CWOb spotlight: weekly tutoring

Weekly tutoring is a program offered by CWOB that is a memorable experience for both the kids and volunteers. 
by Christina Mouttet

CWOB, or Children Within Our Borders, is a program within Children Beyond Our Borders that focuses on making a change in our local communities. This allows our volunteers and partners to add themselves to the equation for education here at home in both Orlando and Gainesville. So far, CWOB has accomplished amazing things this year- from fun, themed workshops to weekly tutoring sessions. Some of our workshops this year have included a space-themed one with the aim of encouraging a passion for science and learning in the kids, a cultivating culture workshop, and a Spooktacular event to celebrate Halloween.
 
As one of the public relations interns, I paid a visit to one of the weekly tutoring sessions in Gainesville to see for myself. I was awed by the many incredible volunteers, all working together to do whatever they can to help the kids. The bond that I saw developing between the volunteers and the kids was truly inspiring. The session consisted of helping with homework, eating snacks, and, after homework was finished, building a puzzle!

Volunteer Anna Baringer helps a student with her math homework.

One of the best parts about volunteering at weekly tutoring is the friendships you make. For the most part, it is the same volunteers and kids who attend the session every week. The kids become friends, and so do the volunteers. Each of the kids is unique and makes the session enjoyable for both the volunteers and the other students. For example, Giovanni and Neymar are such a blast to have at tutoring and always make the volunteers laugh!
"How do you guys know each other?" asked a volunteer.
"We're neighbors," said Giovanni. 
"But we're best friends, too, aren't we?" asked Neymar.
"Oh, right! Best neighbors!" exclaimed Giovanni. 

Students Giovanni and Neymar working on homework together.