SOWING THE SEEDS OF CHANGE
ROXBURY
PILOT SCHOOL HOSTS KICKOFF EVENT TO PROMOTE LITERACY
Roxbury, MA (October 1, 2004)- Fall, often synonymous
with change, brings in addition to changing leaves, a new school
year filled with opportunities for many Boston youth. As Fall classes
kick into high gear, over 200 local retirees will be working side-by-side
with teachers, promoting literacy in public schools.
October 1st marks the beginning of an exciting new program year
for Generations Incorporated as it expands its reach, entering 14
sites this Fall. The organization recruits older adults to serve
as mentors and tutors for students throughout Dorchester, Roxbury
and South Boston. The volunteers become part of the local Experience
Corps team.
This year’s kickoff event will be located at the Orchard
Gardens K-8 Pilot School in Roxbury. Refreshments will be served
at 9:30 AM with events to follow in the field adjacent to the school.
This fun-filled day will feature guest speakers, hands-on activities,
and of course Orchard’s own student body, ready to show their
community that they are indeed up for the reading challenge, and
ready to give the Boston Public Libraries a run for their money.
The students will be planting a tree as a living metaphor for
change. The idea here is that with strong roots in the community,
they can overcome the literacy challenges they face and grow to
new heights. Also not to be missed, Dorchester resident, Tony Fonseca
will bring his spirited Cape Verdean music, utilizing percussion
instruments such as drums and tambourines. Fonseca’s colorful
style will surely bring the kids and volunteers together, something
that Generations Incorporated is counting on.
The public is welcome and encouraged to come to this event. In
case of rain, activities will be held in the auditorium. The Orchard
Gardens Pilot School is located on 906 Albany Street in Roxbury.
Take Silver Line to Dudley Station. Take #1 bus (Harvard-Dudley)
to corner of Melnea Cass Boulevard and Albany Street. Turn right
onto Albany Street.
Generations Incorporated is a 13 year-old non-profit organization
that unites youth and older adults in service to strengthen individuals
and communities. They join these two groups in public schools and
Boys and Girls Clubs, so children can get the individual attention
they need. Generations Incorporated is a partner with Experience
Corps®, a national movement that mobilizes older adults in service
to make a difference in the lives of young people.
Anyone over the age of 55 can volunteer with Generations Incorporated
after training with staff. For more information, call Regina Ballantine
at 617-778-0553, or visit the web site at www.generationsinc.org.
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