The Salvation Army’s after school program is recruiting more volunteers so that they can reach more kids, which is very important for those hard-working families in the Sunnyside and Lincoln school districts.
“We just want to be here and be a support to families who are in need of help.” said Salvation Army Corps Officer, Monica King. “This is our 5th or 6th year supporting the youth and families and we want to continue to be here for them”
Currently, there is only one part-time employee that runs the entire program and, who only has the capability to watch around 15 kids. The program has a capacity to serve around 40 kids so, what the program is incredibly in need of volunteers to help reach as many families that are in need, as possible.
“So, we're really counting on the community to come out and help these kids. We really only are looking for an hour and a half to 2 hours a day. They could do one day. They could come four days. However, whatever their schedule. Anything would be of help and appreciated.”
And not only would the extra hands help the program, it also helps the kids improve in many ways as well.
“We have had parents tell us that since their kids started coming to our program, they not only have seen their grades increase, but behavioral issues reduced. We've had reports from school principals and teachers telling us the grades have gone up substantially for the children in our program. And they say that they have a sense of self-worth, their self-esteem, they notice increased self-esteem for the kids that come to our program as well.”
Monica believes this would also be a great opportunity for high school or college students looking to fill their volunteer hours.
“This is such a great community; we know that there are people willing to help. So, that's why we hope to provide assistance to families, just to give them that little extra boost of maybe encouragement and help.”
If you’re interested in volunteering, you can inquire at the Salvation Army Great Falls center located at 1000 17th Ave S in Great Falls, or contact Shannon at (406) 453-0391 for more details.
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