As part of its celebration of National Volunteer Week, the Volunteer Reader Program asked the teachers and directors at its 39 child care and preschool sites what makes their readers so special. These caring and fun adults give an hour each week to read aloud to preschoolers, and the inspiring responses we got are extremely reflective of the great work that our volunteers do.  The words paint a picture of the enormous impact that our team is having throughout King County, and when we published them in our monthly newsletter, they were a really great way to let our volunteers know how truly appreciated they are, (even though they might sometimes feel lost admist the happy chaos of the preschool classroom). Here is what our teachers and site directors had to say about their volunteers:

 “I appreciate our volunteers because they remind me of why I became a teacher. They are kind and generous to the children, while at the same time being fun people for the adults. Our volunteers are our vision for the future.”

“You have made a big difference in our kids’ lives!”

“Our preschoolers light up when the readers come into the room.”

“Our readers spark a love for reading and develop a positive relationship with the children.”

“The Children run over to the door, practically plowing our readers over with hugs the minute they arrive!”

“Your warmth, patience and responsiveness to our children, as well as your commitment are so appreciated.”

“Readers always seem to bring such positive energy to the lives of our young children, families, and center staff.”

“The program promotes the children’s passion for literacy as well as supports social and emotional development.”

“Thank you for generating excitement and enthusiasm for literacy!”

“Our children show so much excitement when our volunteer comes to read to them.”

“Reading is one of the greatest gifts you can give to a child.”

“Our volunteers become familiar folks to our young children.”

“We feel so lucky to have so many wonderful volunteer readers. We appreciate your enthusiasm, dedication, and the time that you donate each week.”

“It has been a unique opportunity to reach out to students who need a quiet place to take a break, showing them that they can pick up a book to cheer themselves up or calm themselves down as well.”

“Our volunteers are always ready to lend a hand, a smile and a laugh to our kids.”

“Our reader is like a movie star, everybody likes him.”

“Our three volunteers are a joy to our site and the children use the calendar to see when the next visit will be! Your gift of time, kindness, and warmth is a wonderful example of community.”

“These kids are imitating their role models from your wonderful program! Thank you so much!”

 Thanks again volunteer readers! We know that there are even more enthusiastic, inspiring role models out there to read to the kids in our program, so if this is you, let us know!