We’re excited to introduce you to our November Volunteer of the Month, Dov Alpert. Dov joined us during Summer 2021 supporting Zoom workshops, and has been a staple in our Write After School Book Club since last school year! Learn more about Dov by reading below:

 

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

Dov: Remoy Philip, my friend and a true superstar person is responsible for turning me on to 826. He had a good experience as a writing mentor, I was looking for an opportunity to work with students, and after that the rest is…

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

Dov: I used to be an after-school teacher and I miss working with students. So my favorite part of volunteering here is getting to do that again.

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

Dov: My job, as of writing this, is a mouthful. I’m the project manager of marketing videos at a scientific analytical instrumentation manufacturing company. Other ways I spend my time include my own creative projects, kung-fu lessons and cha dao tea drinking with my teacher, hiking upstate, biking around the city, and general merrymaking with friends.

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

Dov: Don’t worry about it. By which I mean, don’t worry if the kids like you. They will when they get to know you. Don’t worry if you’re utilizing the time as well as you could be. You’re probably doing your best. Are the students exhibiting behaviors that indicate whether they’re learning, bonding, growing into thoughtful, bright adults? I’m not qualified to worry about that, are you? As banal as it sounds, it really seems like students respond best when volunteers are relaxed, if not actually having fun. I’m sure you know what I’m getting at. If not, don’t worry about that either.

826NYC: What is your superpower?

Dov: Most of them are secret, but I can say that I’m a super napper. Maybe one of the top nappers out there. I can fall asleep in about ten minutes and wake up 20 minutes later feeling amazing. If only office etiquette allowed for napping at your desk.

 

You can follow or connect with Dov on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Want to connect with our students? Sign up for a volunteer orientation today!