OTTER Program Testimonies!

(More will be added soon!)

OTTER Volunteer Spotlight: Janel Dagon

Being an OTTER volunteer is incredibly rewarding in so many ways. I marvel at how unique and special each year of service has been. At the beginning of the school year, during introductions, one of the students was too shy to speak to me. Her teacher shared her name, and I lit up and excitedly explained, “I will NEVER forget your name, because you have the same name as my son!” The little girl warmed up right away. The next time I visited, she sat right next to me. Her teacher asked if she enjoyed when I came to read, and with the biggest smile, she nodded and moved closer, eager for the story to begin. Making personal connections is half the battle to winning the children’s attention and igniting a love for reading.  More recently, I was reading and asked a general question to the group. One of the children responded with an answer that related to a book I read two weeks prior. The teacher and I were so excited that he made such a meaningful connection. This happens frequently and confirms that my OTTER reading visits are making a difference.  My greatest wish is that my efforts as a volunteer demonstrate to the children that I care about their wellbeing and their education.  It is truly an honor to spend time sharing my love of books and helping the children grow and develop foundational literacy skills.

~Janel Dagon, OTTER Volunteer since 2020

Thank you for 5 Years of Stellar Service, Janel!