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

Camille: I first came to 826 in 2008, after moving to New York from Los Angeles. I remember reading about 826 Valencia in San Francisco, and following the NY chapter very closely. I signed up immediately, and have volunteered on and off since!

Joshua: I’d heard of 826 for years, and always meant to get involved. After meeting Cami and hearing all the stories about how great/ridiculous it was, I signed up as soon as I could.

What’s your favorite part of volunteering at 826NYC?

Camille: Getting put in my place creatively by the kids. There’s a lack of filter that’s inspiring, both in writing and every day life.

Joshua: Those little breakthroughs where I can tell the kid’s genuinely learned something.

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

Camille: I separate volunteering at a book store and waiting tables on angry adults by reading and exploring as much of New York as I can.

Joshua: I’m a freelance copywriter, which means haunting coffeeshops and hunting for Brooklyn’s fastest Wi-Fi.

What advice would you give a new volunteer?

Camille: Don’t go into it thinking that teaching is a one-way street.

Joshua: Go into it thinking teaching is a one-way street. Just kidding. How about: if you have a good attitude, the kids are far more likely to have one, too.

What are your super powers?

Camille: Grammatical precision, boundless energy— The Camillitary

Joshua: Devastating sarcasm, bullet-proof jokes—Captain Red Beard