First Presbyterian Church
How to describe this partnership? A potpourri of support. Volunteers committed to making a difference for Edison Environmental Science Academies’ children in many different ways…
- 20 tutors and classroom friends
- 24 bakers and makers of Birthday treats, provided on a monthly basis to classrooms, so that children who might otherwise have their birthday go unnoticed, are recognized
- 7 Presby Paws volunteers, in which children read to a dog
- Volunteers offering enrichment programs that tie in with the school’s curriculum
- Purchasing school supplies and snacks
- Assisting children with basic needs such as mittens
- Assuring that every child in grades 3 to 6 has their own new book
- When one family needed financial support as a result of a mother’s terminal illness, First Presbyterian stepped in and provided financial support for utility bills to help the family get by during this difficult time.
First Presbyterian Church has been committed to helping for a long time; they have never waivered from serving the Edison students. Site Coordinator Cathy Ullrey feels that one of the secrets to their success is Joyce and John Petro and Carol Payne Smith. They serve a critical role in recruiting and supporting volunteers from First Presbyterian. All have a good rapport with the teachers.
While First Presbyterian attached themselves to Edison prior to CIS, we have, for the past 7 years, been privileged to see first hand, the value and care for children these volunteers bring to the students of Edison. This school year alone, First Presbyterian Church provided 51 volunteers to support Edison students in a variety of ways. Their numbers are impressive but so is the heart and soul that each of them pour into the work they do.
Congratulations, First Presybterian Church, on your 2008 Champ Award!