I’ve heard that there are volunteers who assist with reading programmes at the local government schools. I have looked at the ministry and department websites and can see nothing about it and I feel awkward just calling up schools randomly. So my questions are: Is there such a programme? Do they actually want or need volunteers? If so, why don’t they make it easier for people to do this? At least have a link on one or both websites with information on the programme and what help is required and when. I’m happy to volunteer my time but I also want to know that it would be both useful and appreciated.
Auntie’s answer: I first want to commend you for your interest in volunteering. We need more people like you who are willing to give of their time to help the young people of Cayman.
I brought your question to the Department of Education Services (DES), which informed me that it does not actually have programmes in place to facilitate reading volunteers, so that explains why you were unable to find out anything on the department and ministry websites.
While companies and individuals can arrange to volunteer at individual schools, I can understand why you might be a little reluctant to go it alone. However, the good news for you is there is a Cayman charity whose mission is to improve literacy levels among our young people.
LIFE (Literacy is for Everyone) is always looking for volunteers for its paired reading programme in government schools. According to the LIFE website, its more than 150 volunteers who participate in public schools across Grand Cayman are paired with individual students to provide one-to-one assistance with their reading for 30 minutes a week.
I encourage you to contact LIFE. Their reading programme seems the perfect fit for you.
Call the schools directly.
Hi, My name is Marilyn, and I am the executive director of LIFE. Thanks to the commentators for bringing to light a shortfall in how we previously dealt with volunteer applications. We’ve been working internally to better our process and ensure that we get back to each and every person who wants to volunteer for LIFE. Without knowing any names, I could not comment on what happened with specific applications, but please accept my sincerest apologies.
We are, indeed, always looking for new volunteers and we value the time and effort each one contributes to improving literacy levels in the Cayman Islands. Our Paired Reading Programme is a fantastic way for students to receive one-to-one assistance as they embark on their literacy journey. If you would like to learn more about our Paired Reading Programme or apply to volunteer, please email volunteer@life.org.ky.
Carol Huddleston
contact the Cayman Islands Baptist Church. I have been volunteering f or over 2 years now, with the El Jubilate after school program for 2 afternoons (6 hours) per week, helping the Government Primary School kids to read and do math. And learn music. No charge. You can contact the Church and they can give you details on who to contact. Great Christian oriented program. And the kids are doing great. We have over 40 kids now.
I contacted this organization about 6 months ago, the lady asked me to go to the Red Cross to take a course and get police clearance and when I completed all that, she didn’t even call me. They claim that they need help but that’s just them making themselves look like Good Samaritans.
Hi, If you would like to discuss this more, please feel free to email me directly at marilyn.conolly@life.org.ky. Again, my sincerest apologies and thank you for your interest in helping our young people. I look forward to speaking with you soon.
I contacted LIFE by email and phone 2 years ago to offer my time as a volunteer and never heard a word back from them.
Hi, If you would like to discuss this more, please feel free to email me directly at marilyn.conolly@life.org.ky. Again, my sincerest apologies and thank you for your interest in helping our young people. I look forward to speaking with you soon.