We’re excited to introduce you to our June Volunteer of the Month, Ru Marshall. Ru joined us as a volunteer in our Write After School Book Club in Fall 2021. They get our students so excited about the stories their reading, whether it’s a book about New York City or a witch learning to use her powers! Learn more about Ru’s experience at 826NYC and what they’re currently writing below.

 

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

Ru: I became involved with 826NYC after moving to Prospect Heights last summer. For many years I’ve been volunteering with kids, and I wanted to find an organization that was based in my neighborhood, or at least close to it.

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

Ru: 826NYC impressed me immediately with how well organized it was (I’ve worked with some pretty chaotic groups). Last fall I began working with the First through Third graders on Monday afternoons. Then I graduated to the Fourth and Fifth graders.

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

Ru: I’m a writer and a visual artist, and I’m currently completing work on a biography of the faux-anthropologist and cult leader Carlos Castaneda.

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

Ru: My advice to a new a volunteer is quite straightforward: be yourself. Hold the space. Show respect. Kids always know more than they think we know. Have fun.

Connect with Ru on Facebook, Instagram, or their website! Want to connect with our students (and help them write stories about unicorns and marshmallows)? Sign up for a volunteer orientation today!