It is National Volunteer Week! When President Obama addressed the nation and encouraged all Americans to help support and strengthen our community and country through volunteerism, he described the week this way:
“We celebrate the profound impact of volunteers and encourage all Americans to discover their own power to make a difference. Every one of us has a role to play in making our communities and our country stronger.”
Boston Partners in Education could not agree more. Right now, we support over 600 volunteers working weekly with K-12 students in Boston Public Schools (BPS). Words may be an inadequate way to express our gratitude, but we wanted to give each of our program managers and our Executive Director a chance to thank you all for the time that you dedicate to these students:
I hope you know how much all of us at Boston Partners in Education appreciate your volunteer service. You are truly making a difference in the lives of the children every day. Your passion and dedication are so hard to come by. It is one thing for people to give money, but to give so selflessly of your time speaks volumes. We are so looking forward to having you volunteer again next year.
Math Rules! at the Mission Hill K-8
Appreciatively,
Wendy Beninati, Math Rules! Manager
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School Volunteer Program at the Boston Community Leadership Academy
I would like to thank the volunteers in the School 
Volunteer Program for all of their dedication! Each of you works hard in a variety of grade levels and subject matter, during the school day and some of you on Saturdays, supporting students in the Boston Public Schools. Your time spent in the classroom is invaluable and means a great deal to the students, teachers and all of us at Boston Partners in Education! Thank you so much for your hard work!
Hillary Chazen, Program & Placement Manager
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Power Lunch at the Qunicy Elementary School
In the corporate world, one might be applauded for winning a big case, landing an important new account or giving a stellar presentation. Accolades in any scenario are given for exemplary performance—going above and beyond. I feel so fortunate to work with a group of more than 250 people who take time out of their busy work schedules to give “above and beyond” a whole new meaning in their professional lives. Thank you, Power Lunch volunteers, for the time you give each and every week!”
Karleigh Rose Pettit, Power Lunch Manager
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“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead
I wanted to start off with a quote and I tried to find something new— one that I hadn’t seen before, but really, Margaret Mead says it best. She expresses exactly what I think about our volunteer academic mentors supporting students across the city of Boston. While it’s National Volunteer Week, please know that we thank you for giving your time every day of the year. Your contribution has a great pay-off! We hear from teachers and from you that these children are making strides academically and becoming more self-confident in their abilities. You make a difference in the lives of each student you support over the year. Thank you.
There are others who support our programming by serving alongside our staff as AmeriCorps volunteers. With the contributions of these three talented individuals – Kelly, Miki and Devin – we have been able to make amazing improvements to our systems. Their work helps us support all of our stakeholders this year and into the future. I thank them for all they have brought to Boston Partners in Education.
Save the Date: On June 14, 2011 (6 p.m. to 8 p.m.), we will have a party to celebrate you, your service to BPS students, and the impact you make. Details are on the way. I would be honored to thank you in person.
Pamela Civins, Executive Director