Volunteer Spotlight: Karen

Helping Youth Thrive in Academics

Youth programming is a unique, essential service provided to students in our communities. Without volunteers, we would not be able to offer homework help, one-on-one mentoring, college and career readiness, and so much more to youth and teens. Every day, folks generously give their time and talents to support CommonBond residents and add to the vibrancy of our communities.

We offer many ways to volunteer, including in our Youth Homework Center. It provides kids a space to receive one-on-one homework help from CommonBond staff and volunteers.

A few years ago, Karen, long-time donor of CommonBond Communities, wanted to dip her toes into volunteering and make an even greater impact. Karen began working from home during the pandemic, and the lack of commute allowed her to fully commit to volunteering – she was ecstatic! Karen has been a volunteer at Yorkdale Townhome’s Youth Homework Center ever since and is now in her second year.

Not only is CommonBond’s mission close to Karen’s heart, but she is also extremely passionate about education. Having the opportunity to support CommonBond youth in the Homework Center was the perfect role for her. “Housing is really important, but often, people need other assistance, and I love that CommonBond provides that.”

Beyond offering the opportunity for kids to get their homework done and achieve success in school, the Homework Center also provides space for youth to feel heard and reassured in their skills and talents.

Karen says, “I’ve seen the kids grow in confidence in what they are doing. That is the most rewarding thing. Often, they know how to do the homework, but they need that extra reassurance.” Sometimes, we all need a little helping hand. CommonBond volunteers are dedicated to showing up for the youth in our communities and helping them define and achieve their own success.

When asked what Karen would say to others who are interested in volunteering with CommonBond, Karen says, “Just try it! Once I get here, I so enjoy it. I probably get more out of it than the students get out of me being there.”

Thank you to our volunteers for your dedication to CommonBond’s young learners. You are furthering our mission impact and adding to the vibrancy of our communities every day.

Interested in volunteering? Click here to learn more!