Mary House began its after school program in 1997. A mother from Bosnia approached staff asking for assistance in reading one of the teacher's notes. Translating notes gradually led to tutoring children. Other families heard of the assistance, and in time the families relying on Mary House expanded to people living outside of the program, giving birth to what would become one of the most dynamic tutoring and mentorship programs in the District. Today, the program assists up to twenty students from Brookland Elementary representing countries from North, Central and South America; Europe and Africa. Our efforts are currently strengthened through the help and cooperation of Trinity College, Catholic University, American University and Georgetown. Our experience shows evidence that the fabric of our community is widely enriched not only by its inhabitants but by the dedicated efforts of those who wish to see our neighbors prosper.
The After School Program runs Monday through Thursdays. Interested volunteers are expected to serve between 2:45 and 5:30 PM to assist with setting up and cleaning out. In order to reach the program's full potential, we ask that you commit to days in which you can meet as much of the time request as possible. We are conveniently located within walking distance of the Brookland CUA Metro station. The exact location will be provided upon the beginning of your service.
A complete list of rules and expectations will be provided upon your participation in the program, but at minimal, after school volunteers will:
• Honor their committed hours and be on time to fulfill their service.
• Display proficiency in reading, writing and math and be able to convey their knowledge of these subject areas to pre-school to sixth-grade aged children.
• Possess the willingness and ability to work with others in a large-group setting.
• Possess a calm and warm demeanor to work with children and be able to independently remove yourself from the group for a short period if you cannot meet this expectation.
• Understand and follow instructions from Mary House staff as necessary.
After school volunteers become a part of a family environment and are worked into the larger picture that is the Mary House program. A couple of hours a day could go a long way toward strengthening a child's education. Should you have further questions, please contact our After School Coordinator:
Barbara Warner Phone: 202-248-8173
Otherwise, we invite you to register below and get started with your rewarding experience. Unless otherwise noted, all items are required. Your registration does not bind you to begin serving our program; it merely indicates your interest in being considered to serve. Please wait for an e-mail acknowledgement of your registration and followup communication from us to discuss your participation in greater detail.