Needs From: HandsOn NWNC

The Youth Group Mentors help our Youth Program Coordinator with implementing plans for meetings and special activities and general supervision of the youth group. The group meets each Saturday, year-round. This is a good opportunity for someone considering a career in ministry, education or social service. You do not have to commit to each week. Most of our mentors come once per month.

The group of primarily low-income Hispanic/Latino teens will spend some time discussing a topic related to Biblical principles, then spend the rest of the meeting on topics related to navigating growing up in the world today. This may include life skills training and opportunities to try new things like drama or a field trip to a ropes course. If the group is small that day, we may simply "hang out" and play games or do crafts. This often provides the best opportunities for one-on-one mentorship.

 Spanish language skills are extremely helpful but not required.

We also need mentors who are available on weekend times other than our usual meeting time because sometimes our field trips happen on a Friday or Saturday night instead.

On Tuesday evenings during the school year come help students in grades K - 3 with their reading skills. You will help them practice letters and skills as well as practice reading with a computer program like RazKids or Starfall. You'll also spend time reading together with one of the many books we have in our library. 

If the student has homework, you will assist with that before moving on to a reading lesson.

Our Kids Club is for older elementary students (grades 4 & 5). It meets every Tuesday evening during the school year. At Kids Club we practice social emotional skills while also trying new things and learning about the world around us. Mentors help run the program, guide children in making wise decisions, controlling emotions, navigating conflict, etc. 

 We are currently recruiting for weekly mentors as well as substitutes to help lead/teach the program for the evening when our regular mentors are unavailable (often they are college students). If you have a special skill or learning experience (juggling? a STEAM activity?) you would like to teach the children for a few sessions in a row or even just one, please be in touch. 

Our Blessings Box outside our community center needs a steady supply of non-perishable food, toiletries, and other small items for our neighbors in need. Certain perishable items are acceptable if they are "shelf stable" for up to 24 hours (for example, bread, some fruits or vegetables), weather permitting. We are also accepting larger items (such as bulk packages) that we will store inside the building which we will place into the box as needed or share with members of the community who we visit (those who may not have transportation to get to the box easily). Please call ahead if you have bulk items (336-724-0850).

The box is small, but in winter it is also nice to put a hat, gloves, or a scarf inside for our neighbors who need an extra bit of warmth. We ask that you NOT put clothing in the box. Thank you.

We are seeking tutors to help our middle and high school students with math, reading, ESOL, passing the GED, and/or general study habits. In addition, on days when students have no homework, we need folks who are willing to mentor youth by spending time with them, offering a listening ear, words of wisdom, and practical advice when needed. Our students are looking for help with things like: applying for jobs, navigating relationships, and managing personal finances.

The group will meet Thursday evenings during the school year and occasionally during the summer.