To the Editor:
I am writing in regard to the great article highlighting the Greenspring volunteers at Crestwood Elementary School (“Reading Dr. Seuss at Crestwood Elementary,” Springfield Connection, March 10-16, 2016).
The group of seniors from Greenspring is actually part of a larger volunteer program called GrandInvolve. GrandInvolve was formed three years ago under the auspices of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors as one of their 50+Plus initiatives.
GrandInvolve volunteers serve in Title 1 Schools in the County. Our mission is to bring older adults into the classroom to assist teachers with individual students or small groups of children. Using intergenerational volunteers benefits both age groups and ultimately reduces ageism in our community. We currently serve three county schools, Crestwood as well as Mt. Vernon Woods in Alexandria and Parklawn in Lincolnia. Anyone who enjoys children and has some free time to serve students in Title 1 schools, which serve lower income populations, is welcome to join us in this intergenerational and intercultural outreach. Hours are flexible and school staff helps match school needs and volunteer interests. Potential volunteers should contact one of these three schools about GrandInvolve.
Dorothy Keenan
Burke