Last year, two of the kids we were mentoring were living in a car. In our school, we deal with many homeless students, single-parent homes, or situations where both parents are not in the picture. These kids crave attention and want someone to make them feel valued. Many of our students are transient and didn't get the foundation they needed early on. By fourth grade, some have already given up, leading to a grim future where finishing high school seems impossible.
Detroit has been a symbol of urban decay, historically the most segregated city in the country due to policies from the mid-20th century. A significant local pastor said we need systemic change, not just cosmetic fixes—this means job training and literacy. The literacy rate in Detroit is a stark 47%, and out of my 30 students, only six are reading at grade level.
Parents often tell us they're unable to help their children due to their own literacy struggles. Our teachers can't do enough alone; they need the help of one-on-one attention from volunteers. When kids learn to read, their options expand from mere survival to thriving. Programs like Soar, involving dedicated volunteers from places like Oak Point Church, provide the necessary one-on-one time and consistency that our students desperately need.
This video showcases the profound impact of these volunteer efforts and how they are transforming lives, one reader at a time. Join us in making a difference.