Meet our April Volunteer of the Month!

With our in-person programs on pause, we’re taking a little more time to think about the volunteers who help make them so fun and successful! They are committed, passionate, caring humans who have been with us through the many ebbs and flows of this world. Mahin Charles, our April Volunteer of the Month, is one of them. She has been a hugely helpful volunteer in our Mission After-School Tutoring program, and has helped our students grow in so many ways. To learn more about her, read on.

1. What is one of your favorite moments (memories, experiences or anecdotes!) from volunteering with 826 Valencia?

I have a lot of favorite moments working in the After-School Program. My favorite is when I help students figure out the solution to a problem by themselves and the joy and confidence in their eyes.

2. What led you to become part of our volunteer community?

I have volunteered with after school programs in many different schools and shelters. 826 Valencia is close to my house, which is a plus, but the main reason is that their program includes the whole family in the children’s learning process, which I love. Finally, I really like the individuals who run the 826 Valencia Street’s location.

3. Given a choice of the three, which would you choose: pirates, pufferfish, or woodland creatures? Why?

I like pirates because they were in all the fairy tales of my childhood.

4. What would we find you doing when not you’re not volunteering at 826?

I play music, dance tango, meditate, study Spanish, garden, hike, read, and spend time with family and friends

5. What would you say to someone who’s thinking about volunteering with 826?

Do it! It is very rewarding!