The JEC and Jewish Family Services of Central New Jersey, in Elizabeth, joined together in a remarkable partnership. As an offshoot of the JFS Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), seniors are volunteering to work one-on-one with JEC students in an after school tutoring program. These children have been referred by their teachers and then matched with select volunteers. The goal is for the students to complete their homework, as well as acquire necessary skills in the areas of Language Arts and math. The specific programs are designed by the tutors in conjunction with classroom teachers and supervised by Shari Faleck, educational consultant to both JEC and JFS.

This after school program has been in effect for the past few months and is already producing positive results as evidenced by feedback from parents and teachers as well as volunteers and enrolled students. Additionally, volunteers are enjoying the opportunity to use their skills and contribute by helping students succeed academically. The plan is for this exciting new program to grow and expand to accommodate additional students in the future.

The RSVP matches volunteers 55 and over with meaningful opportunities throughout Union County. If you are interested in becoming a tutor, or a volunteer in other areas, please contact JFS at 908-352-8375 or email [email protected]