A free literacy support program for primary school aged students in Melton is keen to expand, but needs more community volunteers to meet demand.
St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria (SVDPV) Melton Education Program has been running out of the Melton Central Community Centre for three years, providing literacy support for students from cultural and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
The program has 36 students enrolled, taught by a team of adult volunteers, as well as highschool volunteers from St Francis Catholic College, and as the number of enrolments climbs, SVDPV is looking for more adult volunteers.
SVDPV Melton and Maidstone education coordinator Karishma Mohan said she has witnessed incredibly special moments during the program.
“We have seen many of our students going from struggling to recognise their alphabets to confidently reading and writing three to four letter words over the span of a few months,” she said.
“However, what makes the program so special is the social and emotional development the program facilitates.
Melton Education Program volunteer Tiziana said her experience volunteering has been wonderful.
“I love the energy of the kids,” she said.
“It brings me joy, seeing them grow over time is especially rewarding.
Tiziana said she developed a special connection with a student in the program who has an ASD diagnosis.
“Initially he was resistant to working with me. However, one day, we started talking about rainbows and I told him that rainbows make my heart happy,” she said.
“This struck a chord with him and ever since, we have had a close working relationship. It’s been incredible to watch him flourish in his social interactions throughout the course of the program and I am very proud of his progress.”
Hina said having three children enrolled in the program has been a really good experience.
“My children learn a lot and they are very happy doing different art and craft activities. It’s also helping them improve their reading level,” she said.
Ms Mohan said you should apply to volunteer if you have a positive attitude, a passion for helping others and a desire to give back to your local community.
Anyone over the age of 16, and available between 3pm to 5pm on Wednesdays is welcome to apply as a volunteer.
Details: svdpvolunteers.applynow.net.au/jobs/SVDP1472-education-program-volunteering
