Reaching 9,000 Children in Rural Schools – Skills to Read… Power to Lead
Registration has arrived to be a SuperKids volunteer for 2010! Great Shape! Inc. is currently recruiting educators like you to volunteer in rural schools in Jamaica. SuperKids is a literacy empowerment program. The project dates are November 5-November 22, 2010. You can choose a one or two-week project.
We need teachers to volunteer their wisdom and time to help thousands of Jamaican children learn how to read at an appropriate level. As you know, reading literacy is the single most important building block to a child’s education. In the Jamaican schools that partner with Great Shape!, the literacy rate is just 40%.
In the fall of 2009, SuperKids improved literacy in seven schools in the Ocho Rios area. Sixty-five volunteers inspired kids and partnered with Jamaican teachers with a reading curriculum, book donations, computers, sports, art and music. The Jamaican Ministry of Education’s Laurel Brent-Harris says, “I love Great Shape’s holistic approach. These volunteers engage the child fully.”
SuperKids attracts volunteers from all professions; educators, computer techs, athletic coaches, students, dancers and musicians, plus folks who just love kids and believe in education. Great Shape! Co-Founder Gretchen Lee reminds us, “a child who can’t read becomes an adult who struggles in society.” However, after working with past Great Shape projects, many Jamaican schools showed an improvement in test scores. We are making a difference!
Sandals Resorts International has been a long time supporter, donating ¾ million dollars in accommodations and support. Sandals hosts volunteers at no charge in Ocho Rios, Montego Bay and Negril.
The Ministry of Education provides the infrastructure and safety for our teams. “This commitment to local families and the volunteers is a true blessing.”
Great Shape! Inc. is a non-profit that first jumped into action after Hurricane Gilbert devastated Jamaica in 1988. A group of friends from Ashland, Oregon have since created the SuperKids, 1000 Smiles, and I Care Vision programs. Volunteers from all over the United States have come together to make a difference with one love for humanity.
