. Primary funding is provided by a grant from the 21st Century Community Learning Center Program through the Delaware Department of Education. Additional funds are provided by Lewes Presbyterian Church, Cape Henlopen School District, Lewes-Rehoboth Association of Churches, Lewes Lions Club and the Greater Lewes Foundation.
An interest in improving the lives of young children and a willingness to commit two hours a week are the main qualifications. Volunteer scheduling is flexible and it is understood that volunteers may not be available for the entire school year. Training is provided throughout the year. For more information or to register for volunteer orientation, call Bernie Gilmore at 302-645-6941 or Teresa Lockerman at 302-228-3586.
