Demonstrating Leadership through Mentoring

Students who are enrolled in LEAD2001 at Johnson and Wales University Denver are required to take part in Service Learning, where they can observe different forms of leadership in their community. I have previously volunteered at Food Banks, 5K runs and other community events. But, I wanted to help the younger generation. Many students from low-income families enter a learning gap which causes them to fall behind a grade or two from students who are from middle-upper class families. So, I entered the Reading Partners Program where I could mentor the young student using visual aids and enthusiastic demonstrations.

 The first two weeks of volunteering were enlightening. The coordinators were friendly and inviting! They showed me how to use the tutoring packets. I was able to read to a first grader who was falling behind. We read “The Three Little Fish and the Big Bad Shark”. Right away the boy related the book the classic tale of “The Three Little Pigs.”! From this story we picked out difficult words to add to his Word Journal. I asked him questions as we read the story, for example; “Why did the house made of kelp fall?” He would answer, “Because kelp isn't strong enough!” Then we worked on pronunciations, vowels and dynamics. With another student I demonstrated syllables through clapping games and picture grouping. The student is able to create their own sentences using high-frequency words. The student then places the word they were able to retain and pronounce on a board for all to see! I gave my student a high five and walked him back to his class.Towards the end of the session we help the kids pick out a book to bring home! The student is able to keep the book of their choice forever! The majority of the students at this Elementary school come from low income families. Many students can not afford things like books, crayons, pencils and makers. This program reaches out to these students by providing the take-home books and other utensils. I found crayons for 50 cents at Goodwill! I am looking for students at my University who are willing to donate a few dollars for crayons and books!   

The first two weeks of tutoring were successful! I demonstrated leadership through communication and one-one attention.  I formed a bond with each student and left the class room feeling proud and influential. I recently received news from the site coordinator that the Mayor would be visiting the school for the “Mayors Day of Recognition for National Service”. I have the chance to discuss the importance of this program with a great leader! What a great opportunity! Plus, the news will be there! So far this program has enlightened my brain and introduced me to new leadership characteristics and actions.  I am anxious to learn more from these students and fellow mentors.

Here is a board showcasing the students' dreams.  These are realities, hopes, wishes and prayers.

He loves animals and Marvel characters!

 She was so fun! She can easily rhyme and draw! We played Syllable Bingo and formed letters with Play-Doh! She also taught me a handshake after our lesson. :)

"This is a piece of cake."

"A dream is gone, but where there's hope... Somewhere something is calling for you, to guide these lives we see!"

Note: May want to skip to chorus. :)