Volunteers Make a Difference

 

“As a student with dyslexia, I’ve always struggled with math. Working with Will has not only helped my math grade but has also taught me that asking for help is ok. He knows that math is hard for me, and he always finds a way to slip a joke in or make things more enjoyable.”

— Riley

In addition to the food & fun happening at MYC afterschool, we are blessed with volunteers who support the intellectual, physical and social development of our youth. Much of what we accomplish, even in our cramped quarters at the old Armory, is made possible by their dedication. Though April is the season for Volunteer Appreciation, we are grateful every day for the adult mentors who share their time and talent with our youth.

In December 2024, a retired middle school math teacher with over 40 years of experience in Rhode Island schools reached out, asking how he could support MYC. Having spent years tutoring locally since retiring from Nathan Bishop Middle School in Providence, Will Fritzmeier was a natural fit for our Compass Afterschool program.

 

 

Will comes into the Teen Center on Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoons. He often brings a mathematical game or challenge to engage the youth who participate in our Compass Afterschool program, and they can win a prize. His quiet, calm and steady demeanor is a perfect fit when he spends 2–3 hours tutoring middle and high school students in the General Manager’s office, providing the coaching and encouragement they need. In his volunteer application Will stated that, “[I have an] appreciation of intellectual growth as well as the energy and issues of concern for young people.”

Lisa St. Pierre, GM at the Teen Center, could not agree more. She says, “Will has a kind and gentle spirit. With everything middle schoolers have going on, he always finds a way to connect and be supportive.”

In addition to tutoring, we are blessed with volunteers who share a wide variety of interests and skills with our youth. Our well-known Meal Train volunteers prepare and deliver meals throughout the year — usually once a month — helping ensure that no one leaves MYC hungry. Others lead our Bike Club in warmer months, join in billiard games, Magic: The Gathering, or chess matches, or take part in jam sessions and skatepark activities, inspiring curious young people with dreams.

Interested in volunteering with Midcoast Youth Center & Skatepark? Learn more at Volunteer – Midcoast Youth Center