Providing elementary school children with afterschool care
Mark’s Meadow Afterschool Program provides elementary school children with afterschool care and enrichment at Wildwood Elementary School in Amherst. It is a grass roots, non-profit program which has served the community for over 40 years as a welcoming place for children, ages 5-12, of any race, gender, religion, socio-economic background or physical or mental ability. It provides quality care in an environment where children feel safe, heard and appreciated. Mark’s Meadow’s desire is to provide space where children can play, have fun, and participate in activities that are challenging and creative. They hope to prepare the children for their future in a changing society and to promote acceptance of themselves and of others.
ENGAGEMENT DETAILS: Volunteers arrive at 2:45 pm, engage in homework support and enrichment activities until 5:30 pm and participate in the staff briefing until approximately 6 pm. Volunteers serve as group leaders who teach and provide care for the children. Leaders supervise groups at play, direct guided activities, and help children through transitions during the day. Leaders are expected to build positive, healthy relationships with the children, set clear and consistent boundaries, and have high expectations for children’s behavior. They are expected to be a model of maturity, where the children can look up to their words and actions and emulate this dignity for themselves. Volunteers join a team of dedicated leaders, engaging in fun, recreational and creative activities. Commitment is essential to achieving goals as a leader. Bus from campus: PVTA #34 or 35 to Butterfield Hall stop and go down Strong St.