Southern Minnesota Initiative seeks volunteers to help kids with reading
Published 12:00 am Monday, August 29, 2005
For the Tribune
Southern Minnesota
Initiative Foundation is looking for people who want to help young children learn to read. In partnership with AmeriCorps, often referred
to as the Domestic Peace Corps, the foundation is expanding
its commitment to young children and literacy. This year, AmeriCorps
Members will focus their energy on improving young children’s reading
skills.
Currently,
the foundation is looking for individuals to fill AmeriCorps positions
in Fairmont, St. James/Madelia,
Waterville-Elysian-Morristown area and Northfield. AmeriCorps members will
be trained to assist with early childhood programs and learning-to-read
efforts. Members will also participate in professional development and
training activities.
Full-time
AmeriCorps members receive an annual $10,600 living allowance, health
care insurance, child care benefits, along with a $4,725 education
award upon completion of their term of service. Minimum qualifications
include at least two years post high school education or work
experience.
Southern Minnesota
Initiative Foundation is committed to recruiting and engaging
individuals without regard to disability, gender, race, religion or
personal orientation. Information and an application can be found at www.smifoundation.org/membership.html.
This
new children’s literacy initiative &045; called Reading Early Achieves
Development Success (READS) &045; will directly support The Foundation’s early
childhood efforts. “Our goal is to close the readiness gap for
young children entering kindergarten, and also provide support for parents to help their children learn to read,” notes Barbara
Gunderson, READS Director. “If you seek a rewarding experience and
opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young children and
families, please give us a call.”
For
more information contact Barbara Gunderson, barbarag@smifoundation.org, 507-455-3215, or visit www.smifoundation.org.