We’re excited to introduce you to our March Volunteer of the Month, Kevin Xu!

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

I used to teach creative writing at local schools as part of a community service organization during college. It was one of the things I missed the most after graduation, so after I moved here, I started looking into how I could get involved in something similar. When I saw the work 826NYC had been doing, I knew I wanted to join their mission.

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

Being able to inspire others to develop their voice, seeing where their imagination takes them in their writing, and witnessing all their efforts bear fruit when their works get published in anthologies.

826NYC: What’s your favorite part of Write Away Workshops?

I enjoy walking in and being greeted by the kids, and getting to read the crazy things they come up with. I also view the classroom as a sort of third place. It’s a pleasure to mingle with other volunteers and staff who share similar interests yet come from different backgrounds.

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

When I’m not at 826NYC, I’m usually hunkered down in a lab at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, looking for the next breakthrough in cancer research. When I’m not at work, I’m probably hitting the gym, writing my next short story, or enjoying a video game.

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

Don’t hesitate to get familiar with the kids. They’re very friendly, and although some of them can be shy, they’re usually eager to share their work with others. Even if you can’t participate in the in-person sessions, there are plenty of other ways to get involved, like copy-editing student pieces or designing book covers. Also, remember that there are other veteran volunteers who are happy to help out.

826NYC: What are your superpowers?

Genius intellect. I find myself in a pickle quite often, but I always devise a solution to get out of it.

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