CIS thankful for volunteers – changing lives in Brunswick County
At Communities In Schools of Brunswick County (CIS), volunteers make all the difference, both in our school-based programs and our thrift shops. CIS volunteers give tirelessly to support their community and help students in Brunswick County stay in school. It takes a special person to give their time and make a commitment to help struggling students. Community volunteers generously contribute to and support programs offered by CIS. Through CIS multi-tiered interventions, volunteers help surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life. CIS was founded on the belief that “it’s relationships, not programs that change children.” The difference our volunteers make in the life of a child is invaluable.
CIS is blessed to work with over 400 volunteers, who provided almost 2,000 hours of support to students and their families this past school year. Some work with students in tutoring and learning enrichment activities, while others donate food and supplies for student projects, events and celebrations. Lunch buddies offer a nurturing adult presence with an open ear and a caring heart. Adult and student volunteers assist with our Teen and Peer Court programs. Volunteer board members and committee members provide leadership and direction in program development, fundraising, and events.
The four CIS Thrift Shops couldn’t operate without the support of volunteers sorting and pricing donations, and helping customers. Each shop welcomes new volunteers. Volunteers give their time at CIS Thrift Shops for the sole purpose of helping Brunswick County students. CIS Thrift Shops have four locations in Brunswick County—Boiling Spring Lakes, Leland, Southport, and Sunset Beach. The shops are open from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with donations welcome during those hours. Boiling Spring Lakes and the Southport Thrift Shop are also open Sundays from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. For each dollar spent, 84 cents goes directly into student programs and services.
CIS currently provides an Action for Success program in four Brunswick County middle schools, Waccamaw School (K-8), and Supply Elementary School, incorporating Success Coaches, community volunteers, club and business partnerships to support student achievement. CIS supports Brunswick County students through tutors, mentors, Teen and Peer Court programs, 21st Century Community Learning Center Afterschool Program, and parenting education, with a primary focus on dropout prevention services. Without compassionate volunteers and community partners CIS could not meet the needs of the over 4,300 students we serve.
“We cannot do this work alone. It is through a strong partnership of CIS staff and community volunteers that we are able to effectively intervene in students’ lives and help them achieve their goals,” said CIS Executive Director Bonnie Jordan. The good that CIS does for students can be measured in improving academic grades and promotion rates. However, volunteering also has a positive impact for volunteers themselves, from enhanced emotional well-being to strengthening community connections.
As we end the current school year, the board and staff of CIS recognize and express our gratitude for every volunteer hour given to improve the lives of students in Brunswick County. Thank you for your continued support of and investment in the success of local students!
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