The 2009 - 10 school year was another banner year for volunteerism in the district – over 13,000 hours of volunteer service was reported. This represents time and efforts of hundreds of individuals that dedicate their time to our youth in each of our buildings.
Our volunteers serve in multiple roles in our schools — many service as mentors, while others service as tutors, Partners in Education or parent volunteers. Prime Time volunteers, those 55 years and older, represented 4,353 of the total hours recorded. We value the dedication, energy, compassion and time of each volunteer, as they work to enhance the educational experience of our youth.
One other measure is the dollar value of a volunteer’s time. The Independent Sector, a leadership forum for charities, foundations, and corporate giving program, values the time of an Iowa volunteer at $16.69 per hour. This represents a gift of “$162,126.66″.
Volunteers make a difference every day in each of our schools. From being a reading buddy in an Elementary classroom to hosting a job shadow student in your workplace. We value each hour of time given, talent shared and encouragement for our students. Without volunteers our students lack the additional impact of caring adults, extra help with classwork and insight into future careers.
Volunteer Opportunities
The TeamMates Mentoring Program was founded in 1991 by Tom & Nancy Osborne in an effort to provide support and encouragement to school aged youth. The goal of the program is to see youth graduate from high school and pursue post-secondary education. To reach this goal, youth meet one hour per week with a caring adult who serves as a mentor. If you would like to become a mentor or for more information, contact Ellen Vanderloo at 319-433-1920 or visit the Mentoring section of our website!
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Iowa (BBBS) works cooperatively with the district by providing adult mentors to children. BBBS recruit, screen, train, and support the mentors. Adult mentors, along with parents/guardians, provide young people with support, counsel, friendship, reinforcement and a constructive example. For more information contact, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Iowa at 319-235-9397 or visit the Mentoring section of our website.
Are you 55 years and older?
Prime Time Volunteers is a cooperative effort of the Waterloo Community Schools and the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). RSVP assists the schools with recruitment, volunteer training and placement, and continuous contact with the volunteers. As a Prime Time member, the volunteer has access to transportation, meal allowance, and liability insurance. For more information go to the Prime Time Volunteers section of this website.
Other Opportunities…
Are you looking to volunteer your time or talents with the students, faculty, and staff of the Waterloo Community School District? For more information contact Crystal Buzza, Director of Strategic Partnerships at buzzac@waterlooschools.org or 319-433-1842.
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with the district. To become a volunteer you must submit a completed application form!
Application Procedure:
Complete the application form.
Some positions may require additional documents and is noted.
Application Process:
1. This process is a review of application and references.
2. Discussion
Applicants will be contacted by the appropriate staff person to discuss level of interest and address any questions you may have.
3. Placement
After any necessary paperwork, interviews or screenings you will receive confirmation of your placement and necessary materials (ie: maps).
4. Orientation
Expect to set up a date and time to become oriented to the building you will be volunteering in or program you will be volunteering for.
Thank you for your interest. Each completed application will remain on file.
For more information, please contact Crystal Buzza at (319) 433-1842.
