Volunteer Spotlight: Sherry

Meet Sherry

How long have you been volunteering?
Sherry has been with Project Reads for one year but has volunteered within our community for many years.

Why did you decide to volunteer at The Literacy Alliance?
“Reading is the foundation of everything. As a former teacher, if a person does not have the reading skill or level of reading, they can miss out on a lot.”

Sherry found out about The Literacy Alliance through an article that she read. What stuck out to her was former COO Brian Schlichtenmyer’s name. Brian grew up around the corner from Sherry near Brentwood Elementary. Sherry read the article, saw that The Literacy Alliance needed volunteers, particularly at Brentwood Elementary, and jumped on it.

“I am a former Brentwood teacher, and I attended there. So, giving back to Brentwood is like coming full circle.”

“Reading is the foundation of everything. As a former teacher, if a person does not have the reading skill or level of reading, they can miss out on a lot.”

What has been the best part of your experience so far?
“Seeing the growth of the student. As a former Special Education teacher, you don’t always get to see that much change in such a short time. And I know it was not all because of me, but as a tutor, we got to get them started then their parents continued the process.

And I was paired with the perfect little girl. We connected so well. She was so sweet, enthusiastic, and happy to be there. She was not afraid to grow in her reading.”  

Why should others volunteer?
“I think everyone should find something to volunteer in connection with their passion or gift. My passion is reading and Brentwood.”

What would you tell others who are considering volunteering?
“I would recommend that you do your research before volunteering and find a way to incorporate it into your schedule. I loved my time at Brentwood, but unfortunately, I had work conflicts on several of my tutoring days that were out of my control. I am a behavioral consultant, and my job occasionally requires me to miss tutoring.”

Sherry and Student Mava at Brentwood Elementary.