2020 is finally drawing to a close, and as we look back on this tumultuous year, we are deeply grateful for all our volunteers who stuck with us through all the changes. One of these stand out volunteers? Rebecca Fox, our December Volunteer of the Month! A regular with all our Tenderloin Center programs, Rebecca always “shows grace and patience with each student and finds specific ways to encourage them throughout the writing”. Read on to discover more about how Rebecca first got pulled in to volunteer, and to hear some of her wonderful tutoring advice!
What’s one of your favorite moments from volunteering with 826 Valencia?
One of the most wonderful aspects of 826 Valencia is the diversity of programs available to students and volunteers. Now that we have transitioned to meeting online, more than
ever, the moments that stand out as my favorites are the ones when students who may have previously been hesitant to share suddenly step outside of their comfort zone and
experience a new sense of pride as they share something that they have written.
What led you to become part of our volunteer community?
Walking past the Tenderloin center, I was drawn in by the riddles and quirky quotes on the building. Upon discovering the fantastic program that was housed inside, I knew it was the perfect volunteer opportunity for me, and a welcome way to reconnect with my interest in writing and working with young people.
Which would you choose: pirates, pufferfish, or woodland creatures? Why?
Nature is so amazing, and there is something almost magical about woodland creatures and the way they go about their lives in their natural habitat.
What would we find you doing when not you’re not volunteering at 826?
My favorite activity to participate with is performance art. I particularly love to sing, dance, and act in musicals, and to play lots of different silly characters and make people laugh while performing sketch comedy. I also like to help out behind the scenes, and to sit in the audience and watch talented artists doing what they are passionate about!
What is a piece of advice you would give a new 826 volunteer?
Ask all of your questions. This is an incredibly supportive community, and there is always someone who is happy to share the benefit of their experience, and someone else who has your same question!