“Early childhood literacy is key to being successful in life”. This quote is from one of 2nd and 7’s very own volunteers Jill Wilde. Jill has been volunteering with 2nd and 7 for about a year and nine months. She enjoys volunteering because it gives her a chance to help people and make a difference in the community. Her volunteer work includes sorting, organizing, pulling orders, and filling giveaways. She believes giving books to teachers helps get books to students who need them. Jill always encourages the people around her to come and volunteer and says it’s a very welcoming environment. She has also done volunteer work at Leveling the Playing Field and Lifeline of Ohio. She loves volunteering, and it makes her feel good about being apart of something so impactful.
Lisa Anichowski originally taught second grade and would often see the athletes from 2nd and 7 come to the school. When she retired, she felt that 2nd and 7 would be a wonderful place for her to continue to help her community. She has been involved with the program for about three months, sorting books into different categories and helping with book giveaways so that children can receive books of their own. One of her favorite parts about volunteering is looking through books and being able to say, “Oh, I love that one,” and share her love for reading. Lisa enjoys seeing the children’s reactions when they find a book they really like. She believes that 2nd and 7 creates a positive experience for children and helps them develop an interest in literature. The program, to Lisa, is especially meaningful because some children don’t have books at home or the resources they need. Lisa believes it is important to keep the momentum going and when asked if she would change anything about the program, she said no.
Jean Pontones has found a way to stay connected to her community after retiring by volunteering at 2nd and 7 and the library. She enjoys being around people who share the same passion for helping children discover the joy of reading and getting access to books. Through community events, she can connect with the children and talk to them about what they enjoy reading. Jean also encourages them to become more interested in books. She believes that reading is the foundation for all learning and that organizations like 2nd and 7 are critical for children who may not be introduced to books. Overall, she feels the organization has a great mission and creates a great environment where volunteers can make a positive impact on young people.
Written by: Sha'Niya Ashley, Cristo Rey High School Work Study Student