We’re excited to introduce you to our August Volunteer of the Month, Susan Miller. Susan joined our volunteer cohort through RSVP during the 2021-2022 school year! She supports our Book Club, which is part of our Write After School program and supported Summer Workshops this year. Learn more about Susan by reading below:

 

826NYC: How did you first get involved with 826NYC, and why did you decide to volunteer?

Susan: I had passed by the Superhero Supply Store many times when I walked down 5th Avenue and wondered what went on there. After I retired I found out that there was a reading and writing center in the back called 826NYC. I decided to volunteer last fall because reading and writing are two of my favorite activities and I wanted to help children learn to love reading and writing.

826NYC: What’s your favorite part of 826NYC?

Susan: My favorite part of 826NYC is getting to know all the kids. Everyone I meet is wonderful—each in their own way. It’s a real pleasure to be able to share my love of reading and writing with them. The staff and other volunteers at 826NYC are also so friendly and fabulous.

826NYC: What do you do when you’re not at 826NYC?

Susan: When I’m not at 826NYC I do some weightlifting, yoga, hiking and biking. I also volunteer to walk dogs for disabled seniors, and I just started taking an improv class, which I love.

826NYC: What advice would you give to a new volunteer?

Susan: I would tell new volunteers to be patient, it takes time to get to know the children, especially if you are only there one or two times a week. Consistency in volunteering is very helpful I found. But once you get to know the kids it’s very rewarding.

826NYC: What is your superpower?

Susan: My superpowers are lifting heavy things and getting people who are in bad moods to smile.

 

You can connect with and follow Susan on Instagram. Want to connect with our students? Sign up for a volunteer orientation today!