We’re excited to introduce you to our January Volunteer of the Month, Enya Pfeiffer!

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

I actually discovered 826NYC walking around my neighborhood. As soon as I noticed the words “superhero” and “writing” on the bright sign outside of 826NYC’s youth writing center, I simply had to find out more. I grew up almost equally obsessed with superheroes and creative writing, and realizing that I could support students in imagining, world-building, and expressing themselves felt like fate.

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

I continue to be inspired by 826NYC’s commitment to honoring and celebrating students’ diverse identities. Witnessing the students feel safe enough to express themselves unapologetically through their writing is not only meaningful, but powerful as well.

826NYC: What’s your favorite part of Write After School?

I adore connecting with the students and supporting them as they wrestle through the complicated question of how to translate their inner world to paper. Seeing the students build confidence within themselves and their writing has been so healing for my own inner child, and I’ve been moved to tears more than once by the students’ stories.

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

When I’m not volunteering at 826NYC, I’m typically providing psychotherapy to folks seeking support navigating trauma and building deeper, more vulnerable relationships in their lives. Otherwise, I spend my time crafting and making art. Currently, I’m learning to crochet!

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

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned in life, especially when working with kids, is how important it is to empower people to make choices that feel right and authentic for them. With the amount of expectations and rules students often face, creating a space where kids feel safe to imagine entire new worlds, write about their hopes and dreams, or just be silly can make all the difference.

826NYC: What are your superpowers?

As much of a therapist cliché as it might be, I feel my superpower is my curiosity. Centering curiosity keeps me from falling into the trap of believing I am an expert, and instead reminds me that I am a lifelong learner right alongside the students I work with.

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