Power Lunch Program
Volunteers are recruited from major corporations and other organizations to serve as "reading partners" at a weekly "Power Lunch." In most cases, the volunteer stays with the same child until graduation from elementary school. Everybody wins because schools select children who are most "at risk" and incur no cost or administrative responsibilities; volunteers gain satisfaction from contributing to a child's improved reading skills and self-confidence; and most importantly, children who often have never been read to or been given individual attention, are started on the road to academic success and benefit from the personal attention of a caring adult role model on a regular basis. To make certain that the program functions smoothly, we hire a part-time coordinator for each school, usually a parent or part-time aide, who is trained and supervised by a professional staff member. In addition, if the school is not in very close proximity to the business we will hire busses to transport the volunteers to and from the school. We will also bring a nurse on-site at the place of business to administer a skin TB test to be in compliance with school policy.

"I have seen a big improvement in the dedication and abilities of my student involved in the Power Lunch program this year. The improvement has been significant enough that she will be awarded most improved at this years awards ceremony!"
Mr. Casavi, teacher

The Power Lunch students "are more responsible, like completing their homework." "They are motivated to participate in class discussion." Ms. Fulgencio, teacher

"He is eager to read, and I've definitely seen a great improvement in his fluency, expression and tone." Ms. Williams, teacher

She chooses "a library book to read every chance she has free time, recess." Ms. Steele, teacher

"Most (Power Lunch) students have begun to go to the library to check-out reading books to read. They also like sharing their reading with others." Mr. Gonzalez, teacher