Outreach Magazine Lists Saturday Tutoring as Back-to-School Ministry Idea
The Saturday Tutoring Program at the Church of the Covenant was mentioned in an article in the May/June 2009 issue of Outreach magazine, published by California-based Outreach, Inc. The article was entitled "Back to School: 18 ways to jump-start fall outreach to youth and families".
The article points out that "with thousands of under-resourced and ill-equipped schools nationwide, the need [for help] is widespread and urgent." The 18 tips ranged from serving a weekly hot meal for high school students, to providing school supplies and uniforms.
Five of the ideas, including Saturday tutoring, were described in detail in the hopes that other congregations will use the ideas as starting points to brainstorm ways they can "be part of the solution."
Nearly twenty years ago, our program started small. As the article states, we now open our doors to about 100 students (grades 1-12) and 70 tutors each week. During the free, two-hour sessions, the students get nearly undivided attention from a tutor. The church and its partners pay for all costs—refreshments, supplies, special events, and field trips.
Director Linda Wilson was quoted as saying, "Since we accept volunteer tutors from all walks of life, the church is able to serve the community on different levels—the students, whose grades improve, and the tutors, who are able to give back to the community."
If you would like to volunteer in the Saturday Tutoring Program or if you'd like more information about starting a program at your site, please contact us.
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