We’re excited to introduce you to our July Volunteer of the Month, Phyllis Trout! Phyllis has volunteered with 826NYC’s Write Together Workshops program since 2024.

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

I love Dave Eggers’s writing and literacy is essential. I was looking for a meaningful opportunity to be involved with students.

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

At 826 Students are met where they are, not where they “should” be. 826 helps students develop their own relationship to their own learning. The community at 826 is welcoming and fun to be a part of. 826  is both a challenging and a safe space.

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

When I am not at 826 I am in the studio printing, painting, or outside drawing.

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

New volunteers will be surprised and delighted by the students and the learning community. As you experience the students discovering their voice at 826, you will also discover your own!.

826NYC: What are your superpowers?

My superpower is my ability to laugh at myself and take myself way too seriously.

Want to support our students this summer? Sign up for a volunteer orientation today!