Column: Clearinghouse for Volunteers

10/8/09 - Want $1,000? How about six credits? Do you enjoy working with pre-school age children? Want to make a real difference in a child's life? How about a hands-on experience in the field of education and credits toward your degree? If you answered "yes" to these questions, then Jumpstart may be the right program for you. One child at a time, you can really make a difference.Jumpstart is a national non-profit organization that is dedicated to, "the day when every child in America enters school prepared to succeed." URI's Jumpstart program recruits, trains and supports college students to work directly with young children. As a part-time AmeriCorps volunteer, you will be making a difference in the life of a young child.

Think back to when you learned to read, how did it change your life? Your encouragement and example can help a child to enjoy reading forever.

Those enrolled in the Jumstart program receive training and support to learn how to encourage and support one child over the course of 300 hours of service at a local Rhode Island Headstart or pre school center. Imagine how good you will feel when the child you encouraged looks back to the time in their life that made them love learning, and they remember that it was you who made a difference for them.

As a college student, you really can make a difference by sharing your love of learning, your experience and your success. Become a powerful role model for a young child! It's as simple as joining Jumpstart.

When asked about her experience with Jumpstart, Courtney O'Keefe said, "During my three years with the Jumpstart program I have witnessed the transformation of children from shy and timid, to outgoing and extroverted; from rambunctious and unfocused, to patient and attentive; and I have seen children without any desire to learn, grow to love reading and writing."

Another Jumpstart URI Corps member, Evan White said, "Being part of Jumpstart is a phenomenal opportunity to gain experience volunteering in your community, earn a $1,000 education award, and make a difference in the life of a child."

URI Jumpstart team members may receive federal work-study in addition to six credits for their participation in this important program. Upon successful completion of a year of service, team members also receive a $1,000 AmeriCorps education award. The program lasts the full academic year, starting with training prior to the Jumpstart Corps members entering pre-school and Headstart center in late October.

Join Jumpstart today and help children to dream, to explore and to believe in themselves. Then perhaps, because you cared enough about them today, they will care enough about others tomorrow to make a real difference for everyone's future.

To find out more about this exciting and fulfilling opportunity, see details and application at http://www.uri.edu/volunteer/application_jumpstart and then contact Lynne Finnegan or Cat Cutlip in the Jumpstart office located in Roosevelt Hall room 133. Those interested can also call 874-5539 or 874-2090 or email jstart@etal.uri.edu. We only have five slots remaining, so stop by today!

http://www.uri.edu/volunteer/jumpstart.